Athlete with Autism Spectrum Disorder

They often feel uncomfortable in a group, or in some place, or when routines change (drgua dist. kar). Behaviors that are characterized as stereotypical often interfere with the functioning of the individual or the environment. These behaviors have an important function for a person with autism – they soothe him, amuse him; but they can make it difficult and prolong the performance of the activities in which the person is involved. The trainer should adjust the approach in the work so that it respects the above-mentioned characteristics. For example, to use multiple channels of communication and obvious means when working with an athlete with autism. He should respect his peculiarities, his fears. As well as to learn when to allow his athlete to express stereotypical behaviors, and when and in what way to limit it so that risky behaviors do not occur.

He must learn how to recognize situations in which the athlete feels uncomfortable and overcome them. Through the training process, the coach and the athlete get to know each other, develop a relationship of trust, and learn from each other. A sensitive coach (with the help of family, therapists and other important people from the athlete’s environment) will learn when his athlete is satisfied and when problems are possible. They will also learn to prevent unwanted behaviors or react to them before the behavior escalates into risky behavior.

People with autism feel insecure in new situations (environment, people, tasks…). There is a whole range of treatments for people with autism, but each one in its basis respects certain principles (consistency, familiarity, certainty, stability, permanence, sequence of events).

Care should be taken not to give excessive explanations that would further confuse the athlete.