Hello, dear readers and autism enthusiasts; welcome to another exciting blog post on the upcoming book, "U Don't Seem Autistic." Today, we're diving into a fascinating topic that you've probably noticed if you know someone on the autism spectrum: repetitive behaviours. Specifically, we'll explore why autistic individuals may repeat themselves and how this quirky trait helps them cope with and process information.
Why the Repetition?
Have you ever had a friend or family member on the spectrum who seems to say the same thing over and over again? You might have wondered, "Why do they do that?" Well, let's unravel the mystery.
Stability and Comfort: For many autistic individuals, routine and predictability provide a sense of stability and comfort in an often unpredictable world. Repeating certain phrases or actions can be a way to maintain that stability.
Communication Reinforcement: Repetition can serve as a tool for reinforcing communication. Autistic individuals may repeat themselves to ensure that their message is understood, especially if they're concerned that others might misinterpret their intentions.
Processing Information: Autistic brains process information differently, often requiring more time and repetition to absorb and make sense of new information fully. Repeating a phrase or question can be a way to facilitate this processing.
Self-Soothing: Repetition can be a form of self-soothing, helping autistic individuals manage anxiety or sensory overload. It's a way to focus their attention and create a calming rhythm in a chaotic world.
How It Helps Them Cope
Now that we've explored the 'why,' let's delve into how repetition helps autistic individuals navigate their world:
Enhanced Understanding: By repeating a statement or question, autistic individuals can better grasp and process the response. It's like turning up the volume on a message to ensure it's heard loud and clear.
Comfort in Familiarity: Repetition provides a sense of familiarity and control. In a world filled with sensory and social unpredictability, having something constant can be a lifeline.
Building Confidence: When a repetitive behaviour results in a desired outcome, it can boost an autistic individual's confidence in their ability to communicate effectively.
Reducing Anxiety: The soothing nature of repetition can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of calm during stressful situations. It's a coping mechanism that provides emotional relief.
Embracing Neurodiversity
Understanding why autistic individuals may repeat themselves is just one aspect of embracing neurodiversity. Instead of seeing these behaviours as quirks to be corrected, let's appreciate them as valuable coping mechanisms and communication tools. Remember, every person's neurology is unique, and we should celebrate these differences.
So, next time you hear someone on the spectrum repeat themselves, don't be quick to hush them. Instead, engage with patience and empathy, knowing that repetition is their way of navigating and making sense of the world around them.
In "U Don't Seem Autistic," we delve deeper into the fascinating world of autism, sharing personal stories, insights, and experiences that will broaden your understanding of this diverse community. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, and remember, embracing neurodiversity is a journey worth taking.
References:
Attwood, T. (2007). The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Grandin, T. (1995). Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism. Vintage.
Sinclair, J. (1993). Don't Mourn for Us. Our Voice, 1(3).
Solomon, A. (2008). The Autism Chronicles: Thirty Days in the Life of an Autistic Boy. New York Magazine.