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A thread about the function of so-called Autistic repetitive behaviours, from an Autistic perspective. I use the analogy of Christmas to articulate my points so that allistic (non-ASD) folks may better understand.
So, why do Autistics engage in the same activities over again?
So, why do Autistics engage in the same activities over again?
Autistic repetitive behaviours provide comfort and joy in times of chaos. Engaging in the activities, stimulation and interests that we know and trust to be soothing is our way of resetting our senses and grounding our emotions when we are overwhelmed/anxious. #ActuallyAutistic
Xmas comes each year and whether we celebrate/enjoy it or not, there is something symbolic about it, beyond religion: Xmas is a predictable, familiar and ritualistic way to culminate the end-of-year, providing comfort and joy to many facing darkness/unknown. Makes sense, right?
Unlike ASD repetitive behaviours, Xmas is a socially acceptable time for all to rewatch favorite movies, eat the same foods and listen to carols on repeat. Why? Because folks find stability/comfort by clinging to their familiar rituals. (Oh and capitalism but that's another post)
While I don't celebrate Xmas as an ASD adult (it doesn't make logical sense to me), I empathize with its purpose for folks who do. I do still listen to the "Sussex Carol" on repeat as I remember it filling my childhood car as my mom drove us down icy roads to the warmth of home.
Xmas time is one time of year where neurotypical folks get really flustered/upset when their familiar Xmas customs don't work out exactly as they did in Xmasses past. Well, for Autistic our misunderstood behaviours provide us with that similar comforting function everyday...
Because Autistics are hypersensitive, we react more acutely than Allistics to external changes beyond our control. Our ASD repetitive behaviours/customs act in essence, like Xmas for us. Except that we can create self-comfort and joy anytime, regardless of what the calendar says.
