Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | Elopement in Children with ASD – Case Presentation and Prevention Strategies |
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| Contribution code | D2.015 |
| Authors | |
| Form of presentation | Poster |
| Topic |
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| Abstract |
Aims Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) exhibit specific traits that make their communication with the world more challenging. They are significantly more vulnerable, exhibit less self-protective behaviors, have difficulies accurately assessing situations and potential consequences, and struggle to interpret social signals. Behaviors such as elopement are common and fall under challenging behaviors often associated with socio-communicative deficits. Studies indicate that 49% of children with autism have engaged in elopement at least once after the age of four — a rate nearly four times higher than in typically developing children. Furthermore, 26% of these children have been absent long enough to cause serious concern, putting themselves at risk of potential physical harm or other adverse outcomes. Methods An analysis of elopement cases in children on the autism spectrum shows that, in most instances, this behavior is goal-oriented—aimed at accessing preferred items or activities, avoiding undesired objects or tasks, or seeking sensory stimulation. We present two clinical cases of children with ASD from different age groups who are dependent on external assistance and care in their daily lives. Both children placed themselves in potential danger by leaving a safe and controlled environment or the supervision of their caregiver. Data from a development assessment and results from a Bulgarian version of the Elopement Patterns and Caregiver Strategies Survey are presented. Results and Conclusions We propose preventive measures aimed at reducing instances of elopement in children with ASD, strategies for managing already risky situations, and methods for mitigating the consequences of such behaviors. |