14. The Stimming Phenomenon: Beyond Mere Habits
If you’ve ever observed someone with Asperger’s Syndrome engaged in repetitive movements or vocalizations, you’ve witnessed “stimming,” a behavior that serves multiple functions. But stimming is more than mere habits or quirks; it’s a self-regulatory mechanism that can be crucial for coping with a chaotic world.
In a society that often prizes stillness and silence, stimming might seem disruptive or peculiar. Actions like tapping feet, flapping hands, or twirling objects can attract attention. Yet, these are not attempts to disrupt; rather, they are efforts to find balance. They can act as emotional release valves or ways to focus, often making these movements vital to the individual’s well-being.
The complexity of stimming isn’t just about what we can see; it’s deeply intertwined with sensory processing. When someone with Asperger’s stims, they’re often counteracting overwhelming sensory experiences that most people filter out automatically. This can be an auditory overload from a bustling crowd or tactile discomfort from clothing. (14)
