Question:

What are self stimulatory behaviors?

Self Stimulatory Behavior

One of the most noticeable traits of autism is self stimulatory behaviors simply because they are so outstanding. The stereotyped, repetitive movements serve a particular purpose for the individual with autism and they are very motivating and rewarding as well. Some adults who have autism like Stephen Shore describe self stimulatory behavior as "self regulating behavior" in an effort to communicate how reinforcing and important these repetitive movements are to the individual. Everyone engages in self stimulatory behavior, whether it is nail-biting, eating or watching television. The intake of sensory information is part of our daily lives and individuals who are wired a little differently are challenged with a bombardment of input that is impossible to organize and manage without some form of release. In other cases the individual is seeking out sensory input that is lacking. The stereotyped repetitive movements help to stimulate the nervous system to provide the lacking sensory input. Common self stimulatory behaviors include hand flapping and rocking. Each behavior corresponds to a sensory system in the body that is either lacking or craving input.

Autism Frequently Asked Questions

What are common signs of autism?

Are there early signs of autism?

What is autism?

What is PDD?

What are the five pervasive developmental disorders?

What is discrete trial?

What is positive reinforcement?

What is negative reinforcement?

What is picture exchange communication system?

How is funding from foundations distributed?

What is the Autism Research Institute?

What is the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation?

What grants and programs are offered by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation?

What is the Autism Society of America Foundation?

What scholarships are available through ASA?

What is the Special Needs Trust for Autism

What is the Autism Scholarship Program?

How can sign language help in the community setting?

How are visual schedules used in community settings?

Can PECS be used effectively in the community setting?

How are social stories used to prepare for a community setting?

What is safety awareness?

How do families prepare for outings in the community setting.

What different educational settings are available for autisitc children?

What is IDEA?

What is an IEP?

What is the therapist's role in the classroom setting.

How does a therapist encourage the child to pay attention in class?

How can teachers help students make smooth transitions between activities?

How are social goals addressed in the school setting?

What are visual teaching strategies?

Are there basic tips for teachers who have autisitic students in their classrooms?

Are there books about autism in the classroom?

What problems are in the home environment?

What is Wraparound in the home?

How is communication addressed in the home environment?

What are some strategies to encourage compliant behavior at home?

How can families deal with negative behavior in the home?

What is non-negotiable behavior?

Why are self help skills a challenge in the home environment

What are sensory issues?

Why do some researchers think that autism may be genetic?

What chromosomes are thought to be linked to autistic disorder?

What is mid technology?

How is technology used in the treatment of autism?

What is video modeling?

What are the benefits of using technology in the treament of autism?

Are there drawbacks to using technology in the treatment of autism?

What is the focus of treatments for autism?

What is ABA?

What is the floortime treatment approach?

What is fluency?

What is RDI?

Should the same interventions be used in all cases of autism?

When did autism emerge on the scene of psychology?

What is the DSM-IV?

What are self stimulatory behaviors?

What are sensory systems?

How are sensory integration activities used?

What is the Son Rise Program?

What is the difference between a behavioral and analytical approach?

What is echolalia?

What is TV talk?

When is echolalia used as communication?

Is negative behavior ever a promising occurance?

How can choices help to increase compliant behavior?

How can negative behavior be addressed?

What is the Theory of Mind?

Are there new findings in autism research?

How can I manage a sibling relationship when one has autism?





Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Autism Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Tammi Reynolds
Buy My Book