When an autistic child hits themselves, it’s usually their way of communicating distress, not a desire to get hurt.
This behavior among autistic children often shows up when emotions, sensory input, or demands feel like too much. Understanding the reason behind it is the first step toward helping it stop.
Why autistic children hit themselves
Self-hitting is considered a form of self-injurious behavior, and it’s more common in autistic children who struggle with communication, sensory regulation, or emotional control. The behavior usually serves a purpose.
Common reasons include:
- Feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated
- Difficulty expressing wants or discomfort
- Escaping a task that feels too hard
- Seeking sensory input or relief
- Physical discomfort or fatigue
Understanding why the behavior happens is the most important step. Once we know the function, we can respond in a way that actually helps.
What helps reduce self-hitting in autistic children
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but these strategies are consistently effective when used together and consistently.
Teach a safer replacement behavior
Telling a child “don’t hit” isn’t enough. We need to show them what to do instead. That might look like:
- Asking for help using words, signs, or pictures
- Pointing to a break card
- Squeezing a fidget or sensory toy
- Using deep pressure or movement instead of hitting
The replacement behavior should meet the same need as the self-hitting.
Reduce triggers and overwhelm
Pay attention to patterns. If self-hitting happens during loud activities, long demands, or sudden transitions, small changes can make a big difference:
- Shorten tasks
- Offer choices
- Add movement or sensory breaks
- Prepare the child before transitions
Lower stress often leads to fewer behaviors.
Respond calmly and consistently
Big reactions can unintentionally reinforce self-hitting. I coach caregivers to stay calm, block the behavior if needed for safety, and immediately prompt the safer alternative. Consistency across caregivers is key.
Reinforce safe behaviors
Any time the child uses safe hands, communicates appropriately, or gets through a tough moment without hitting, reinforce it. Praise, attention, or access to a preferred item helps strengthen those positive behaviors.
When professional support is needed
If self-hitting is happening often, causing injury, or increasing over time, it’s important to seek professional help. ABA therapy focuses on understanding the function of behavior and teaching practical, individualized skills that improve daily life.
Get support that makes a real difference
At Kids N Heart ABA, we help autistic children reduce self-injurious behaviors and build meaningful, functional skills that last. We proudly serve families across North Carolina with personalized ABA therapy services, including:
If your autistic child is hitting themselves and you’re not sure what to do next, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Contact Kids N Heart ABA today and let’s create a safer, calmer path forward—together.
FAQs
Is self-hitting common in autistic children?
Yes. Many autistic children engage in self-hitting during moments of stress, frustration, or sensory overload.
Should I stop my autistic child from hitting themselves physically?
Safety comes first. You can gently block the behavior, but it’s most effective when paired with teaching a safer replacement skill.
Can ABA therapy help with self-hitting?
Yes. ABA therapy helps identify why the behavior is happening and teaches safer ways to communicate and cope.
Sources:
- https://autism.org/causes-and-interventions-for-self-injury-in-autism/
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-self-harm/
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/self-injurious-behaviour/all-audiences
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3990505/
- https://www.rileychildrens.org/connections/head-banging-punching-biting-handling-self-harm-behaviors-in-kids