What is scripting? Scripting can be defined as taking dialogue that one heard someone else say (usually a favorite cartoon, TV, or movie character) and applying it in a repetitive fashion. Sometimes this language output sounds functional, yet, many times it comes across as “lost” or disconnected to the here and now. Scripting is one of the hallmark features of autism spectrum disorder. It is considered to be repetitive, perseverative, and a stereotypical behavior.
During downtime or idle moments, scripting may be at its peak. When we have moments of “vegging out” we choose to relax and just chill out. We get comfortable and cozy. Comfort can appear very different to people with unique socio-behavioral profiles than the typical folk. Scripters find enjoyment and comfort in this sameness. That is difficult to compete with.
In the midst of these winter months, we tend to spend more time indoors, enjoying downtime. These inactive moments lead those with autism, who have scripting in their repertoire, to turn inward and find their comfort zone, hence begin scripting, and scripting, and scripting. As with all behaviors that lend themselves to turn others off socially, we want to replace these behaviors with pro-social ones that look and act similarly.
For example, someone in your family scripts from past train rides they have taken, specifically the announcements they have heard the train engineers make. Try being proactive. Set up this individual for social success.
Replace these idle times of scripting with a functional activity that is similar, yet equally reinforcing. He can scrapbook with train tickets, images, and train schedules. Along with these items, he can type the scripts and then attach the announcements to each page of the scrapbook.
This is a way to use his scripting in a functional and pro-social way. A possible benefit may be that others engage him in conversation, which leads to verbalizing these train announcements in a real-life conversation.
Reinforcement, reiteration, and repetition can take place. This will lead to positively practicing pro-social skills before non-preferred events take place.
Creating an activity schedule consisting of photos and written cues help keep one with autism spectrum disorder engaged during these chilly months.
