Why are so many adults with autism experiencing abuse?

Written on 16th Jun 2014 by Sylvia Lowery

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The National Autistic Society released shocking statistics this week 41% of autistic adults often feel lonely; 36% don’t leave the house most days; 44% stay at home because they fear abuse or harassment; and 49% report being abused by someone they thought of as a friend.

These shocking statistics are being highlighted at a time when the government has set in place a new  Care Act 2014. The NAS argues that this act has changed the threshold for care eligibility. A vulnerability to abuse will mean the individual will no longer qualify for support.

Why are individuals with autism vulnerable to abuse?

Trusting – those on the spectrum are naturally trusting and believe what people tell them.

Lonely – 41% of adults on the spectum feel lonely. It’s easy to be taken in by someone who wants to harm you if you crave company.

Mind blindness – Some individuals with autism find it hard to imagine what others are thinking and feeling. It is hard to imagine others are planning harm when you stuggle to do this.

Anxiety – This can lead to behaviour that is seen as agressive when it is really just an outworking of anxiety.

Agression – Individuals with autism may not pick up on social clues when they are upsetting others. This can lead to bullying.

Poor understanding of autism – Employers may not understand autism and may misunderstand the actions of those on the spectrum.

What can be done?

Social skills and personal safety training – This should be provided for all individuals who have a diagnosis of autism.

Friendship groups – A group of friends can alleviate lonliness and prevent an individual on th espectrum from being taken in by those who would harm them.

Help to manage anxiety can help with managing agression during a meltdown or times of anxiety.

Emploment training – Employers should make reasonable adjustments for individuals with a disability. It is important that employers and colleagues are given the correct support so that they can have a better understanding of autism. It is also impotant to provide an intermediary who can help with diffiulties than can arise in the workplace.

More autism awareness that will help the general population to have a better understanding of autism.

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