FAQS
Why do some autistic people not speak?
Many autistic children may experience selective mutism (SM), an anxiety disorder characterized by an inability to speak in certain settings despite being able to speak comfortably in others. In autistic individuals, SM is often linked to intense social anxiety, which can be heightened by challenges with social communication, sensory sensitivities, or overwhelming environments such as noisy, crowded schools. In these moments, anxiety can effectively "freeze" their voice, making it difficult or impossible to express their needs, even though they may communicate freely at home. It’s important to recognize that selective mutism is not caused by autism itself, but it can occur alongside autism.
What is Masking?
Some autistic people suppress or hide their autism symptoms in order to be accepted or meet societal expectations. This is called masking or camouflaging. Masking might look like pushing through your sensory discomfort in a loud room or forcing eye contact during a conversation. Research shows that masking is more common in girls and women and can cause mental health issues.
What is stimming?
Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, refers to repetitive movements or actions that individuals engage in to provide sensory stimulation or regulate their emotions.
Common Examples of Stimming:
- Hand flapping or spinning
- Tapping or clicking objects
- Rocking or swaying
- Humming or singing repetitive sounds
- Staring at lights or objects
- Rubbing or scratching the skin
- Chewing or biting objects
- Pacing or walking in circles
Stimming is often observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it can also occur in other neurodevelopmental conditions or as a coping mechanism in stressful situations. It is thought to provide sensory input that helps individuals.
Why do autistic children only eat certain foods?
Autistic children often favor specific foods due to sensory sensitivities, leading to preferences for certain textures, smells, and temperatures, and an aversion to others. Additionally, their preference for routine and consistency, a core autism trait, makes them resistant to changes in food or mealtimes. Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are also more common in autistic individuals and can cause discomfort, contributing to food aversions.
What is Eloping?
Autism eloping (sometimes called wandering) refers to when a person with autism—most often a child—leaves a safe area unexpectedly or runs off, often without awareness of danger or the ability to communicate where they’re going. It’s not about “misbehavior.” It usually happens because of unmet needs or sensory factors.
Common reasons eloping happens
- Sensory overload (too much noise, light, or activity)
- Seeking something familiar or comforting (water, a favorite place, a person)
- Anxiety or fear
- Curiosity or impulse control challenges
- Difficulty communicating needs
Why it’s a serious concern
Eloping can be dangerous because the person may:
- Enter traffic
- Wander near water
- Get lost or disoriented
- Be unable to respond to their name or ask for help
Many autistic individuals who elope aren’t trying to escape—they’re trying to regulate, communicate, or feel safe.
What is the DSM?
The DSM is the main handbook used by psychologists, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals to identify and diagnose mental health conditions. It lists the following:
- Mental health disorders
- Describes symptoms and diagnostic criteria
- Helps make diagnoses more consistent across clinicians
Who uses it: therapists, doctors, researchers, insurance companies, courts, and schools
What is Eloping?
Autism eloping (sometimes called wandering) refers to when a person with autism—most often a child—leaves a safe area unexpectedly or runs off, often without awareness of danger or the ability to communicate where they’re going. It’s not about “misbehavior.” It usually happens because of unmet needs or sensory factors.
Common reasons eloping happens
- Sensory overload (too much noise, light, or activity)
- Seeking something familiar or comforting (water, a favorite place, a person)
- Anxiety or fear
- Curiosity or impulse control challenges
- Difficulty communicating needs
Why it’s a serious concern
Eloping can be dangerous because the person may:
- Enter traffic
- Wander near water
- Get lost or disoriented
- Be unable to respond to their name or ask for help
Many autistic individuals who elope aren’t trying to escape—they’re trying to regulate, communicate, or feel safe.
Questions about autism?
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