How to Deal with Autism Behaviour Problems

Last Updated on July 26, 2025 by John Hookway

You may feel stressed when autism behavior problems happen. Many parents, caregivers, and teachers have this problem too. New studies show autism affects more kids now than before.

You can make things better with simple steps. Studies show breaking tasks into small parts helps. Using pictures and giving choices also help kids do well. If you are patient and use good strategies, you will see real changes.

Key Takeaways

• Autism behavior problems like aggression, tantrums, and elopement happen often. You can manage them with the right strategies.
• Knowing the causes like sensory issues, communication problems, and changes in routine helps you stop and lower behavior problems.
• Using visual supports, giving choices, and keeping routines the same help make things calm and predictable for your child.
• Teaching replacement behaviors helps your child show what they need in a safe way. This also lowers problem actions over time.
• Stay calm and speak clearly during hard times to help your child learn better ways to handle things.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a proven therapy. It uses rewards to teach skills and lower problem behaviors well.
• Starting help early and working with a team of specialists helps your child do better and have a better daily life.
• Caregivers need to take care of themselves and build support networks. This helps them stay strong and give the best care to their child.

Autism Behavior Problems

Common Behaviors

When you deal with autism behavior problems, you may see many actions. These actions can be hard to handle. Here are some common behaviors you might notice:

Aggression

Aggression is when someone hits, kicks, bites, or throws things. This can happen if your child feels upset or cannot say what they want. More than 40% of people with autism show aggression. It is more common if they have intellectual disabilities too.

Self-Injury

Self-injury is when someone hurts themselves on purpose. This can look like head-banging, biting, or scratching. Self-injury is not safe and can slow learning and social skills. It often happens when a child feels too much stress or cannot share their needs.

Tantrums

Tantrums are sudden bursts of anger or crying. Your child may fall down, scream, or refuse to move. These outbursts can happen when routines change or when your child feels too much noise or light. Tantrums are linked to trouble with emotions and talking.

Elopement

Elopement is when a child runs or walks away from safe places. Almost half of kids with autism try to leave home, school, or public places at some time. This is very risky and can lead to getting lost or hurt.

Repetitive Behaviors

Repetitive behaviors are things like hand-flapping, rocking, or saying words over and over. These actions can help some kids feel calm or less stressed. They are not always bad, but they can stop kids from learning new things or joining group fun.

Noncompliance

Noncompliance means not following directions or rules. Your child may ignore you or not want to change what they are doing. This can make daily life harder and cause more stress for everyone.

Many autism behavior problems are linked to other issues like ADHD, anxiety, or sleep problems. These can make behaviors harder to handle.

Impact on Daily Life

Autism behavior problems can change your daily life a lot. You may feel stressed, worried, or scared when your child acts out.

Simple trips, like going to the store or park, can be hard. Some families stay home to avoid meltdowns or elopement. This can make you feel alone and give your child fewer chances to learn social skills.

Aggression and self-injury can be dangerous for your child and others. Elopement can make you worry about your child’s safety all the time.

These behaviors can also make it hard for your child to learn, make friends, or join in activities. As a caregiver, you may feel tired or overwhelmed.

Studies show parents and teachers feel more stress and worry when dealing with autism behavior problems. Family life can get harder, and you may feel alone or not supported.

You can do things to help with these problems. Learning about the behaviors and why they happen can help you cope. With the right help, you can make life better for your child and your family.

Causes and Triggers

Internal Factors

Sensory Issues

Why do sensory issues cause behavior problems in autism?
Your child might cover their ears or avoid bright lights. Some kids like certain textures. These actions happen because their brains process senses differently.

Many children with autism are very sensitive or not sensitive enough to sights, sounds, or touch. If the brain cannot block out extra noise or light, your child may feel too much or too little. This can make them have meltdowns, get aggressive, or pull away from others.

Here’s a quick look at how the brain’s wiring affects senses and behavior:

You can see these sensory differences every day. Being too sensitive to noise or touch can cause anxiety or aggression.

Kids who seek out new feelings may act out more. Even strange reactions to smells or tastes can matter, but not as much.

Communication Challenges

How do communication challenges trigger behavior problems?
If your child cannot say what they need, they get upset fast. When they cannot ask for help or tell you what is wrong, they may act out.

You might see tantrums, self-injury, or not listening. These actions are not just “bad” choices. They are ways to show feelings when words are hard. Helping your child talk or use signs can lower these problems.

Co-occurring Conditions

Many kids with autism have other problems like ADHD or anxiety. These extra issues make behavior problems more likely.

