An orange balloon with a string attached to it on a white background.
The logo for steady strides aba is blue and orange.

How People with Autism Behave (and Why It’s Different for Everyone)

If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met… one person with autism. That’s because autism looks different for everyone. There isn’t a single “autistic behavior” — instead, there are common traits that may show up in unique ways depending on the person.


Common Behaviors in Autism

People with autism might:


  • Prefer routines and get upset when plans suddenly change
  • Repeat certain movements or sounds (like hand-flapping or humming)
  • Have intense interests in specific topics
  • Struggle with eye contact or social cues
  • Communicate differently — some may talk a lot, while others may not use words at all


These behaviors aren’t “bad” — they’re simply part of how someone experiences and interacts with the world.


Why Behaviors Happen

Autistic behaviors often serve a purpose. For example, stimming (like rocking or tapping) can help someone calm down or focus. Avoiding eye contact may reduce overwhelming feelings. When we understand the “why” behind behaviors, we can respond with more patience and support.


At Steady Strides ABA, we celebrate each child’s individuality while teaching skills that help them thrive. Our personalized ABA therapy programs in Texas and New Mexico include:



Want to better understand and support your child’s behaviors? Contact Steady Strides ABA today and let’s build progress together.


FAQs


  • 1. Do all people with autism behave the same way?

    No, autism is a spectrum — behaviors vary widely from person to person.


  • 2. Why do autistic people repeat behaviors?

    Repetitive behaviors can help manage emotions, reduce stress, or show excitement.


  • 3. Can ABA therapy help with challenging behaviors?

    Yes. ABA therapy teaches positive skills that reduce stress and encourage independence.


Reading about ABA is one thing. Experiencing your child’s progress is another.

Talk with one of our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to learn how therapy can help your child grow, communicate, and thrive — at home or in the community.

No commitment required.

Looking for Guidance?

We're Here for You!

Our dedicated professionals are committed to helping your child thrive. Connect with us to learn how our ABA therapy can make a difference.

Get In Touch With Our ABA Experts Today

A child with autism smiling while wearing a virtual reality headset in ABA therapy.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 28, 2025
Virtual reality offers a unique, engaging way to help children with autism develop essential life skills. Learn how this technology is transforming therapy.
A bored student with autism staring into the distance while a teacher writes on the chalkboard.
By Jane Miller November 28, 2025
Learn how to address classroom behavioral challenges in kids with autism using proven strategies. Explore effective techniques for better behavior in school.
A BCBA and little girl with autism laughing together on the living room floor during ABA therapy.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Autism is gaining more attention, but it’s not just a trend. Learn about the shift in understanding & why embracing neurodiversity is so important for society.
A toddler lying on the floor laughing and holding a toy car.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Discover how sensory needs affect children with autism and the best ways to address these challenges. Explore tips that can improve their daily experiences.
A teen girl with autism talking with a BCBA on a couch.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 27, 2025
Discover how ABA therapy can continue to benefit teenagers with autism, helping them improve social skills, manage emotions, and prepare for independence.
A BCBA and young boy with autism smiling while baking together in the kitchen.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 27, 2025
Learn how negative reinforcement in ABA therapy encourages positive behaviors in children by removing negative stimuli. Learn more about its role and benefits.
A little boy with autism smiling and reaching toward the camera by a window.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Is ADHD or autism more difficult for kids? Explore the challenges of each condition and discover how behavioral therapies can help children succeed and grow.
A young boy with autism facing a wall with one hand raised and the other on the wall.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Discover how to help an autistic child who hits themselves with actionable tips, emotional support, and professional ABA therapy from Steady Strides ABA.
Smiling parents sitting on a couch with their autistic baby.
By Jane Miller November 24, 2025
Discover key autism risk factors that every parent should know. Our blog explores the crucial aspects that may influence autism development in children.
Young girl with autism laughing while working on homework with an ABA therapist.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 24, 2025
Explore how ABA interventions can improve reading, math, attention, and classroom behavior. See how ABA creates lasting changes in the classroom and beyond.
Show More