These behaviors are usually in the form of repetitive sounds or movements.
What is Vocal Stimming?
However, in these instances, the reasons for stimming will differentiate.
nicoletaionescu / Getty Images.
The manifestation and jot down of stimming behavior may be different too.
After all, ADHD and autism areneurological disordersthat affect different parts of the brain.
My son who is autistic and ADHD makes some great noises when he is happy!
I asked him why he did it and he said he liked the sound and it made him smile!
These behaviors may vary in intensity and form from person to person.
I often repeat specific words I like the sound of or phrases from TV programs.
I find it comforting but also find it involuntary.
It genuinely makes me happy repeating certain words that I like the sound of, adds Grainger.
Why Do People With ADHD or Autism Stim?
I often have words or phrases that go round and round in my head.
This can be anything from a song lyric or a line from Friends.
Additionally, this work highlighted that suppression of these behaviors had a negative effect on both emotions and cognition.
Yet, due to social pressure individuals tended to suppress them regardless.
How Is Vocal Stimming Managed?
In moments such as these, different management strategies can be employed as a means to help.
This could include behavioral modifications, therapy and in the case of people with ADHD,medication.
Iwinski has listed the following management tools as a means to help the navigation of vocal stimming.
She also points out 5,4,3,2,1grounding techniques as another exercise that can be of benefit.
If stimming makes someone with ADHD or Autism feel more comfortable then that’s exactly what they should do.
But this information may be helpful to some people, as everyone’s situation and needs are unique.
It is vital that individuals experiencing vocal stimming work towards finding a balance between self-expression and functional communication.
Therefore, these modalities are often utilized alongside the implementation of adaptive behaviors.
With the goal of enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life, Iwiniski finishes.
In the same regard, its important to also note that both ADHD and autism are highly stigmatized.
As a result, some individuals may find that they (consciously or unconsciously)masktheir stimming behaviors.
In these instances, individuals should research the topic as a means to uncover any unknown stims they have.
“I never knew I vocal stimmed until I was diagnosed with ADHD at 43.
For example, saying Hamburger on repeat, like Steve Martin in the Pink Panther movie!”
“Now I understand my ADHD, I understand why I stim.
Center for Autism Research.Stimming: What Is It and Does it Matter?
American Psychiatric Association.Understanding Stimming: Repetitive Behaviors with a Purpose.
2019;23(7):17821792. doi:10.1177/1362361319829628
