I find it hard to motivate my son with Asperger’s – he can go for days without sleep plus it is hard to get out of his room; always on the computer.
Your son probably feels as if those around him do not understand him so his way of handling the situation is to internalize everything. I am sure he does not feel conformable being judged by others so he finds a way to take his mind off everything by isolating himself and doing something that he really enjoys. His lack of motivation and sleep could be directly tied to these feelings as well.
There are several things that you should consider doing to help your son with his lack of motivation and isolation.
- Consult with his doctor first. It is unclear if you son is on any type of medication. Some medications may make him alert when he should be asleep. Time released medications may be the reason behind why your son is not sleeping. Talk to his doctor about the lack of sleep and his lack of motivation to see what measures need to be taken. It may have nothing to do with any medication that he is on, but these reasons should be ruled out before looking further.
- Find non-computer versions of your son’s favorite activities. A good way to get your son out of the house and involved in activities is to find versions of his favorite activities that do not involve the computer. For example, if you son likes to play tennis or football on the computer, find groups that he can participate in so that he can get out of his room. Even if he does not want to play games that do not involve using his computer, you may be able to find a computer group that he can participate in that will get him out of his room.
- Find a way to let your son display his talents. He may be interested in certain special interest groups that you should look into for him. He may find that others have the same exceptional talent that he has. Activities like this will boost his motivation and get him out of his room.
- Offer your son incentives for the behaviors you want to see in him. You can work out an agreement to get your son motivated and out of his room by offering him something in return. Sit down with your son and decide upon terms that are favorable for the both of you, and you should see your son’s motivation improve drastically.
Let your son know that you are there for him when he needs you. Support him as he transitions through this process.