What is Stimming?

Stimming, short for self-stimulatory actions, refers to a wide range of repetitive actions or movements that individuals engage in to help with emotional regulation, sensory regulation, self-expression or aiding executive functioning.

Stimming is a natural and valid way to navigate the world and cope with various stimuli. Most, if not all, people engage in stimming, in one form or another.

Stimming may be more “obvious” or “pronounced” for people who are neurodivergent, such as autistic people, ADHD people, or individuals with sensory processing differences.

Stimming can take various forms

Stimming can take on various forms, including hand flapping, rocking back and forth, spinning objects, repetitive vocalisations, tapping, or fidgeting with objects. See our page ‘Examples of Stims’ for more information.

Stims have different purposes

Stims serve different purposes for different individuals. They can help in managing emotions, reducing anxiety, providing comfort in overwhelming sensory environments, or simply serving as a way to express oneself when verbal communication might be challenging. See our page ‘Benefits of Stimming’ for more information.

Understanding and encouraging stimming

Understanding and encouraging stimming is crucial in creating inclusive environments that respect and accommodate the diverse needs of individuals across the neurodiversity spectrum.