Here is what research says:

• Up to 70% of kids with autism have another mental health problem.
• ADHD and anxiety make talking and moving harder.
• Girls with both autism and ADHD or anxiety have more trouble than boys.
• ADHD makes it harder to focus and move calmly.
• These extra problems can make it take longer to get a diagnosis and make behavior worse, especially for girls.
• Repetitive behaviors and strong interests get worse with ADHD and anxiety.

External Factors

Environmental Changes

Kids with autism like routines. Sudden changes, like a new teacher or a new way to school, can cause stress. Research shows that when routines change, aggression and self-injury go up.

Telling your child about changes ahead of time helps. Using picture schedules also helps. Picture schedules show what will happen next. This makes kids less worried and helps them handle changes.

Social Demands

Crowded places or loud events can be too much for your child. Group work or parties can make them anxious or cause meltdowns.

Too much noise, bright lights, or strong smells can add to the problem. Not having a plan or expecting too much can also make things worse. Being hungry or tired can make behavior problems happen more often.

You can help by keeping routines the same, using pictures, and planning for your child’s sensory needs. Watch for signs of stress and give breaks when needed.

Practical Strategies

Prevention

You can use prevention strategies to lower the chance of autism behavior problems. Start by looking at what happens right before your child acts out. Change the environment or routine to make things easier. Here are some steps you can try:

1. Give Warnings Before Changes
   Let your child know what will happen next. For example, say, “You have five more minutes to play, then it’s time for dinner.” This helps your child get ready for transitions.
2. Add Favorite Things to Tough Tasks
   If your child dislikes brushing teeth, play their favorite song during the routine. This makes the task more fun and less stressful.
3. Offer Choices
   Give your child options, like picking which shirt to wear or which snack to eat. Choices help your child feel in control and reduce resistance.
4. Use Visual Schedules and Timers
   Show your child what comes next with pictures or a timer. Visuals make routines clear and help your child know what to expect.
5. Adjust the Environment
   Change lighting, lower noise, or add a sensory tool like a yoga ball chair. These changes can help your child feel more comfortable.
6. Set Clear Expectations
   Tell your child what you expect before starting an activity. Use simple words or pictures to explain rules.
7. Take Regular Breaks
   Plan short breaks during activities. Breaks help your child avoid sensory overload and stay calm.
8. Create a Calm Space
   Set up a quiet area where your child can go to relax if things get too loud or busy.
9. Use Positive Reinforcement
   Praise your child right away when they follow directions or use good behavior. You can use stickers, tokens, or extra playtime as rewards.
10. Work with Professionals
    If you need more help, talk to a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or another specialist. They can help you create a plan that fits your child’s needs.

Prevention works best when you stay consistent. Try to keep routines the same each day and use the same words or pictures for rules.

Replacement Behaviors

Teach your child a new, better way to meet their needs. This is called a replacement behavior. For example, if your child screams to get a snack, show them how to ask for it with words, a picture, or a gesture.

Research shows that teaching replacement behaviors works well for children with autism. When you show your child a new way to ask for help or get attention, you help them use positive actions instead of problem behaviors.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Find Out Why the Behavior Happens
  Watch your child and see what they want when they act out. Do they want attention, a break, or a toy?
• Pick a Simple, Clear Replacement
  Choose a new action that is easy for your child to do. For example, teach them to tap your arm or use a picture card instead of yelling.
• Practice the New Behavior
  Show your child how to use the new action. Practice together when things are calm.
• Reward the Replacement Behavior
  Give praise or a small reward every time your child uses the new action. Ignore the old problem behavior if it is safe to do so.
• Use the New Skill Everywhere
  Help your child use the replacement behavior at home, school, and in the community. Remind teachers and family members to look for and reward the new skill.

Teaching replacement behaviors helps your child get what they need in a safe, positive way. Over time, you will see fewer autism behavior problems and more good choices.

Response Techniques

Your response can make a big difference. Stay calm and use clear, simple steps to help your child. Clinical research shows that skill-building and proactive approaches work better than punishment.

Here are some effective response techniques:

• Stay Calm and Model Coping
  Take a deep breath and keep your voice steady. Your calm response helps your child feel safe.
• Give Choices
  Offer two safe options. For example, “Do you want to walk or skip to the car?” Choices help your child feel in control.
• Use Distraction
  Redirect your child’s attention to a favorite toy or activity. This can stop a meltdown before it gets worse.
• Set Clear Boundaries
  Remind your child of the rules in a simple way. For example, “Hands stay to yourself.”
• Use Gentle Redirection
  If your child is about to do something unsafe, gently guide them to a safer activity.
• Identify and Change Triggers
  Watch for signs that your child is getting upset. Change the environment or routine if you see a problem starting.
• Teach Emotion Regulation
  Help your child name their feelings and practice calming skills, like deep breathing or squeezing a stress ball.
• Work as a Team
  Talk with teachers, therapists, and other caregivers. Share what works and keep track of progress.
• Review and Adjust Plans
  If a strategy stops working, try something new. Keep notes on what helps your child the most.

