An autistic tantrum is typically a display of anger or frustration in which a person may throw objects or exhibit other disruptive behaviors in an attempt to get their way.
While both meltdowns and tantrums may involve strong emotions, meltdowns are often a result of sensory overload or an inability to communicate needs, while tantrums are typically a response to a desire not being met.
An autistic meltdown, on the other hand, is a intense emotional reaction that is often triggered by overwhelming stimuli or an inability to cope with a situation.
It can involve crying, screaming, and physical expressions of distress such as thrashing or hitting oneself.
tantrum
/ˈtantrəm/
noun
1. happens when a child is trying to get something he wants or needs.
meltdown
/melt-doun/
noun
1. occurs when a child feels overwhelmed by his feelings or surroundings
