Beyond Stimming: The Science, Research, and Role of Cognitive Focus Devices

In our last blog, we explored stimming, what it is, why it happens, and how it supports emotional regulation. But stimming is just one part of a much larger picture: sensory regulation.

For neurodivergent individuals, managing sensory input isn’t always automatic. The brain may struggle to filter, amplify, or dampen sensory signals in a way that maintains balance. This can lead to sensory overload, understimulation, or difficulty maintaining focus.

So, what exactly happens in the brain and body when we stim? What does the latest research say about its role in self-regulation, cognition, and social connection? And how can Cognitive Focus Devices (CFDs) like the ones we create at Fidgets & Widgets help?

 

How Sensory Processing Shapes Stimming

The Brain’s Sensory Control Centre

All sensory input (what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell) passes through the thalamus, a key structure in the brain that acts as a relay station. The thalamus decides which signals to prioritise and which to filter out.

For neurotypical individuals, this process happens relatively smoothly. But for neurodivergent individuals, the thalamus may process signals differently, leading to:

• Sensory hypersensitivity – Everyday sensations (bright lights, background noise, the feel of clothing) can become overwhelming.

• Sensory hyposensitivity – The brain doesn’t register enough sensory input, leading to a need for extra stimulation.

Stimming acts as a way to override or supplement sensory input, helping to create a more comfortable balance.

 

The Autonomic Nervous System: Fight, Flight, or Focus?

Another key player in sensory regulation is the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. It has two main parts:

• The Sympathetic Nervous System (fight-or-flight) – Prepares the body for stress by increasing heart rate and alertness.

• The Parasympathetic Nervous System (rest-and-digest) – Helps the body relax and recover.

 

Stimming helps shift between these two states:

• If overstimulated, rhythmic movements like rocking or tapping can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to calm the body.

• If understimulated, fidgeting or engaging in tactile input (like using a textured CFD) can stimulate the nervous system, increasing focus and engagement.

This is where Cognitive Focus Devices (CFDs) come in. By providing a structured way to engage with sensory input, they support self-regulation without distraction.

 

Latest Research on Stimming and Sensory Regulation

Recent studies highlight why stimming is an essential and beneficial behavior rather than something to be discouraged or eliminated.

 

1. Stimming as an Adaptive Mechanism

A 2019 study published in Autism found that autistic adults overwhelmingly describe stimming as a vital self-regulatory tool. Participants reported that stimming helped them:

• Manage emotions (both positive and negative)

• Increase concentration

• Prevent sensory overload

This research challenges outdated interventions that aim to reduce stimming, instead emphasising the need to support it in a way that is safe and socially accepted.

 

2. Correlation Between Repetitive Behaviors and Sensory Sensitivity

A 2023 study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found a direct link between sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviors (such as stimming) in both autistic and non-autistic individuals. The study confirmed that:

• When individuals were prevented from stimming, they experienced greater stress and decreased self-efficacy.

• Repetitive behaviors correlate with sensory sensitivity, meaning they help individuals regulate overwhelming or insufficient sensory input.

These findings reinforce the idea that stimming is a functional and necessary part of the neurodivergent experience.

3. Stimming as a Tool for Social Connection

New research is also revealing a social dimension to stimming. A 2024 study published in Neurodiversity found that autistic adults often use stimming as a way to connect with others.

• Shared stimming behaviors can foster a sense of community and mutual understanding.

• Recognising and respecting stimming can create more inclusive social environments.

This challenges the misconception that stimming is always isolating; it can also be a form of non-verbal communication and self-expression.

The Role of Cognitive Focus Devices (CFDs) in Sensory Regulation

At Fidgets & Widgets, we create 3D-printed CFDs designed to support sensory regulation in a way that is safe, portable, and tailored to individual needs.

 

How Our CFDs Align with Research Findings

1. Fidgets for Proprioceptive and Tactile Feedback

(Examples: Infinity Cube, Spiky Grip, Thumb Joystick)

✔ Helps regulate body awareness and focus through repetitive motion.

✔ Activates deep pressure receptors, sending calming signals to the brain.

2. Flexible, Articulated Toys for Movement Stimming

(Examples: Flexi-Pet Axolotl, Vampire Bat)🦇

✔ Provides fluid, non-repetitive movement that is soothing without distraction.

✔ Engages the hands in low-resistance motion, reducing stress.

3. Sensory Stimulation Devices for Hyposensitivity Needs

(Examples: Chewable Jewellery, Tactile Keyrings)

✔ Offers stronger sensory input to prevent understimulation.

✔ Activates the trigeminal nerve, promoting relaxation and focus.

 

Why Stimming Should Be Supported, Not Suppressed

Traditional approaches to neurodivergence have often focused on reducing stimming, but research now shows that suppressing self-stimulatory behaviors can:

❌ Increase anxiety and sensory distress

❌ Reduce concentration and cognitive function

❌ Negatively impact mental health

Instead of discouraging stimming, we should focus on providing tools that help individuals self-regulate in ways that feel comfortable, natural, and effective.

That’s exactly what we do at Fidgets  Widgets. Our 3D-printed CFDs are designed not just as fidgets, but as sensory regulation tools that:

✔ Enhance focus without being distracting.

✔ Provide safe, durable, and sustainable alternatives to common stimming behaviors.

✔ Offer a discreet way to stim in schools, workplaces, or social settings.

 

Conclusion

Stimming is more than just movement, it’s a fundamental part of sensory regulation and self-expression. By understanding the science behind it, we can create better tools, environments, and social attitudes that empower neurodivergent individuals rather than forcing them to conform.

At Fidgets  Widgets, we’re committed to designing 3D-printed solutions that support stimming as a natural, necessary part of the neurodivergent experience. If you’re looking for sensory-friendly tools to help with self-regulation, check out our full range of Cognitive Focus Devices (CFDs) at www.fidgetsandwidgets.co.uk.

Let’s move beyond misconceptions about stimming and start embracing the science of supporting it.