Self-stimulatory, or stimming, behaviors are repetitive behaviors that we all engage in, such as pacing, tapping our pen, shaking our leg while sitting, or humming our favorite song. However, individuals with autism sometimes receive excessive attention or criticism for doing the same.
For many children with autism, self-stimulatory behaviors are defined as repeating phrases, flapping their hands or arms, rocking back and forth while sitting…but should these behaviors be interrupted? The short answer is no unless it is a dangerous behavior.
Self-stimulatory behaviors can be a sign of joy, excitement, or comfort. When safe self-stimulatory behaviors are continuously interrupted by caregivers, this can cause discomfort to a child with autism as this is an innate need to self-soothe. Stimming behaviors should only be interrupted and discouraged when the behavior is unsafe, such as self-injurious behaviors.
Healthy stimming behaviors should not be punished, instead they should be seen as self-soothing.
When a stimming behavior is dangerous, it is important to plan for a healthy replacement where the new safe behavior can provide the similar comfort, but without the danger. A healthy replacement behavior should be identified with your healthcare provider or professional.
In the end, we all self-stim, and it brings us comfort to engage in these behaviors, so why should we interrupt someone else’s joy or comfort if it presents no harm?
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