I think we all have the same issues as far as the video games go. For our guys it is much easier for them socially in a video game then irl. I would definitely look into some type of social skills group. We belong to one and he actually looks forward to it. Also see if there is some other type of autism support groups that do activities together, bowling, zoo autism fundraising etc. b/c sometimes the kids in the group click. As far as the medication goes, I think once you have him re-evaluated and know what is going on, then I would worry about the medication. My son has tried several different meds. and some work,some didn't and one worked for a while and then it stopped working. It may have to be trial and error to see what works best for him.

Yes, it is hard. My 14yr old loves online gaming and videos. When he loses the privilege as a consequence (even knowing full well) it's traumatic. But I hate to say it, consistency is key. We have had those times when we were afraid neighbors might call the police over his murderous screams, or we might have to take him to the hospital... Luckily we have avoided that. Meds are trial and error and our systems can become desensitized over time. We had a very brief, negative experience and don't use them. I was never on the holistic bandwagon but dietary suggestions from our neurologist have been helpful. For us, limiting gluten levels his moods a bit and limited dairy benefits his stomach issues. We also use oils: lavender blends for stress and anxiety, peppermint for headaches. My best advice is that YOU are in control of his care and should be heard. If you don't feel like that's happening, get another Dr and make sure they treat patients on the spectrum. Also, behavior therapy by licensed pros can be helpful, but not as effective once they are teens. Peer groups thru Easter Seals helped Eli socially. Interacting with kids like him was a huge boost for him. Just things to consider, from one teen parent.

@A MyAutismTeam Member: Scarcity of friends is a real issue for our kids. When kids reach age of 9-10 y/o they become less accepting, less forgiving, more merciless. Girls and boys move away to different camps, so if in his 1-2 grades my son was showered by 'maternal' attention of girls-classmates, it stopped abruptly in the 3rd grade.

Are there any social groups managed by psychologists for kids who have problems making friends in your area? My son attended such group a few years ago and got some human interaction with peers under guidance of a professional. They all were happy leaving those sessions.Those are group sessions, so they are less expensive, and sometimes covered by insurance.
The place that he visits now for counseling has an art group for young adults. I observed in the waiting room that some friendships are growing, car pooling, etc.

The other option are school clubs. For instance, our high school has a huge variety of clubs to accommodate 4,000 students, and many clubs are applicable for kids with unique strikes and are inclusive. Perhaps, a school social worker or psychologist could recommend you some kids who are friendly to your son at school, and you could try to approach their parents about a play date.

On the other hand, it's better to avoid some teens who could pretend being friendly and take an advantage.

My son had a game buddy, a classmate also being entertained by SpEd, who he considered his friend. Last fall they moved away from each other, and although, my son tried a few times to re-establish their friendship based on a common interest to video gaming, he could not tolerate his former buddy's behavior anymore. Perhaps, hormones create different kaleidoscopic patterns..
Cheers, LK

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A MyAutis...

Hello as I've found myself a single mom with teenage boys and one who is 22 even without them being on the spectrum these times are tough they are trying to become men as far as the hitting that is tough make it known a chart works great knowing what is expected and if not done the consequences as well. And yes discuss with the doc maybe he needs different meds sometimes your body becomes immune to the medication. Good luck

@A MyAutismTeam Member: I joined this group when my son turned 13.5 looking for an advice about a psychologist. I got some names and still running for support and advice. The problem with A-teens it's impossible to find out when it's a typical adolescent's behavior, and when it's A-influence (ADHD, ADD, ASD, etc) I'm going to try medications on my teenager and getting input from parents from the MyAutismTeam. You could not rely on the medical part, because each child is unique, and MD should help with navigating a pharmaceutical ocean and find a proper med/dosage on the base of observations from parents/ patient/ research studies. However, you would get so much support, encouragement, and understanding from the parents/grandparents on MAT, that it will fuel your engines to move ahead and find the best for your son. And if the doctor is sloppy and not really caring about the patient, only about the payment, indicate it to him/her, push him from his professional hibernation or take a patient's chart and move on (if you have another option.) Good Luck and Welcome to MAT! Cheers, Lana K

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A MyAutis...