Expert: James Michael Roan - 11/28/2009

Question
Since my autistic son turned 10 about 6 months ago, we have seen an escalation in aggression and SIBs. We have tried different medications with not much luck of significantly reducing the problem. Could hormones be playing a part in this, and do kids lose the aggression/SIBs as they get older? Can it also help to bring out more language? Curious about your thoughts on this. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Candy;

Please keep in mind that at no time am I diagnosing anything nor am I ruling out any potential condition, just providing guidance and direction.

Yes, it could be hormones. It's hard to tell. This can a positive thing during puberty, that brings with it an increased need to be like everyone else. If this is the case, then communication should increase as well.

Kind regards,
James


Disclaimer:

While James Michael Roan has attempted to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, the information is provided in good faith without any express or implied warranty. The purpose of this web site is to provide information to families with children, teens, and adults with an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental delay. James Michael Roan does not prefer any one organization to another, and it is not responsible for the information listed on an organization's web site, or any disseminated information either verbal or written. Please be advised we are not giving medical advice and that circumstances can dictate different treatments. If these issues affect you or your loved ones you should seek professional advice. This site is operated for informational purposes only. At no time will James Michael Roan attempt to diagnose or dismiss a potential diagnosis over the Internet. We hope that you find our resources useful.


Bio

James Roan is a certified school psychologist who has been consulting in the areas of autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and learning difficulties in the United States and in Ireland for over ten years (http://www.jamesroan.com). James earned his M.Ed. in School Psychology and M. Ed. in Adult Education and receives ongoing post graduate training in autism at the University of Washington’s Autism Center. James Roan has traveled to Galway, Limerick, Mayo, Clare, Dublin, Cork, Waterford, and other cities and counties across Ireland assessing children and adults, and consulting with solicitors (lawyers) in defense of children with disabilities. James Roan was the consulting assessment professional responsible for many of the autism and AD/HD screening tools and other content for Access Special Needs.Com. James Roan consulted with the graduate department of the Waterford Institute of Technology in Waterford Ireland in the development of their graduate program for the certification of private autism tutors. James has conducted formal assessments of students in the Autism Unit in the Claddagh National School in County Galway Ireland.