Is there an association between autism and trichotillomania?

Yes: There are multiple behaviors linked with the autistic spectrum disorder. Many repetitive behaviors such as hair pulling are included.

At times : Individuals with autism may have obsessive compulsive disorder and trichotillomania may be the compulsive behavior they display. Treating ocd can be difficult in all patients and even more so in patients with autism. A combination of behavioral interventions with medications may be necessary. It is important to rule out a medical cause such pandas as this would have additional treatment options.