Chronobiological aspects of stereotypy
Brusca, R.
American Journal of Mental Deficiency 89(6): 650-652
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9351 PMID: 4003461 Document Number: 255440
An area of research concerned with the temporal structure of stereotypic behavior, namely, the chronobiology of stereotypy, was reviewed. Nine studies in which investigators examined the long-term temporal structure of stereotypy of mentally retarded individuals were reviewed. Seven of them indicated that stereotypy occurs in a rhythmic pattern over time. The origins of these patterns were related to both exogenous and endogenous factors, such as staff and activity changes, metabolic functions, and the existence of a rest-activity cycle.