THIS ARTICLE EXPLORES REPETITIVE BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM TO HELP SHED MORE LIGHT ON THE ISSUE.

By Karla PRETORIUS, MPsych and Nanette BOTHA, BEd

Repetitive and restrictive behavior are among the main symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, the mechanisms behind repetitive behaviors in autism have proven quite challenging to understand. Although some experts suggest that these behaviors in children with ASD result from an attention deficit, others are convinced children with autism have abnormalities in the motor system. According to those groups of experts, behaviors and developmental disorders in people with autism are caused by motor deficits usually observed in autism spectrum disorders.

The term repetitive behavior refers to the unusual behaviors characterized by repetition, inappropriate behavior, rigidity, and a lack of adaptability. These include self-injurious, self-stimulatory, verbal repetitive, and compulsive actions — all of which are stereotyped motor behaviors.

This article will further explore repetitive behaviors in children with autism to help shed more light on the issue. Beyond that, we will also explain the causes and offer some solutions.

What Are Repetitive Behaviors in Autism?

As mentioned earlier, the term repetitive behaviors refers to any form of unusual behavior characterized by repetition, inappropriate conduct, rigidity, and a lack of adaptability. These behaviors also include stereotyped actions that are self-injurious, self-stimulatory, verbally repetitive, and compulsive.

Repetitive behaviors can potentially cause problems when they become a significant part of the person’s waking hours or lead to substantial bodily harm resulting from self-injurious behaviors. These behaviors can also be difficult when they create a challenge for the person to learn more “appropriate” actions or interfere with their ability to interact with others. The condition can also interfere with certain everyday activities, leading to alienation or isolation. As indicated earlier, the actual function of repetitive disorders is still unknown, but hypothesized functions can include sensory stimulation, reward or gratification, and stress reduction.