Blindism
Blindisms are stereotyped behaviors sometimes found in visually impaired toddlers or children.[1] Blindism behaviors range from body rocking, head swaying, eye rubbing, head banging, spinning to finger flicking.[1][2] These behaviors are repetitive and serve no specific goals, but can calm or soothe the child if they are distressed.
Causes
Causes of blindisms[3] include
- The inadequacy of sensory stimulation causes the child to seek stimulation using his own body
- Social deprivation due to limited interaction with other people
- Limited physical and motor activity as the child cannot easily move to another place and change his environment to satisfy the basic need for movement and physical activity
- Lack of ability to imitate and learn socially acceptable behaviors
Effects
Blindisms can lead to serious consequences if not corrected. Children displaying blindism behaviors may experience teasing or social isolation by other children. Additionally, the skin around the eye may discolor and become callus-like due to constant poking and rubbing.[1]
Prevention
Early intervention may be helpful in preventing children from displaying blindism behaviors. A qualified teacher should arrange an early education program to help develop accurate and effective use of the child's senses. The parents should also be included in such programs together with their visually impaired children as most parents are unaware of techniques used to teach visually impaired children.[1]
References
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nl:Blindisme- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 http://www.ksb.k12.ky.us/Parents/Documents/Newsletter/Summer%20PP%2007.pdf, Blindisms–What are they? What can be Done to Correct Them?.
- ↑ http://www.tsbvi.edu/Outreach/seehear/spring02/blindisms.htm, Beating Blindisms.
- ↑ Geraldine T. Scholl, 1986, Foundations of Education for Blind and Visually Handicapped Children and Youth: Theory and Practice.