Focus on teaching new skills and building trust. When you respond with patience and clear steps, you help your child learn better ways to handle tough moments.

Communication Tools

You can use many tools to help your child understand and express themselves. These tools make daily life easier and reduce frustration.

When your child knows what to expect and how to ask for what they need, you see fewer autism behavior problems.

Here are some proven ways to use communication tools:

1. Visual Supports
   Visual supports show your child what will happen next. You can use pictures, symbols, or written words. Visual schedules help your child follow routines and lower anxiety. You can also use visual cues like stop signs, arrows, or photos to show rules and choices.
2. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
   PECS lets your child use pictures to ask for things or share ideas. This system works well for kids who do not speak or have trouble with words. You can start with simple pictures and add more as your child learns.
3. Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs) and Apps
   Many children use tablets or special devices to talk. These tools say words out loud when your child touches a picture or button. Mobile apps can help your child ask for help, make choices, or join in group activities.
4. Contingency Maps
   Contingency maps show what happens after a behavior. You can draw or use pictures to show, “If you do this, then this will happen.” These maps help your child see the results of their actions and make better choices.
5. Gestures and Sign Language
   Simple gestures or signs can help your child share needs before they can use words. You can teach signs for “more,” “help,” or “stop” to give your child quick ways to communicate.
6. Task Cards and Step-by-Step Visuals
   Break big tasks into small steps with cards or pictures. For example, show each step for washing hands or getting dressed. This helps your child finish tasks on their own.
7. Personalized Communication Aids
   Every child is different. You may need to try different tools to see what works best. Some kids like photos, while others prefer symbols or objects. Keep tools simple and use them every day.

Use the same visual supports at home and school. This helps your child feel safe and know what to expect everywhere.

You help your child feel more confident and independent when you use these tools. You also lower stress for yourself and your family.

Structured Environments

A structured environment gives your child clear rules and routines. This makes life more predictable and less stressful. When your child knows what will happen next, they feel safe and act out less.

Here is a table showing how different strategies create structure and reduce behavior problems:

You can create structure in your home or classroom with these steps:

• Set a Daily Schedule
  Use a visual schedule to show what happens each day. Include meals, playtime, and breaks. Stick to the same order as much as possible.
• Give Clear Instructions
  Use short, simple words. Show what you mean with pictures or gestures. Repeat instructions if needed.
• Use Timers and Warnings
  Set a timer for activities. Give a warning before changing tasks. For example, say, “Five more minutes, then we clean up.”
• Create Predictable Spaces
  Set up areas for different activities, like a reading corner or a play area. Keep things in the same place so your child knows where to find them.
• Prepare for Changes
  If you need to change the routine, tell your child ahead of time. Use a picture or story to explain what will happen.

Structure helps your child feel calm and ready to learn. It also makes it easier for you to handle tough moments.

When you use structure, you see fewer autism behavior problems and more positive behaviors.

Sensory Supports

Sensory supports help your child handle sights, sounds, and feelings that can be too much. Many children with autism react strongly to noise, light, or touch. Sensory supports give your child ways to feel calm and focused.

Occupational therapists use different tools and activities to help with sensory needs. Here are some common supports:

• Weighted Vests and Compression Clothing
  These give gentle pressure and help some kids feel safe. You can use them during stressful times, like going to the store or starting a new activity.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
  Headphones block loud sounds and help your child focus. Use them in noisy places like malls or school cafeterias.
• Trampolines and Therapy Balls
  Jumping or rolling gives deep pressure and helps your child calm down. You can use these at home or in therapy sessions.
• Heavy Work Activities
  Carrying books, pushing a cart, or helping with chores gives strong input to muscles and joints. These activities help your child feel more in control.
• Body Squeezes and Hugs
  Some kids like tight hugs or being wrapped in a blanket. This can help them relax when they feel upset.
• Sensory Breaks
  Plan short breaks during the day for your child to move, stretch, or use a fidget toy. Breaks help prevent meltdowns and keep your child focused.
• Collaboration with Professionals
  Work with an occupational therapist or behavior analyst. They can help you find the right sensory supports and make a plan that fits your child.

