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Stimming

Stimming, or self-stimulatory behaviors, are repetitive behaviors or behaviors done over and over. Repetitive behaviors are part of autism.


Autistic and non-autistic or neurotypical people have repetitive behaviors. For example, some people tap their foot when nervous. Repetitive behaviors happen more for autistic people. Many young autistic children, for example, flap their hands, walk on their toes, or line items.


Most repetitive behaviors are not harmful. They can help people calm or feel good.


Some repetitive behaviors can be harmful or self-injurious. Therapies including but not limited to ABA therapy can help with self-injurious behaviors. Therapists must understand why the child is hurting themselves.

© 2024 by PEAAK Advisory Board with support by the Organization for Autism Research and Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 

A Note On Language: We use "autistic child" in line with autistic self-advocates. Some prefer "child with autism." We respect everyone's choice.

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