Adolescence for autistic young people brings unique physical, social, and emotional changes that require proactive support and clear communication. Physically and mentally, they become different people, and socially they enter uncharted waters of friendships, relationships and unspoken rules. Add in the impact of wider transitions, and it is hardly surprising that many experience mental health difficulties. Written by an autistic author to tackle this problem, Autism and Adolescence offers a complete guide to growing up for the parents and caregivers of autistic youngsters.
Harriet Axbey interweaves specific issues of puberty – physical and emotional changes, and how they may be experienced differently by autistic people – with the wider transitions that occur as a person moves away from childhood toward independence. Issues of friendships, relationships and school are not overlooked, especially with regard to anxiety and avoidance, and all topics are tackled ‘head-on’ in clear, literal, autism-friendly terms.