Harden Elkington
Autism is a complex condition and its effects of it are often misunderstood.
One particular set of behaviors that can be associated with autism is stereotyped behavior, which can range from unusual movements such as hand flapping to repeating words and phrases.
While these behaviors may appear strange or disruptive, they help people with autism express emotions or reduce stress in unfamiliar situations.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects of stereotyped behaviors that are typically seen in those with autism.
We will discuss what these behaviors look like and why they occur, as well as strategies to help manage them.
What are stereotyped behaviors?
Stereotyped behaviors are repetitive physical or verbal activities that are often seen in people with autism. These behaviors include:
- Hand flapping
- Rocking
- Jumping
- Repeating words and phrases
- Spinning objects
- Echolalia.
They can also involve the use of objects such as toys or other items to create patterns or arrange things in a particular way.
These behaviors are often viewed as disruptive and can be seen in public settings, making them difficult to manage at times.
However, they serve an important function and can help people with autism express themselves or reduce stress in novel situations.
Why do people with autism display stereotyped behaviors?
There are several reasons why people with autism may display stereotyped behaviors. These include:
Reduced anxiety in unfamiliar or stressful situations
For people with autism, stereotyped behaviors are a way to reduce anxiety in unfamiliar or stressful situations.
This can happen when a person is overwhelmed by sensory input or feels threatened in some way.
The repetitive behaviors provide the individual with comfort and security, allowing them to cope with their environment more effectively.
Additionally, the physical movements of stereotyped behavior can release feel-good hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine which help to reduce stress and calm the body.
Finally, people with autism may seek out these behaviors because of sensory issues – hand flapping for example can provide a soothing tactile sensation that helps them cope with their environment.
A need for sensory stimulation
For some people with autism, stereotyped behaviors can also be a way to seek out sensory stimulation.
This is because the physical movements and repetitiveness of the behavior can provide pleasurable sensations that help them cope with their environment.
Additionally, this type of behavior can also be used to create a safe space or buffer from stressful situations.
Furthermore, some individuals may find the movements or sounds produced by these behaviors comforting, and as a result, they will instinctively seek out these activities as a form of self-regulation.
A means of communication
Stereotyped behaviors can also be used as a form of communication for people with autism.
For example, they may use certain movements or words to indicate how they are feeling.
Additionally, these behaviors can be used to show agreement or disagreement with something, as well as serve as a way to express emotions such as excitement or joy.
Finally, some people with autism may find it difficult to communicate verbally, so the use of stereotyped behavior can be used as an alternative form of communication.
Difficulty expressing emotions in nonverbal ways
People with autism can sometimes find it difficult to express their emotions through traditional methods such as facial expressions or body language.
As a result, they may rely on stereotyped behaviors to express themselves.
By using specific movements and words, they are able to more accurately communicate how they feel. Additionally, this can help them to better understand and manage their emotions.
To help them focus on tasks or activities
Stereotyped behaviors can also be used by people with autism to help them stay focused on tasks or activities.
By repeating certain movements or words, they are able to limit distractions and stay focused on the task at hand.
Furthermore, this type of behavior can provide a sense of structure and predictability which can help them to feel more secure when completing a task.
How to manage the stereotyped behaviors in people with autism?
The management of stereotyped behaviors in people with autism can be challenging. But there are steps that can be taken to help, including:
Identifying situations that might trigger
One way to help manage stereotyped behaviors in people with autism is to identify situations that might trigger them.
This can include recognizing triggers such as sensory overload, a stressful event, or an unfamiliar environment.
By understanding the potential causes of the behavior, it will be easier to create strategies for managing and preventing it.
Creating a calming environment
Creating a calming and supportive environment can also help to reduce the frequency of stereotyped behavior.
This might involve creating a space that is free from distractions, reducing sensory stimulation, or providing a quiet place for the individual to relax.
Additionally, introducing activities that are both enjoyable and calming, such as puzzles or music, can also be helpful in providing a sense of comfort and helping them manage their emotions.
Seeking professional help
In some cases, it may be beneficial to seek out the help of a professional such as an occupational therapist or behavioral therapist.
They will be able to provide strategies and techniques to help manage the behaviors, as well as identify any underlying causes that might be triggering them.
Additionally, they can provide support and guidance for both the person with autism and their family members or caregivers.
Conclusion
Stereotyped behaviors are a common occurrence in people with autism, and can serve several purposes such as providing comfort, communication, and focus.
While these behaviors can be challenging to manage, there are steps that can be taken to help reduce their frequency.
The key to managing stereotyped behaviors in people with autism is to find the right balance of understanding and providing necessary support.
By doing so, it will help create an environment that is both supportive and calming for the individual. Ultimately, this can help them to better manage
