Do repetitive behaviours decrease in adolescence?

PostedDecember 5, 2025

UpdatedDecember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Repetitive behaviours in adolescent autism may change, but they do not always disappear. For some autistic teens, these behaviours lessen in frequency or intensity as they develop new coping strategies. For others, the behaviours continue but may look different compared to childhood, often shaped by new environments and expectations.

The way autistic teens behaviours evolve depends on individual needs and experiences. While some may outgrow certain habits, others might adopt new repetitive actions, especially during stressful times. For example, stimming teenage years may include tapping, fidgeting, or repeating phrases, serving the same purpose of self-regulation but appearing in different forms. These changes reflect broader developmental changes in autism, where growth and adaptation are influenced by age, social context, and support.

How It Helps or Changes

Repetitive behaviours in adolescence can have both challenges and benefits:

Emotional regulation

Even in the teen years, repetitive behaviours help manage stress and overwhelming emotions.

Social impact

Visible behaviours may attract attention, sometimes leading to misunderstandings or social difficulties.

Evolving patterns

As teens mature, behaviours may become less obvious, replaced with more socially accepted habits like doodling or using stress tools.

In essence, repetitive behaviours in adolescent autism highlight how routines and coping strategies shift rather than vanish. With the right guidance, families and schools can support positive adaptations while respecting the individual’s needs.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to explore tailored approaches for teenagers.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Repetitive Behaviours & Routines.

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.