In episode 5 of our School Resource Officer (SRO) series, we explore how to better understand and support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental conditions. ASD is a developmental disability that persistently affects how a person communicates and interacts with the world around them, and is diagnosed in 1 in 50 people in the U.S.
As an SRO, you have the opportunity to model respect for behavioral differences through your interactions with these students. In this video, you’ll learn to identify the signs of ASD and other developmental disabilities, understand their potential behavioral characteristics, and discover effective strategies for de-escalating conflict and providing support. English and Spanish subtitles are available to enhance your viewing experience.
Series Description
School Resource Officers (SROs) are present in many communities across the country. SROs must be youth advocates, educators, and protectors of all students in the schools they serve. This video series helps SROs consider the way students think, how to connect with them, how to break down barriers to communication, and how to become a successful presence in their school.
The SRO video series is produced in partnership with Katherine Schweit, JD, at Schweit Consulting and Rocket Media Group.
Series Playlist (6 Episodes)
Transcript
Narrator: Just as we need to respect each other’s cultural differences, we also need to respect our behavioral differences, including those with neurological differences who fall on the Autism Spectrum. Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a developmental disability that persistently affects how a person communicates and socially interacts with the world around them. This may include difficulty reading social cues, sensory sensitivities, difficulty with change, and obsessive behaviors such as repetitive movements. When seemingly inappropriate behavior surprises you, consider ASD as a possible root cause. Remember, their behaviors are part of who they are, not something they choose.
Learning the signs of ASD and other developmental conditions will help you understand how to support these students. Students with ASD might not reply to their name or verbal commands. They may avoid eye contact and have poor language skills. They may be fidgety or engage in repetitive physical movements. and struggle with any kind of change. Some may be overwhelmed by sirens and other noises – or even a police uniform. Others might reach towards a badge, handcuffs, or even a gun without understanding how this may feel threatening to an officer. Those with impaired language reception may not follow directions and instead ignore commands to stop or walk away. Some might seek to mirror behaviors they’ve observed as an attempt to blend in. This is called “camouflaging.” A student might, for example, reach for a hug when it’s not okay or safe to do so.
ASD is a complex disorder that affects 1 in 50 people in the U.S. Students with ASD are often targeted by bullies and are six times more likely to have interactions with law enforcement. You’re not a trained psychologist, but you are a trained observer. Be on the lookout for the behavioral characteristics you’ve learned. Try these proven tactics to help de-escalate conflicts and support students with ASD.
Be patient and give the student space; use simple statements, provide instructions one at a time, and allow plenty of time for the student to process and respond. Reassure the student that you are there to help; be alert to the signs of increased frustration and eliminate the source. Most importantly, avoid quick movements and loud noises, and do not touch them unless absolutely necessary. Take the time to learn more about ASD, and remember, how you support a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental conditions can be a model for other students and faculty at your school. See you next time.