UNPACKING STRESSOR-DRIVEN BEHAVIORS IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: A BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The current study explores the role of internal and external stressors in the development and maintenance of self-injurious behaviours (SIBs) and self-stimulatory behaviours (SSBs) in a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Using a qualitative intrinsic case study, detailed behavioural observations, parental interviews, and contextual analysis were conducted to identify the environmental, sensory, neurobiological, and psychosocial stressors associated with these behaviours. Thematic analysis revealed five major themes: sensory triggers, environmental stressors, neurobiological vulnerability, functional behaviour, and psychosocial stress. Findings indicate that behaviours such as head-hitting, self-biting, and hand-flapping are closely linked to sensory hypersensitivities, disruptions in routine, social demands, and caregiver emotional states. These behaviours often serve regulatory or communicative functions, highlighting the need for function-based interventions such as functional communication training (FCT) and sensory integration approaches. The study emphasizes the importance of a biopsychosocial framework in assessing and addressing SIBs and SSBs in children with ASD, and advocates for caregiver support, environmental structuring, and individualized communication strategies as part of comprehensive intervention planning.