Do Autistic People with Intellectual Disability Stim Differently?

PostedDecember 9, 2025

UpdatedDecember 9, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, there are often differences in how stimming presents when intellectual disability and stimming in autism occur together. While stimming itself is common across the spectrum, its form, frequency, and function may vary depending on a person’s cognitive profile and developmental stage.

When intellectual disability and stimming in autism co-occur, stimming may be more frequent or more pronounced. This is often linked to differences in communication, sensory processing, and coping abilities, which shape how behaviours are expressed and managed.

Behaviour Differences and Developmental Context

Understanding stimming in this context requires recognising the role of developmental and cognitive factors:

Communication needs

Many individuals with learning disability in autism have limited verbal communication. Stimming can serve as an expressive outlet, indicating emotions, needs, or discomfort when words aren’t available. This makes some stims more functional or context-driven.

Developmental patterns

Stimming may reflect developmental delay in autism, with behaviours more closely aligned to earlier developmental stages. For instance, a teenager with an intellectual disability might engage in stims typical of much younger children, such as mouthing objects or hand-flapping.

Behaviour differences in form and intensity

Some individuals may engage in more repetitive or self-injurious stimming, particularly if they have difficulty understanding or accessing other self-regulation tools. These behaviour differences don’t imply a lack of intelligence; they highlight the need for tailored support and understanding.

Recognising the connection between intellectual disability and stimming in autism helps families and professionals respond with compassion, patience, and appropriate strategies.

For tailored support and advice, visit providers like Autism Detect.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Stimming (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve 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 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.