Stereotypic Movement Disorder - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Stereotypic movement disorder is a disorder of childhood involving repetitive, nonfunctional motor behavior (e.g., hand waving or head banging). Stereotypic movements occur in people of any age. Stereotypic movement disorder is more common among boys than girls. This condition most often affects children with neurological (brain and nerve) disorders and/or mental retardation. It can occur at any age and is more common in boys than in girls. Stereotypic movements are common in infants and toddlers. Some estimates suggest that 15–20 percent of children under age three exhibit some kind of rhythmic, repetitive movements. Certainly thumb sucking and body rocking are common self-comforting mechanisms in the very young. This type of repeated movement is temporary, and usually ends by age three or four. Some childhood habits remain unnoticed and can persist untreated, even when they interfere with the child's optimal functioning.