bullying Archives - New Horizons Wellness Services

Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder face higher bullying rates than peers, often due to social challenges, ADHD, or communication difficulties, highlighting the need for targeted support and interventions. A study based on information collected from 920 parents suggest an estimated 46.3% of adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were victims of bullying, substantially higher than the national prevalence estimates of 10.6% for the general adolescent population. The rates of perpetration of bullying (14.8%) and victimization/perpetration (8.9%, i.e., those who perpetrate and are victimized), were about equivalent to national estimates found among typically developing adolescents. The results indicated that victimization was related to having non-Hispanic ethnicity, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, lower social skills, some form of conversational ability, and more classes in general education. The study indicated that "future interventions should incorporate content that addresses the core deficits of adolescents with ASD, which limits their verbal ability to report bullying incidents." The study abstract is available at http://tinyurl.com/8jdt2q4 We offer social skills group as well as counseling/therapy for children with ASD to help cope with bullying. If you or someone you know would like more information contact our office at 503-352-0240. Frequently Asked Questions Are adolescents with autism more likely to be bullied than their peers? Yes. Studies show that nearly half of adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience bullying, which is significantly higher than the general adolescent population. What factors increase the risk of bullying for teens with ASD? Risk factors include co-occurring ADHD, lower social skills, limited conversational ability, more time in general education classes, and certain demographic factors. Awareness of these can help guide support strategies. How can my child with ASD cope with bullying? Social skills groups and counseling can help children with ASD develop coping strategies, improve social interactions, and learn ways to handle bullying effectively in school and social settings. Can therapy help my child report bullying incidents more effectively? Yes. Counseling and skill-building programs can support adolescents with ASD in improving communication skills, which makes it easier for them to report bullying and advocate for themselves. How can I get support for my child who is being bullied? At New Horizons Wellness Services, we offer social skills groups and counseling for children with ASD. Contact us at 503-352-0240 to learn more about individualized support options.