For individuals engaging in stimming behaviors, what does the rubber band provide for emotional regulation?

Answer

Necessary, repetitive sensory input that helps regulate an overwhelmed emotional state.

Stimming, or self-stimulatory behaviors, serve the purpose of managing sensory intake or discharging excess nervous energy. When an individual is anxious, their system might be overwhelmed (over-stimulated) or conversely, feeling disconnected and craving sensation (under-stimulated). The rubber band meets these needs by providing predictable, repetitive sensory input. Whether through gentle rolling or the sharp feedback of a snap, this input helps regulate the emotional state by managing the system's sensory load or discharge requirements.

For individuals engaging in stimming behaviors, what does the rubber band provide for emotional regulation?

#Videos

Rubber Bands Can Help Anxiety-Here's How - YouTube

behaviormental healthrubber bandanxietycoping mechanism