Topics > Stereotypical Behavior

Understanding

A complete understanding of the causes of stereotypical behaviors has yet to be discovered.  Contrary to popular belief, these behaviors do not just serve a "sensory or self-stimulating" function.  It is thought that these individuals do not get enough sensory input from the environment around them and, thus, with the behaviors are creating the additional input they seek.  However, recent research demonstrates that these behaviors serve a variety of functions in addition to meeting an individual's sensory needs. 

These behaviors may also serve as an escape from an instructional demand, attention from others and/or avoidance of social interaction, and to gain access to desired items and activities. The research also demonstrates these behaviors serve multiple functions instead of just one.  Thus, the only way to understand the function of the behavior is conduct a functional analysis In addition, medical evaluations are necessary to rule out seizures and illness.

Sources:  Kennedy, C., Meyer, K., Knowles,T., Shukla,S.(2000). Analyzing the multiple functions of stereotypical behaviors. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33(4), 559-571.