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I have a 20-year old son who was diagnosed at age 7 as "mildly" autistic; probably now would be considered "high -functioning". He has done pretty well in school, and special education services were no longer necessary after 9th grade. But he still struggles socially, and exhibits anxiety and obsessive behavior, as well as difficulty dealing with anger. He worries about the possibilty of serving in the military, and as parents, we are concerned that the stresses of basic training, not to mention combat duty, could prove disastrous for him mentally and emotionally. (Even dangerous to fellow soldiers if he over/under reacts on the battlefield) He is now attending college, and struggling with the typical stresses of college, made more challenging with his condition. I wonder how he would cope or perform in the military. So, my questions are...Is there a precedent for such individuals serving in the military? Are high-functioning autisitic people even accepted in the military? What are the recommendations of specialists in the field? And what course should we take? Sorry I am a bit unclear as to your sons concerns? He is afraid he might be forced to join the military because of the war? Like drafted? Or He want's to join and is afraid he won't be accepted? My ex was in the military and although not a recruiter worked in the processing center. The military does not take people with flat feet, people with a criminal background, people with asthma,etc. My ex said he admitted when he joined at the age of 22 to have occassionally "smoked" (if you understand what I mean) when he was a teenager. Any test would show he no longer did but it reduced job selection. When he found out he was color blind it reduced his job selection even further. I can not guarantee with all certainty that he would not be accepted into the military but the chances I feel are probably less than 1%. SERIOUSLY. They don't allow (admitted) gays *the don't ask don't tell policy* My best friend's husband is in the guard after serving in the navy. He was sent to afiganistan 18 months ago (has returned and may be shipped out again) They aren't taking guys over there that have dental problems! The military has so many people in the service and guard it would take ALOT before there was a draft and even then they are selective. They will not put someone in with mental instability (anxiety would probably classify) and especially will not list someone who could potentially become violent towards his fellow soldiers. I think he would be excused under a medical diagnosis. Plus they have to go through a lengthy application process of medical exams, a physical, academic testing and finger printing etc. If you or your son are that worried call up a recruiter. Schools, colleges usually have info to contact them or look in the yellow pages and ask the questions. Explain to the recruiter his fears and possibly they may be willing to actually make an appointment to reassure him. Recruiters (at least the ones in Baltimore Maryland) are on a quota. They must bring a certain number of people through each month and get a certain number to join. Failure to meet the quota sends them back to a different less desireable job possibly over seas or out to sea or in the fields for some. SO Usually the end of the month is an especially busy time for them if you try to contact them.
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