Chapter 2 - ASD Traits
What is Stimming?
Stimming is defined as a self-stimulatory behavior that involves repetitive sounds, movements, or actions. Although the DSM-5 characterizes stimming as “stereotyped or repetitive movements", Autistic adults have reclaimed it as stimming (Kapp et al., 2019).
Some examples of stimming may include, but are not limited to the following:
Movements (motor) - pacing, rocking, spinning, hand flapping
Sounds - vocalizations, repeating words and or phrases, humming
Actions (sensory seeking) - seeking out particular smells, tastes, or textures and or object manipulation (e.g., chewing, twirling hair, flicking objects, etc.)
Why do Autistic individuals engage in stimming?
According to recent research, Autistic adults report that stimming provides soothing input that aids them in coping with distorted or overstimulating perception in stressful or exciting situation and can help manage uncertainty and anxiety (Kapp et al., 2019).
Stimming can support Autistic individuals in the following:
Self-regulation - aids in managing impulses, emotions, and sensory input
Expressing emotions - allows expression of excitement, frustration, etc.
Coping - provides a means of managing sensory overload through a sense of familiarity and or comfort
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In this video, a mom shares the different types of stimming that her Autistic son engages in while walking outside.
Note: It is very important that stimming is not discouraged, but rather encouraged as it supports Autistic children in self-regulation.
Other Common Traits…
In addition to stimming, Autistic individuals also have other common traits such as challenges with changes in routines and or environments. Thus, starting at an early age, it is helpful to establish a structured routine with your Autistic child so that they know what to expect and how their day starts out and or plays out.
Some strategies to support your child with navigating changes to routine and or the environment may include, but are not limited to the following:
Establish clear expectations or predictability
Create visual schedules to support your child in understanding what to expect throughout the day or during that designated time (pictures, written lists, etc.)
Visual Schedule Example for Autistic Son (Amazon Link to Visual Schedule)
A visual schedule can also simply be made with materials at home
Use timers and or countdowns to support your child in preparing for upcoming transitions or changes by letting them know in advance