The Struggles of Families Coping with Violent Autism

😔Autism is often a hidden disability that affects around 120,000 young people in England.

😰Families coping with violent autism face constant fear and uncertainty, never knowing when the next violent outburst will occur.

😢The size and strength of autistic children can make their violent behavior particularly damaging and dangerous.

😡Over half of children on the autistic spectrum display aggression or violence towards their families.

😞Many families struggling with violent autism feel failed by local authorities and a lack of support services.

How common is violent autism?

—More than half of children on the autistic spectrum display aggression or violence towards their families.

What challenges do families face when coping with violent autism?

—Families live in constant fear and uncertainty, never knowing when the next violent outburst will occur. The size and strength of autistic children can make their violent behavior particularly damaging and dangerous.

Are there enough support services available for families with children who have violent autism?

—No, many families feel failed by local authorities and a lack of support services, leading to a lack of resources and help when it is most needed.

What impact does violent autism have on families' everyday lives?

—Families struggle with the physical and emotional toll of dealing with violent outbursts. They often have to make adjustments to their living environment, including installing locks and bars on windows, to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

What needs to change to better support families with children who have violent autism?

—There needs to be a system in place that identifies the needs of autistic children and provides proactive support and services. Families require resources and assistance that are readily available, rather than waiting until they are in crisis before receiving help.

00:01Autism is a hidden disability, affecting around 120,000 young people in England.

01:43Families coping with violent autism face constant fear and uncertainty.

03:05Autistic children often display aggression or violence towards their families.

09:12There is a lack of support and services available for families with children who have violent autism.

12:56The current system is failing families, and changes are needed to provide proactive support and resources.