Recognize The Sensory Triggers

It is a known fact that many Aspergians are very sensitive to certain external stimuli and may react negatively to stimuli which would not so adversely affect their neurotypical peers.  Such stimuli include loud noises as well as certain colors, aromas, and textures.  A common irritant is the flicker and low-pitched hum of a flourescent light bulb.  Environment is an important factor in Aspergian behavior.  When evaluating a particular behavioral anomaly, such as a temper tantrum, self-stimulation, or other inappropriate behavior pattern, it is important to consider the following questions:

1. When and under what circumstances do we observe a behavioral anomaly most frequently and/or in its most extreme form?  Consider the following factors:

• Environment
• Size of the room
• Number of people present
• Noise level and type of noise
• Why we were there at the time
• What else was going on

2. Was there another incident or situation preceding the current incident?

3. What was our physical state at the time of the incident?

4 Did the place or situation have a history for us (such as the doctor's office where we had a flu shot or the mall where the fire alarm sounded)?

5. What were our expectations at the time?

6. Were there any unexpected changes?

Conversely, it is also very important to consider these very same environmental factors when we feel and perform at our best.  We want to recreate these environmental states for optimal performance.