Exam season often causes tension and anxiety in students, but it can exacerbate these symptoms in those with autism. Exam pressure can be especially difficult to handle, especially when combined with sensory sensitivity issues and communication difficulties. Yet just like any other student, autistic students can also flourish during this time with the right assistance and understanding. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Autistic people frequently struggle with social interaction and communication. As well as with restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests, they may also have different ways of paying attention and learning.
Talk About the Meaning of Exams: Social norms and expectations contribute to the pressure associated with exams. We have to challenge the idea that a person’s exam scores determine their entire future. It is important to emphasise to young people in general, not just those who are autistic, that exams are merely a means, not the end goal. Whether they succeed or fail, they are still valuable as people.
Maintain Routine, Establish a Calm and Supportive Environment, and Reduce Demands. Stability and predictability are particularly reassuring to people with autism. In the midst of exam chaos, sticking to routines you know work can help reduce stress. Furthermore, reducing environmental stressors and meeting sensory needs can have a big impact on exam performance and well-being. Establish a peaceful and encouraging environment at home and school during exam times. For instance, reduce noise and sensory overload by creating quiet study areas, using noise-cancelling headphones, or playing relaxing music when necessary if your child has sensory challenges related to sound. Another example would be assisting them in efficiently managing their time and lowering their anxiety related to deadlines, think about implementing visual timetables or timers.
Aim to Explain and Manage Anxiety: During exam season, in particular, anxiety can be crippling. Perfectionist tendencies and times of overstimulation can make anxiety worse for autistic students. Personalised coping strategies are crucial, whether they involve sensory accommodations, relaxation techniques, or breaking down tasks into smaller manageable chunks. Reassurance and affirmation are essential for overcoming perfectionism and fostering confidence.
Celebrate Achievements and Progress: No matter how small, acknowledge and celebrate achievements and progress. Encourage a growth mindset and resilience in them by acknowledging and validating their efforts and accomplishments. Stress that mistakes are chances for learning and development to foster a positive attitude toward learning and self-improvement.
Leading Up to Exams: Just like with the study period, establishing a disciplined schedule for the days leading up to exams helps students feel secure and stable. Keeping a healthy balance between study sessions and enough sleep, exercise, and downtime is crucial. Furthermore, easing test anxiety and guaranteeing a smooth testing experience can be achieved by being open and honest about exam schedules and providing helpful assistance. For autistic students to understand what is expected of them during exam time, there must be clear communication. Provide and instructions in great detail. You can choose to discuss this with your child’s teachers to make the exam arrangements known in advance and avoid any surprises.
In conclusion, it takes compassion, acceptance, and flexibility to help autistic students through the demands of exam season. By acknowledging their unique challenges and providing tailored support, we can empower these individuals to navigate exams with confidence and resilience.
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Seray Soyman is working as a Clinical Psychosexologist within the Willingness team, providing psychosexual education and sexual support sessions, as well as delivering training and workshops. She has a master’s degree in Clinical Psychosexology from the Sapienza University of Rome. Seray’s research interests are sexual communication, sex-positive behaviour, LGBTQIA+ studies, and sexual health.
References
McCann, L. (2020, September 7). 5 Ways to support Autistic Students through Exams. https://reachoutasc.com/5-ways-to-support-autistic-students-through-exams/