What are stereotyped behaviors?

Patterned Movements: "stereotyped behaviors" typically refer to repetitive, patterned movements that are usually rhythmic in nature. These are most commonly associated with autism spectrum disorders, but are sometimes seen in other disorders like tardive dyskinesia, schizophrenia and mental retardation. Examples include head banging, rocking, hand-wringing or flapping, marching in place, etc.

See below: Also called stereotyped behavior. Psychiatry. Persistent mechanical repetition of speech or movement, sometimes occurring as a symptom of schizophrenia, autism, or other mental disorder. A tendency to think or act in rigid, repetitive, and often meaningless patterns.