Tics vs. Stims.

[EmersonAilidh]

What's the difference?? I mean, I know stims are associated with Autism, but is there an inherent difference between the two? Thank you!

[peglem]

Okay, I'm just going to give you my opinion- just keep in mind that I am completely cynical about autism. ("diagnosis," & "treatment,")

 

I think "stims" are what you call tics or compulsions of a sensory nature if the person doing them has been labeled autistic. I've been asking this question for years, and nobody, including professionals has been able to give me an answer that makes sense. When my daughter was younger, there was (maybe still is) a treatment philosophy that recommended not allowing autistic kids to engage in stims. Interfering with "stims" creates a lot of anxiety- just like not allowing compulsions or tics.

Edited November 8, 2010 by peglem