Is Stimming Motivated by Pain or Discomfort in Autism?

PostedDecember 9, 2025

UpdatedDecember 9, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Yes, in some cases, stimming can be a response to physical or emotional discomfort. Stimming, pain and discomfort in autism are often linked, especially when an individual struggles to express what they’re feeling verbally. Repetitive behaviours like rocking, tapping, or rubbing certain areas may signal that something doesn’t feel right.

Unlike neurotypical expressions of pain, autistic individuals might not say “it hurts” directly. Instead, stimming, pain and discomfort in autism can appear as an increase in certain behaviours, especially if they are trying to manage internal sensations.

How Stimming Responds to Discomfort

Not all stimming is about discomfort, but when it is, the behaviours serve an important purpose. Here’s how:

A signal of physical distress

Changes in behaviour can sometimes point to physical discomfort in autism. For example, a child might repeatedly hit their head or rock intensely when experiencing pain they can’t verbalise, such as a headache, ear infection, or tummy ache.

A form of self-regulation

Stimming provides a way to manage discomfort through self-regulation in autism. The rhythmic or repetitive movement offers relief and grounding during moments of pain or unease.

Coping without words

For individuals with limited verbal communication, stimming may be one of the few available coping strategies for pain in autism. Recognising this pattern can lead to quicker identification of health issues and more compassionate care.

Understanding the connection between stimming, pain and discomfort in autism can improve how carers, teachers, and clinicians respond to changes in behaviour.

For personalised health and sensory support, 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.