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Breaking the Chains: Why Restraints on Autistic Individuals are Harmful and How We Can Do Better

Restraints on autistic individuals are harmful because they can cause physical and emotional trauma, reinforcing feelings of fear, isolation, and helplessness. Instead of addressing the root causes of distress, restraints ignore the individual's need for understanding and respectful communication, ultimately hindering their ability to express themselves effectively.

Breaking the Chains: Why Restraints on Autistic Individuals are Harmful and How We Can Do Better

Autism is a spectrum, and every individual experiences it uniquely. For some, communication is not verbal—it’s non-verbal, and it can be a constant struggle to connect with others in the way that is considered “typical.” This is especially true for nonverbal individuals with autism who cannot express themselves using words. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t have thoughts, feelings, or desires. They hear everything, understand much more than we often assume, and feel pain, fear, and confusion just like anyone else. One of the most disturbing practices in the treatment of people with autism—particularly those who are nonverbal—is the use of restraints. These physical restrictions can be incredibly harmful, both physically and emotionally, and cause long-lasting trauma.


The Harm of Physical Restraints


The use of restraints—whether they’re physical, mechanical, or chemical—is often seen as a way to control behavior, but it is a short-sighted approach that doesn't take into account the true needs of the individual. For nonverbal autistic individuals, especially those who are unable to advocate for themselves in the moment, restraints can be traumatizing. Restraints don’t address the root cause of the behavior and often escalate feelings of fear and helplessness. Not only does this reinforce the idea that their behavior is "wrong" or "inappropriate," but it also reinforces the belief that their pain and needs are invisible.


What many fail to realize is that nonverbal individuals with autism understand everything happening around them. The notion that they cannot comprehend their environment or the actions of others is a misconception. They may not speak, but they hear and process what is going on around them. Forcing them into a physically restrictive state or punishing them for things beyond their control only adds to their sense of isolation, distress, and trauma. This trauma can have long-term effects, including increased anxiety, a diminished sense of self-worth, and a lack of trust in others, including caregivers and support systems.


The Power of Communication


Just because someone is nonverbal doesn’t mean they cannot communicate. In fact, many nonverbal individuals with autism are able to express themselves through alternative communication methods. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools such as electronic devices, communication boards, and speech-generating devices allow people to express their needs, desires, and frustrations in a way that is both empowering and effective.

AAC tools are a game-changer, but they require patience, understanding, and time to master. They give individuals the means to communicate their thoughts, make decisions, and participate in the world on their terms. As a society, it’s crucial that we create environments that support and encourage these forms of communication, rather than relying on antiquated and harmful practices like restraints.


How We Can Be Better


So how can we do better as caregivers, educators, and society? It starts with recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their communication style. For nonverbal autistic individuals, it’s important to approach them with patience and respect. Rather than assuming they cannot understand, we need to listen, observe, and find ways to empower them to express themselves.


Here are a few ways we can be better allies:


  1. Respect Their Autonomy: Always ask permission before touching or moving someone. Consent is important, especially for individuals who may not be able to verbally express discomfort or resistance.


  2. Listen to Their Communication: Whether it's through gestures, eye contact, or the use of communication devices, pay attention to the signals they are giving. Every individual communicates in a way that works for them, and we need to be willing to understand and interpret their unique forms of communication.


  3. Provide Alternative Forms of Communication: Support nonverbal individuals with autism in learning and using AAC devices. These devices allow them to have a voice and feel heard. Don’t wait for them to “fit into a box” of what is considered “normal” communication. Understand that their method of communication is valid.


  4. Create Safe, Supportive Environments: Instead of relying on restraints when behaviors become challenging, focus on creating an environment where individuals feel safe and supported. This includes reducing sensory overload, creating calming spaces, and using positive behavioral interventions that focus on teaching skills and building trust.


  5. Educate and Raise Awareness: The more we learn about autism, especially the nonverbal spectrum, the more we can create inclusive environments that are truly supportive. We need to challenge the harmful stereotypes that prevent us from seeing the full humanity of autistic individuals.


A Call to Action


Restraints are a damaging practice that doesn’t reflect the dignity or humanity of individuals with autism. By shifting our mindset and using more compassionate, communicative approaches, we can create a world where nonverbal individuals with autism can feel heard, understood, and respected. Their struggles are real, but they are not helpless. They deserve our patience, our respect, and our willingness to do better.


The next time you’re working with or supporting a nonverbal individual, remember: They hear you, they understand you, and they deserve a chance to communicate in their own way. Let’s stop seeing them as “silent” and start listening. Let’s create a world where everyone’s voice—no matter how it’s expressed—matters.


 

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