Give sensory supports before your child gets overwhelmed. Use them on a regular schedule, not just after a problem starts.

When you use sensory supports, you help your child stay calm and ready to learn. You also lower the chance of autism behavior problems at home and in the community.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses science to help change tough behaviors. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) checks your child’s needs and makes a plan just for them.

ABA uses positive reinforcement to teach new skills and lower problem behaviors. You give rewards like praise, stickers, or favorite activities for good actions, such as using words or following directions.

If your child uses a problem behavior, you do not give attention or rewards. This makes the behavior happen less over time.

ABA therapy has clear steps:

1. You and the BCBA choose the most important behaviors to work on first.
2. The BCBA looks at what causes these behaviors and writes down what happens.
3. You use rewards your child likes, such as extra playtime or a favorite snack, to help them make good choices.
4. You teach your child new ways to talk, like using pictures, signs, or words.
5. The BCBA uses different ways to teach, like breaking tasks into small steps or practicing in real life.
6. You get a written plan called a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) that matches your child’s needs.
7. Everyone—parents, teachers, and therapists—works together to keep things the same.

ABA works best when you start early and keep sessions regular. Doing the same thing each time helps your child learn faster.

Here is a table that shows the science behind ABA:

What are the benefits of ABA for children and adults with autism?

ABA gives you many ways to help your child grow. You see better talking, social skills, and daily living. Here are some main benefits:

• ABA helps your child talk, use signs, or exchange pictures to share needs.
• You see more good behaviors because ABA rewards good choices and teaches better ways to act.
• Social skills get better with practice, like role-playing or using social stories.
• ABA helps your child become more independent by teaching self-care and daily routines.
• School skills improve with step-by-step lessons and learning plans that fit your child’s strengths.
• You get help as a parent or caregiver through training and resources, so you can help at home.
• ABA works for all ages, from toddlers to adults, and changes to fit each person’s needs.
• The therapy respects your child’s dignity and focuses on their interests.
• ABA helps your child handle anxiety and emotions by teaching coping skills.
• Early ABA leads to better growth, higher IQ, and more chances for regular school.

Research from the American Psychological Association and the National Autism Center shows that ABA brings lasting improvements in language, social skills, and independence.

When should you consider ABA for autism behavior problems?

You should think about ABA if you want a proven, personal way to help your child. Here is what to look for:

• Your child has behaviors that make daily life hard or unsafe.
• You want to build skills, not just stop problem behaviors.
• You want therapy that fits your child’s strengths, interests, and needs.
• You want a plan that uses positive reinforcement and does not use punishment.
• You want to work with certified, experienced therapists who listen to your concerns.
• You want therapy that includes your family and supports learning at home.
• You need clear goals and regular progress checks.
• You want your child to have choices and enjoy therapy activities.
• You want your child to be safe, happy, and respected.

Always pick ABA providers who care about your child’s well-being and change plans if something is not working. Therapy should feel helpful, fun, and meaningful for your whole family.

Early Intervention and Professional Help

You may wonder when to ask for professional help. Acting early can really help your child. Studies show that starting help soon leads to better results. The brain changes a lot in early childhood. If you act early, your child can learn important skills for life.

Watch for these signs that mean you should get help:

• Your child does not babble by 12 months or say words by 16 months.
• You see little eye contact, few smiles, or no response to their name.
• Your child does not point or wave by 14 months.
• You notice hand-flapping, rocking, or a need for routines.
• Your child loses words or social skills at any age.
• Your child reacts strongly to sounds, textures, or pain.
• Your child has trouble making friends or joining group play.
• You feel worried about how your child is growing or acting.

Trust yourself. If you think something is wrong, talk to your child’s doctor. Doctors check for autism at 18 and 24 months. Getting help before age 3 gives your child the best chance to grow.

Research shows early help uses the brain’s natural way to learn. Strong therapies, like ABA or the Early Start Denver Model, help kids talk, make friends, and do things on their own.

Kids who start therapy before age 4 often make big progress. Family support and personal plans make these programs work even better.

How do you work with specialists to support your child?

You do not have to do this by yourself. Specialists can help you and your family at every step. The best help comes from a team working together. Different experts make a plan that fits your child.

Here are the main specialists who can help:

• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs): They make and check behavior plans using proven ways like ABA.
• Speech-Language Pathologists: They help your child talk and understand words.
• Occupational Therapists: They help with sensory needs and daily skills.
• Behavioral Therapists: They teach new skills and help with tough behaviors.
• Psychologists and Medical Doctors: They check, diagnose, and treat other problems.
• Special Educators: They change lessons to fit your child’s needs.

