Stimming is used by many Autistic individuals as a method to look for sensory input helping them:
- In vulnerable situations
- Where they need to regulate themselves
Some individuals feel disturbed in their motion at times and need to find stimulation by either:
- Using a sensory toy or object,
- Using physical movement
- Shaking their hands
- Running,
- Jumping,
- Humming to themselves
This gives a comfortable feeling of relaxation. Many Autistic people will visually stim distracting themselves from the negative input surrounding them. This may look like they are ignoring the conversation, class lesson or other people centred activities, but it is a coping mechanism to help understand the now.
What other People Say
Stimming has been interpreted as protective response to over stimulation, in which people calm themselves by blocking less predictable environmental stimuli, to which they have a heightened sensitivity. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Others suggest that stimming has a calming effect focusing attention away from an overwhelming experience. Stimming behaviours can provide a calming effect to Autistic people. They can vary in intensity and type and can occur due to a variety of emotions. Autistic people of any age may stim occasionally or constantly in response to emotions such as excitement, happiness, stress, fear, and anxiety. Medical News Today
Growing evidence suggests that repetitive behaviours have been misunderstood and they are in fact incredibly useful. The behaviours give Autistic people a sense of control, helping them cope with overwhelming external stimuli, and a way to calm and communicate their moods. Stimming, therapeutic for Autistic people, deserves acceptance. Steven Kapp
Silent Assassin 