Embracing Stimming: Understanding Its Role in Regulation and Identity

In recent years, there has been a growing movement within the neurodiversity community to embrace and celebrate stimming as a vital aspect of neurodivergent identity and culture. This movement is rooted in the understanding that neurodivergent brains are wired differently than neurotypical brains, and that these differences are not inherently good or bad, but simply different. From this perspective, stimming is seen as a natural and necessary way for neurodivergent people to regulate their experiences. Stimming can also be a source of joy, creativity, self-expression, or serve as a social or communicative tool for connecting with others. 

Understanding Stimming

Stimming encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, finger-tapping, humming, or even engaging in specific interests or repetitive actions. For many years, stimming has been pathologized and stigmatized as a sign of abnormality, deviance, or weakness, leading many neurodivergent people to feel ashamed, anxious, or ostracized for their stims. Occupational Therapists were asked to help their clients have “quiet hands” and “settle their body. By embracing and celebrating stimming as a natural and valuable aspect of neurodivergent identity, the neurodiversity movement seeks to challenge these negative stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and accepting society for all. Now Occupational Therapists should only asked to modify a stim if the stim is harmful to themselves or others.

Self-Regulation 

For many neurodivergent individuals, stimming plays a crucial role in self-regulation. It helps them manage sensory input, reduce anxiety, and maintain emotional regulation. In environments that may be overwhelming due to bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells, stimming allows individuals to process and filter stimuli in a way that feels comfortable for them. When we fully accept stimming, we no longer have to modify stims to be more “socially acceptable”. There is nothing inherently better about chewing gum for regulation than using a chewy necklace for regulation. Just like there is nothing inherently better about scrolling through social media for regulation, than watching the ceiling fan spin for regulation. Or tapping your pen versus flapping your hands.

Expression and Communication

Stimming is also a form of expression and communication for neurodivergent individuals. It can convey emotions, interests, or a need for sensory input. Just as body language and facial expressions are fundamental means of nonverbal communication, stimming serves as an alternative method of communication. You may notice that an individual has different stim for different emotions. For example, they may pick their clothes when feeling anxious but may have a vocal stim when feeling excited.

Enhancing Focus and Concentration

Engaging in stimming can improve focus and concentration for many individuals. Repetitive movements or actions often provide a calming and grounding effect, allowing neurodivergent individuals to concentrate on tasks that require sustained attention. This unique ability can be harnessed to support productivity and creativity in various settings, such as school or work.

Promoting Autonomy and Well-Being

By embracing stimming and providing opportunities for regulated self-expression, we empower neurodivergent individuals to assert their autonomy and promote overall well-being. When stimming is accepted and integrated into everyday life, it fosters a sense of belonging and reduces the stigma associated with neurodivergent behaviors. This, in turn, supports positive mental health outcomes and encourages individuals to embrace their unique identities.

Acceptance

Stimming is an essential aspect of neurodivergent experience and identity, and a vital tool for regulating experiences. A neurodiversity-affirming approach to stimming recognizes the diversity of ways in which people stim, the unique meanings and functions that stimming can have for different individuals, and the impact of social and cultural context on the experiences of neurodivergent people. By promoting acceptance, understanding, and celebration of stimming, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society that values the diversity and richness of all human experience.