A repetitive or ritualistic movement, posture, or utterance, that can be found in patients with autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, tardive dyskinesia, or stereotypic movement disorder. Stereotypies may be simple movements such as body rocking, or complex, such as self-caressing, crossing and uncrossing of legs, and marching in place.
Persistent, mechanical repetition of speech or motor activity, observed in schizophrenia.
The repetition of the same action or word again and again.
Stereotypy is a constellation of motor behaviors that can be categorized as a disorder or as a symptom of a disorder. When stereotypic behaviors are severe, a diagnosis of stereotypic movement disorder is appropriate (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 1994). Stereotypic behaviors also are observed as symptoms in autism, mental retardation, and other developmental disorders. Stereotypic behaviors include recurrent and repetitive rocking, hand flapping, eye blinking, head banging, face slapping, biting or sucking body parts, and/or other selfinjurious behaviors. Theories vary regarding the cause of stereotypic behaviors. One set of theories states that the individual is hyposensitive and requires more sensory input and stimulation. Another set of theories states that the individual is hypersensitive and needs sensory input as a calming device. In this view, the stereotypic behavior helps the person “block-out the overstimulating environment” and focus his or her attention inwardly.
The constant repetition of a complex action, which is carried out in the same way each time. It is seen in catatonia and infantile autism; sometimes it is an isolated symptom in mental sub-normality. It is more common in patients who live in institutions where they are bored and unstimulated. It can prevent a patient from carrying on normal life, and sometimes causes physical injury to the patient. Drugs, such as phenothiazines, and behavior therapy are sometimes used in treating the condition.
The persistent repetition of words, posture, or movement without meaning.