SOS Aggression – What it is and how to deal with it

Mini-guides to challenging behaviours in autism spectrum disorders

Matteo Maccione

Book preview

Product: Book

Trim size in cm: 15x21cm

Pages: 96

ISBN: 9788859045441

Publication date: 01/03/2026

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This volume offers practical, easy-to-apply strategies to prevent and reduce aggressive behaviours in children with autism, actively involving parents, caregivers, teachers and educators. Drawing on key international frameworks, including the DSM-5-TR and the ICF bio-psycho-social model, the book views aggression as a form of communication—an expression of a need, a difficulty or a state of distress.

A concrete support for adapting environments, communicating effectively during crisis moments and fostering a calmer, more supportive atmosphere at home, at school and in everyday life.

Contents
Presentation by Antonio Narzisi
Introduction
The flowchart for orientation
Initial considerations

ANTICIPATE
1. Preventing aggressive behaviours
When aggressive challenging behaviours occur
Specific moments in which aggressive behaviours may occur

ADDRESS
2. Preventing and safely managing aggressive crises in children
Stay calm
Use clear language
Ensure safety
Reduce sensory stimuli
Support self-regulation
Physical containment

ANALYSE
3. Observe the type of behaviour
Verbally aggressive behaviour
Aggressive behaviour towards objects and the environment
Aggressive behaviour towards people
Identify the function of the behaviour
Analyse the situation

APPLY
4. Strategies to prevent aggressive behaviours
Teach alternative behaviours
Reinforce appropriate behaviour
Support communication of distress
Help the child to relax

Glossary
Appendix
Emotion communication cards
ABC chart
Daily scatter plot
Weekly scatter plot
Emotion thermometer
Bibliography and recommended readings

Mini-guides to challenging behaviours in Autism Spectrum Disorders

These mini-guides are practical and accessible tools designed to help parents, teachers and professionals address challenging behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder. Each volume is based on a key premise: behind every behaviour lies a need, a difficulty or a way of communicating that can be understood and supported. The series offers concrete strategies, practical activities and clear guidance that can be immediately applied in everyday life, at home and at school. A resource designed to reduce stress, improve well-being and create more peaceful and inclusive environments.

STRUCTURE OF THE VOLUMES

In each book you will find:

Introduction to the subject covered in this volume

A visual summary of the steps to follow and the specific pages in the book per each topic

Strategies to put into practice

Tables and summaries to help you sum up the topic effectively, along with tips to follow

THE VOLUMES

SOS FOOD SELECTIVITY

Mini guides to problem behaviours in autism spectrum disorders Elena Danna, Elena Martinelli, Costanza Anglesio A practical guide to understanding and addressing food selectivity in children with autism spectrum disorder. This book sets out a step-by-step approach comprising sensory activities, behavioural strategies and practical advice to help children engage with food, increase their tolerance and improve their independence at mealtimes. The suggestions are organised by type of difficulty and designed to be adapted to each child’s individual needs, actively involving parents, teachers and professionals. Find out more!

Leaf through some pages of this book that have been translated into English to facilitate your evaluation of the product:

SOS AGGRESSION

Mini guides to challenging behaviours in autism spectrum disorders Matteo Maccione A practical guide to understanding and managing aggressive behaviour in children with autism. This book offers practical strategies for preventing and reducing aggression, suggesting ways to adapt the environment, intervene during crises and communicate effectively. Through activities and practical guidance, it helps to create more predictable and reassuring environments, promoting the child’s well-being and reducing stress for the whole family. Find out more!

Leaf through some pages of this book that have been translated into English to facilitate your evaluation of the product:

THE AUTHORS

Elena Danna, speech therapist. Elena Martinelli, speech therapist. Costanza Anglesio, speech therapist. Matteo Maccione, pedagogist.

Thematic Areas

Disability and autism > Autism and Asperger's syndrome
Disability and autism