Stimming, or self-stimulatory behavior, involves repetitive movements or sounds. It is common among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and serves various purposes, primarily self-regulation.
Stimming helps manage emotions, cope with sensory overload or understimulation, and reduce anxiety. These behaviors can include hand-flapping, rocking, repeating words, or focusing on specific objects. Stimming is diverse, encompassing auditory, tactile, visual, vestibular, and olfactory experiences.
While stimming is often beneficial, providing comfort and focus, it can sometimes be disruptive or harmful. In such cases, strategies can help individuals find safer ways to self-regulate. Understanding and accepting stimming is crucial for fostering support and reducing stigma for individuals with ASD.