Ethan, a 5-year-old with autism spectrum disorder, often rocks back and forth repetitively. He also gets upset if he cannot follow each step of his familiar routines. A possible source of repetitive or ritualistic behavior is ____.

Question

Ethan, a 5-year-old with autism spectrum disorder, often rocks back and forth repetitively. He also gets upset if he cannot follow each step of his familiar routines. A possible source of repetitive or ritualistic behavior is ____. ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Repetitive or ritualistic behaviors in autism spectrum disorder can be linked to a general dysfunction in sensory networks, which may cause individuals to engage in such behaviors as a way to self-regulate or cope with sensory overload or under-stimulation.

Ethan, a 5-Year-Old with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Often Rocks Back