Autism is a condition which affects the ability of the teenager to communicate and deal with normal social situations, also difficulties are encountered with emotional control.

During the teen age, or the age of puberty the youngster is having a difficult enough time, coping with the change of growing into an adult, like hormonal changes, unstable  or mixed up emotions, seeking a personal identity, so the onset of autism can be a very stressful situation for the young teen to deal with.

There are different levels of autism, one which seemingly is not so apparent and another more severe form which causes great difficulty for the teenager.

The teen who suffers from the less severe form of autism is often referred to as a high-functioning autistic teen, and they can attend school classes quite normally, involve themselves in usual activities, and although they may suffer from a few social difficulties, cannot be readily distinguished from other teens.

But for the teen who suffers from severe autism then a more difficult time will be experienced, very often individual care and the attendance at a special school is needed, the majority of severely autistic teens cannot look after themselves and rely on caregivers for their basic requirements.

Problems Associated with Severe Autism in the Teen.

n  Because the teen suffers from communication problems, then he/she has to be taught from first principles, they cannot learn new situations by experience as can other teenagers.

n  Proper behavioral instruction is necessary.

n  The inability to engage in normal social activities can be traumatic and cause the teen to disengage from any outside occasions.

n  For parents or caregiver it can be a very difficult, full time job looking after a severely autistic teenager.

Again for parents with an autistic teenager there are often many outside support groups to help with the affected teenager, the local doctor or health worker can give much advice on this subject.

Also in many locations it is mandatory for schools to provide a service for autistic students and other teens who maybe having mental development problems.

It is wise for any parent of an autistic teen who has the ability to attend school, to discuss the situation with the relevant school authorities, so that the transition between home and school can proceed with as few difficulties as possible, so giving the autistic teen as much support and help at this traumatic time in his/her life.

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