stereotypia

Stereotypia, or stereotypy, is the repetitive, invariant movement, posture, or vocalization that serves little or no obvious purpose. These behaviors are often rhythmic and can be continuous or prolonged. Common motor forms include hand-flapping, body rocking, finger tapping, and repetitive postures; common vocal forms include humming, repeating syllables, or clicking.

Stereotypies occur in a range of contexts. They are frequently seen in neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Rett syndrome, and intellectual disability, but may also follow brain injury, severe sensory deprivation, or stress. They can appear in typically developing children, especially early in development, and often decrease with age or stimulation.

Classification distinguishes motor versus vocal stereotypies; simple (brief, single movement or note) versus complex (structured sequences); and primary (idiopathic or self-generated) versus secondary to another condition.

Stereotypies are distinguished from tics by duration and control: tics are brief, sudden, and may be preceded by a premonitory urge and can be suppressed briefly; compulsions are repetitive behaviors driven by anxiety and aimed at reducing distress. Stereotypies are often not linked to an anxiety relief urge and may be less controllable.

Management focuses on function and impairment. Assessment uses clinical observation and history to determine frequency, duration, triggers, and impact on daily life. Interventions include function-based behavioral strategies (functional analysis, differential reinforcement, redirection), environmental adaptations, and sensory supports. Pharmacologic treatment is considered only for co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, or mood disorders.

In animals, stereotypies describe repetitive, invariant behaviors often produced by restricted environments. Prognosis varies by underlying condition; in some individuals stereotypies persist, while in others they lessen with development and supportive interventions.