Subthalamic nucleus pathology contributes to repetitive behavior expression and is reversed by environmental enrichment.

Repetitive motor behaviors are common in neurodevelopmental, psychiatric and neurological disorders. Despite their prevalence in certain clinical populations, our understanding of the neurobiological cause of repetitive behavior is lacking. Likewise, not knowing the pathophysiology has precluded efforts to find effective drug treatments.

Further characterization of repetitive behavior in C58 mice: developmental trajectory and effects of environmental enrichment.

Aberrant repetitive behaviors are commonly observed in a variety of neurodevelopmental, neurological, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Little is known about the specific neurobiological mechanisms that underlie such behaviors, however, and effective treatments are lacking. Valid animal models can aid substantially in identifying pathophysiological factors mediating aberrant repetitive behavior and aid in treatment development.

Hand puppets and dolls in psychotherapy with children.

Hand puppets and dolls can be used in psychotherapy with children to establish rapport, to help children address specific issues, and to serve as fantasy substitutes for stress-provoking figures in the environment. They are easily obtained or can be made by the therapist.