Repetetive Behaviors

[lucysmom]

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone had any insight on the pros and cons of redirecting repetetive behaviors.

Sometimes I think it should be left alone. The individual should be respected and left to feel and act as she/he is acting or feeling. On the other hand, it does so limit interaction with people and things that just might be really interesting to the one exhibiting the behaviors.

Some things, like vocal tics, become an issue in public places -but even in the context of one on one interaction - it is often a "communication ender". Usually leaving both parties frustrated and a little jangled.

Any advice?

[Carrie]

Good topic. I've actually been seeking out help (medication) for my sons tics (vocal and physical) as of late because it does seem that they are becoming intrusive. What else can be done, other than medication, to decrease incidences of these behaviors? Is there anything else?

[lucysmom]

What medications have proven helpful?

Good old behavior modification with a sensitivity to the individual and positive reinforcements have worked for me fairly often.

[Carrie]

Thus far, nothing has really been helpful. Ritalin made things worse. We've tried a blood pressure medication but the results were minimal, plus I believe thats when the tics started allthough the psychiatrist insists that these particular meds are used to stop tics. I posted in the other topic a bit more in detail and with a question that applies mostly to tics as opposed to repetitive behaviors. As for your question, my opinion is similar to yours I think: That as long as the behavior isn't intrusive to daily life, it should be left alone. I know a set of parents who will not allow their child to rock AT ALL. But to these children, these repetitive behaviors are soothing so it's a tough call. When the behavior makes them stand out, or when it interferes with learning and daily activities and such, thats one thing. But what's wrong with a child rocking back and forth, or hand flapping, or lining things up, or whatever if they do it on their own time? I suppose too though that one would have to limit the ammount of time allowed for the behavior.