We have 2 autistic grandsons - ages 9 and 11. Contrary to what we've heard about autistic people, the younger boy DOES lie, and he intentionally hurts the dog and his brother - who doesn't stand up for himself. We have to keep an eye on him constantly.
On the other hand, he is making wonderful academic progress. When his IED (academic plan for next year)was finalized, we were told that he will be on track to graduate from typical high school, NOT special ed hs, if he's successful with this IED. He's going to be one busy boy next year, but that's what he needs. He was bored WAY too much last year, and that led to a LOT of acting out.
His older brother is sweeter - but he's pre-pubescent and that's creating new problems. He's so big physically that it's becoming more and more difficult for his mom to deal with him when his dad (my DS) isn't home. He was weaned off all his meds during the spring, but he'll probably have to go back on some to control his self-abuse when he can't make himself understood - and other intolerable behaviors that have resurfaced. It's hard to balance med positives and negatives.