8 year hits self for fun????

[nessa1981]

my son is 8 years old, and for the past several years he has been hitting himself. just recently i noticed that he is hitting himself so hard that he is leaving welts on his legs and buttox. however, when he hits himself, he is not angry, just overly excited. any ideas why?

[nessa1981]

thankyou to both of your replies, and i will inquire to a doctor, especially about the "sensory seeker" thing suggested.

[specialmom]

Sometimes the nervous system can be a little out of whack.  My son is what they call a "sensory seeker" and his nervous system sends an impulse for input.  This would make him jump off of something for that "bang" onto his feet.  If he gives a hi five, it is kind of hard for the inpact.  Some kids that are sensory seekers are also somewhat or completely non responsive to pain from it as it is feeding the nervous system what it needs.  I'd think of other ways he can get that input----------  my son is 6.5 and we have a cobblestone set that he can hammer the  heck out of these pegs.  You could get a kick boxing or boxing piece of equipment that he can do either with--------  we have a sponge bob boxing bag and gloves.  He will hit that to get input.  Deep pressure goes hand and hand with this impulse so something like swimming may quiet his nervous system as well.  I have lots of other activities if you would like more  ideas.  good luck

[margypops]

I asked that as I wondered if any jealousy was involved, he may be feeling left out,to leave welts he must be hitting himself quite severely .It is possible that you should really ask your Doctor what he thinks as you may need some councelling for him as to why he is doing it good Luck

[nessa1981]

I do stop him whenever he does it, telling him that he shouldn't hurt himself. He has a younger sister.

[margypops]

When you see him do this do you stop him ? distract him , tell him its not a good idea, what is your reaction.?Has he other siblings, older or younger ..