Stimming in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Definition and Characteristics

Stimming refers to repetitive actions or posturing of the body, arms, hands, or fingers, serving as self-regulatory mechanisms for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and includes common forms such as hand flapping, finger flicking, rocking, spinning, and atypical arm and foot movements during walking 1, 2
Stimming behaviors may emerge early or late during the second year of life, depending on the individual and study design 1
Repetitive behaviors with objects and body are significantly higher in children with ASD compared to typically developing children 1

The severity of repetitive and stereotyped behaviors correlates with the overall severity of ASD symptoms 1
Atypical body movements may serve as early markers for ASD, though this evidence is less well-established than other diagnostic markers 1, 2
Stimming behaviors should be distinguished from tics, which are seen in Tourette syndrome and can co-occur with ASD 3, 4