Expert: Dr. Sharon A. Mitchell - 8/2/2010

Question
Our 6 yo rocks, laughs, hums.  Why is he doing this?  What can we do stop these behaviors?

Answer
I would need to have more information on your son to give you realistic suggestions.

It depends on why he is doing these things? Does the child have a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder? If so, we would approach these behaviors from a certain point of view.

If he is not a child with autism, then we would think more about the emotional aspects. Has something traumatic happened to this little boy? A major change in his life? Are these behaviors bringing him comfort or an escape from an unpleasant situation? If this is the case, then I would think about how I could make him feel as secure as possible. Plus, I would seek help from a counselor.

If this is a child with autism, these behaviors would not seem so abnormal. We would need to consider the frequency and intensity with which he engages in these activities. Is it almost all his waking hours? Does it interfere in his life so that he is missing out on other activities because these behaviors consume him?

What do you think he gets from these behaviors?

In my experience, it is very difficult to make a child stop doing the behaviors he has chosen. The best way to approach this is to try and discover what he may be getting out of these actions and finding similar, replacement ones - ones that you will find more acceptable and that will not get in the way of his life.


Is he verbal? Is he able to communicate with you his wants and needs? What type of educational program is he in? If you tell me a bit more about your son I may be able to give you specific suggestions.

Sharon A. Mitchell, B.A., B.Ed., M.A., PhD Candidate
www.autismsite.ca