Introduction
Going to the doctor can be a very stressful experience for people with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and their carers. This booklet provides reasons why this experience may be difficult for a person with an ASD and suggests strategies that can be used to help improve the situation.
Throughout this booklet the terms autism and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) are used to include Asperger syndrome and high functioning autism (HFA).
Possible triggers at the Doctor
Fear of the unexpected
This may be due to the fact that in most cases it is not known exactly what a doctor will do. The unstructured time in the waiting room and the other patients present can be difficult for a
person with an ASD. The unfamiliarity of the consultation room and equipment used can seem quite daunting.
Alternatively, negative experiences from the past and associations with pain can influence the future associations and fear of the experience of a person with an ASD.
Going to the doctor can be a very stressful experience for people with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and their carers. This booklet provides reasons why this experience may be difficult for a person with an ASD and suggests strategies that can be used to help improve the situation.
Throughout this booklet the terms autism and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) are used to include Asperger syndrome and high functioning autism (HFA).
Possible triggers at the Doctor
Fear of the unexpected
This may be due to the fact that in most cases it is not known exactly what a doctor will do. The unstructured time in the waiting room and the other patients present can be difficult for a
person with an ASD. The unfamiliarity of the consultation room and equipment used can seem quite daunting.
Alternatively, negative experiences from the past and associations with pain can influence the future associations and fear of the experience of a person with an ASD.
DISCLAIMER
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information sent out does not imply that Autism South Africa underwrites or endorses any particular therapy, intervention, method or medication. Autism South Africa assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information provided herein.