KevinMD December 9, 2024
A series of behaviors in autistic children, not well addressed by medical providers today, include self-harming, hitting, biting, mouthing, licking objects, pickiness with food, clothing textures, and touching private areas – otherwise known as “sensory behaviors.” Some of these behaviors, often found to be embarrassing, can remain prevalent and persist into adulthood. Part of the problem is that medical providers typically are not educated regarding the nuances of these unique autistic behaviors. Providers know in general how to refer to specialists for behavioral treatment in the case of autism. Specific therapies target certain behavioral issues. The behaviors mentioned above are sensory in nature. Families frequently struggle with the existence of these behaviors in their children, silently. What can we, as...