These experts work as a team. They share ideas and change plans so your child learns at home, school, and in the community. You are important, too. What you notice and do each day helps your child use new skills everywhere.

Working together brings the best results. When everyone helps, your child gets steady support and keeps learning.

You can ask your doctor for names of specialists or call local autism centers. Many families see that early, team-based help lets their child grow, learn, and do well.

Support for Caregivers

Self-Care

You might feel like you have no time for yourself. Many caregivers feel stressed, tired, or even burned out.

Research from Amanda Tami, LPC, BCBA, shows that self-care is not a luxury—it is a must for your mental and physical health. When you care for yourself, you become more patient and make better decisions for your family.

You do not need hours for self-care. Short, simple routines work best. Try these ideas:

• Take a five-minute walk outside to clear your mind.
• Write in a journal for a few minutes each day.
• Listen to your favorite music while doing chores.
• Practice deep breathing or mindfulness for a few moments.
• Ask for help when you need a break.

Self-care is not selfish. Even small actions, like a cup of tea or a quick stretch, can boost your mood and energy.

Studies show that caregivers of children with autism face higher stress, anxiety, and depression than other parents.

Mindful self-care, such as short walks or breathing exercises, lowers stress and helps you feel more in control. When you look after yourself, you create a calmer home and support your child better. You also lower your risk of burnout and emotional exhaustion.

You can find resources like respite care, online support groups, and self-care plans. These tools help you build routines that fit your busy life. Remember, your well-being matters for your whole family.

Building a Support Network

You do not have to do this alone. Many parents feel isolated or overwhelmed, but building a support network makes a big difference. Start by thinking about what kind of help you need—emotional, practical, or educational.

• Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors for help with daily tasks or just to talk.
• Connect with professionals like teachers, therapists, and doctors for expert advice.
• Join local or online support groups to meet other families who understand your challenges.
• Use social media or community events to find new contacts and share experiences.
• Keep in touch with your network through regular calls, messages, or meetups.

A strong network gives you emotional support and practical tips. You can share resources, swap stories, and learn from others. This support helps you feel less alone and more confident in handling tough moments.

Building a network takes time. Start small and reach out to one person at a time. Every connection helps you and your child thrive.

Research shows that caregivers who build strong networks feel less stress and manage behavior problems better. You gain new ideas, feel more hopeful, and create a healthier environment for your family.

You can handle autism behavior problems by picking strategies that match your child.

• Offer choices and keep routines so your child feels safe and calm.
• Use visual supports, reward good actions, and try sensory tools.
• Team up with experts and check progress by setting clear goals.

Celebrate each small win, even if it seems tiny. You give hope and make change by being patient and doing things the same way. Many families notice real progress when they use these steps.

FAQ

How do you know if a behavior is related to autism?

You can look for certain patterns in your child’s actions. Watch for things like repeating the same movements, not liking changes, or reacting strongly to loud sounds. The CDC (2023) says these signs usually show up before age 3. If you notice these things, talk to your doctor and ask for a checkup.

What should you do during a meltdown?

Try to stay calm and speak in a gentle voice. Take your child to a quiet and safe place. Give them a favorite toy or a sensory tool to help them feel better. The University of Missouri (2021) found that calm places help kids get over meltdowns faster.

Can you prevent aggressive behavior in autism?

Yes, you can help stop aggression by keeping routines the same, letting your child make choices, and teaching new ways to talk. A 2022 study from Vanderbilt University showed that using visual schedules and giving rewards can cut aggressive outbursts by 40% in kids with autism.

What if your child does not respond to strategies?

If your child does not get better, try a different plan or ask a specialist for help. Sometimes, health problems or other conditions can affect behavior. Johns Hopkins Medicine (2023) says it is best to work with a team for hard cases.

How do you handle public outbursts?

Get ready before you leave home. Pack snacks, toys, or headphones. If your child starts to have a meltdown, go to a quiet spot. Use easy words to explain what is happening. Many parents use a “calm kit” with sensory items for emergencies.

Do children outgrow autism behavior problems?

Some behaviors change as your child gets older, but many kids still need help. Early help works best. The National Institutes of Health (2022) says that kids who get therapy before age 4 have 60% fewer serious behaviors later.

Where can you find more help or resources?

You can reach out to local autism centers, school counselors, or national groups like Autism Speaks. Many groups give free guides, support groups, and classes. Check their websites for more information and contact details.