My autistic brother can be irrational....?!?!?!?

Question

My bro whose autistic can be really ridiculous at times. Like, he asked if he could call our mom to see if he could chew gum. I said no, but called her for him and she said no cuz of his braces and then he wanted to call back to ask the SAME question, and I said no and he kept asking me and I kept saying no then I looked like the bad guy. Then he woke up our grandpa at 9 pm to make him mac n cheese when I said no. Should I just go with what he wants or do something about it?

Answer 1

I don't know if your brother's autism contributes to his behavior, but when my sons were younger (13 or so) they did similar things.  They are all normal and healthy.

You didn't say either his age or yours, but I'm guessing you are a teenager, and he is younger than you, and sometimes you have to be the one responsible when your mom isn't home.

One of the things we all need to learn as we grow up is how to make good judgment calls.  In each situation with your brother, ask yourself: what would be the consequences if you were to let him do what he wants?  Would it be better to hold firm in this situation?

There are often a lot of things to consider: your brother's welfare, your mother's aggravation, your grandpa's sleep, your own sanity, etc.  Try to find a reasonable ground that will minimize the negative consequences.

And through it all, be patient and kind with him - he is your brother after all, even though maybe he is sometimes ridiculous.

Answer 2

my sister does similar things, especially about food.

with her, I usually say NO NO NO, but she is overweight, and she has more like asberger's so she should be able to understand. I mostly credit it to her being spoiled: she whines and my parents give her the food to shut her up, so that's what she's learned to do.

I'd say you should ask your parents. I know right now my sister has a "behavior plan" where there are only certain things you are supposed to scold for. However, the kid does need to learn to hear a NO and live with it. Also judge on if the thing is important: it probably is not worth it to get in an argument/involve adults if he just wants to have a juice box or something.