There are some autistic children and adults who pick at their skin. One could scratch, pinch, rub, or pick at their skin without being aware of how often they do it. It can also occur when the person is stressed, bored, excited, or attempting to rectify an “uncomfortable feeling”.
The skin picking behavior is not the same for everyone with autism. Autism And Feet Obsession may appear as a repetitive behavior for some. In some people, it may become a habit that leads to skin damage. It’s crucial to understand why it’s happening so you can find safe ways to respond.
What Is Skin Picking?
Skin picking is characterized by repeatedly touching or scratching at the skin. It can be on a small uneven spot, or on another part of the skin.
Sometimes it will happen without you having to do anything. For example, a person might scratch their skin while watching television, at work, or while sitting, etc., in silence. They might not realize what they’re doing until it is pointed out to them.
Sometimes, the picking behavior may be done to eliminate an “uncomfortable sensation” or to alleviate stress.
Why Does Skin Picking Happen in Autism?
The cause of skin picking in those with autism isn’t a single cause. There may be variations in how a person processes their senses, communicates, feels, and acts repetitively when they have autism. These differences can affect how a person reacts to their body or environment.
There are some possible reasons:
Sensory Needs
Autistic children can be sensory-oriented. Choosing or rubbing the skin can create a relaxing, intriguing, or gratifying sensation. One could also have perceptible skin variations compared to others. A dry patch, scab, or rough area may become noticeable.
Stress and Anxiety
Sometimes, stress can result in repetitive behaviors. Picking can be a coping mechanism if a person feels overwhelmed, worried, or uncomfortable.
This may be more apparent with Hyperphagia in Autism, routine disruptions, challenging social situations, high activity, or stress.
Boredom
Sometimes, skin picking occurs at times when someone has little work to do. It could be helpful to have something to do during quiet or unstructured times: Repetitive actions.
Difficulty Communicating Feelings
An autistic person may not be able to tell you that they are anxious, uncomfortable, tired, or overwhelmed. These emotions don’t need to be verbal; they can be expressed by body language.
Not all skin picking is related to emotions. Examining the context of the behavior both before and after may help to determine potential patterns.
When Can Skin Picking Become a Concern?
Occasional touching/scratching does not have to be a serious issue. The worry is if the picking becomes excessive or if it hurts.
Consecutive picking may lead to:
- Redness or irritation
- Small cuts
- Bleeding
- Scabs
- Soreness
- Skin infections
- Slow healing
It can also be distressing for the person if they cannot stop it.
If the skin is damaged again, it is crucial to consult with a health care professional. They can look at the area and may be able to help determine whether another skin condition is affecting their behavior.
What can parents/caregivers do?
The first is to refrain from reacting in anger or with shame. Asking an individual to “stop picking” can be ineffective in eliminating the reason for the behavior.
Instead, try to observe when and where it occurs.
Use questions to ask them, such as:
- Does it occur in stressful circumstances?
- Does it occur when the person is bored?
- Does he/she prefer a specific part of the body?
- Is it more common in noisy/busy areas?
- Can the person be seen to be more relaxed post-pick?
Families might be able to identify possible triggers by monitoring these patterns.
Offer Safe Alternatives
If picking helps provide sensory input, another safe activity might be helpful.
As alternatives, it can be shown that:
- A sensory toy
- An item that is soft to the touch
- A stress ball
- Drawing or coloring
- Fidget objects
- Other hand activities to occupy hands
The aim is not to punish the behavior, but to offer an alternative to satisfy the person’s needs.
Create a Calmer Environment
Stress could be a trigger for skin picking in autism, and stress reduction may help. Some situations can be easier to manage with Visual Schedules for Autism, clear instructions, quiet areas, and advance warning of changes. A lower noise level or less crowd may also limit repetitive coping for a person who becomes overstimulated or over-sensitized by high noise levels or crowds.
Support Healthy Skin Care
If there are dry or irritated areas, moisturizing and treating them can be helpful, too. Rough skin, insect bites, eczema, or scabs can be picked on and noticed, which can lead to more picking.
Shorten fingernails to help minimize scratching or picking. These should be combined with attempts to learn the cause of the behavior; however, in some cases, you might need professional assistance.
When to Seek Professional Support?
If skin picking regularly damages the skin, makes it hard to deal with, or disrupts daily life, it may be beneficial to seek professional assistance.
To determine whether the skin is exhibiting signs of skin picking or other physical causes, a healthcare professional can examine the skin. A qualified therapist or behavioral professional can also help the family recognize patterns and create a support plan that’s specific to the family.
It should be a strategy that addresses the person’s needs, rather than just trying to get rid of the behavior.
Final Thoughts
There are various reasons why a person with autism picks at their skin, and ABA services Atlanta can help address sensory needs, stress, boredom, or difficulty conveying discomfort.
The right response, observation, safe alternatives, and professional support can help minimize harm and ease daily life. Primarily, the individual should be dealt with in a patient and respectful manner, and their needs should be understood.
