Is Chewing Clothes a Symptom of Autism?
Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects a person’s social, communication, and behavior skills. It is estimated that 1 in 59 children in the United States have been diagnosed with some form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One of the common behaviors associated with autism is chewing on clothes. This behavior can be seen in both children and adults with autism.
Chewing on clothes is a behavior known as “stimming”. Stimming is a self-stimulatory behavior that is often seen in people with autism. It can involve repetitive movements, such as rocking, spinning, or hand-flapping, as well as repetitive verbalizations or noises. Chewing on clothes is a form of stimming that is often used to help regulate emotions, provide sensory input, or relieve boredom.
While chewing on clothes is not a diagnostic criteria for autism, it is something that is often seen in people with autism. It is important to note, however, that not every person with autism will engage in this behavior. It is also important to understand that this behavior can be seen in people without autism, as well. For example, some children may chew on their clothes as a way to soothe themselves or relieve anxiety.
It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of this behavior and to understand the reasons why it may be occurring. If the behavior is a result of anxiety or sensory seeking, then it is important to provide alternative methods of self-soothing and sensory input. This could include providing items such as a stress ball, a chew toy, or a weighted blanket.
It is also important to monitor the behavior and to ensure that it is not causing any damage to the clothing or to the person engaging in the behavior. If the behavior is causing damage to the clothing or to the person, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help to identify the underlying cause of the behavior and develop a plan to address it.
In conclusion, chewing on clothes is not a diagnostic criteria for autism, but it is a behavior that is often seen in people with autism. It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of this behavior and to understand the reasons why it may be occurring. If the behavior is causing damage or distress, it is important to seek professional help. By understanding the behavior and providing alternative methods of self-soothing and sensory input, parents and caregivers can help to reduce the occurrence of this behavior.
Source: Psychology Today
Alternative Viewpoint
While it is true that chewing on clothes is a behavior that is often seen in people with autism, it is important to note that this behavior is not exclusive to those with autism. It can also be seen in people without autism, and it is important to understand the underlying cause of the behavior in order to best address it.
For example, if the behavior is a result of anxiety or sensory seeking, then it is important to provide alternative methods of self-soothing and sensory input. This could include providing items such as a stress ball, a chew toy, or a weighted blanket. In addition, it is important to monitor the behavior and to ensure that it is not causing any damage to the clothing or to the person engaging in the behavior.
It is also important to remember that not every person with autism will engage in this behavior. Therefore, it is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the behavior and to understand the reasons why it may be occurring in order to best address it. By understanding the behavior and providing alternative methods of self-soothing and sensory input, parents and caregivers can help to reduce the occurrence of this behavior.