The short answer to this question is: scripting is a form of vocal stimming. Scripting is an informal name for echolalia. It looks like a person repeating words or phrases that they have heard, in person, on television, in movies, in passing, etc., used for sensory input.
Why Do Autistic People Script?
As an Autistic person, there are two main reasons why I script: either I am happy and excited or I am frustrated and anxious. The scripts I have come from my environment or from words I heard friends say. Below are some of my most common scripts:
- “Don’t give up; try again”- I heard this from the stuffed animal claw machine in Walmart
- “I’ll be back in a hot minute”- I heard this from a former counselor of mine
- “Welcome to the party”- I heard my mom say this at my graduation party
For me, it feels good to script. It relieves stress and anxiety. I feel more calm and in control when I script.
Scripting is telling sign of how Autistic people are feeling. For example, if they start scripting heavily and slowly become less and less engaged in the conversation, people will know that they are stressed or something is upsetting them or they are trying to communicate something.
Also, scripting is used socially. Even neurotypical people script. For example, when someone asks you, “how are you?,” most people respond with, “I’m good, how are you?” People aren’t really thinking about their response. It’s just an automatic response. It is a preprogrammed response which you heard and then utilized in a conversation with someone else.
Should I encourage the Autistic person in my life to stop scripting?
Scripting serves a purpose for Autistic people; it should not be stopped. Yes, sometimes it makes a person appear “socially awkward,” and it appears that a person has stopped engaging in conversation. However, scripting is a communication and self-regulating tool and should not be forcefully stopped or discouraged.