The reasons for smearing 

The reason an autistic person might smear their faeces could be medical, sensory or behavioural and include: 

• feeling unwell or in pain 
• being reluctant to wipe because toilet paper is too harsh 
• not knowing where faeces need to go 
• seeking out sensation from texture, smell or movement of arms during smearing action 
• seeking attention/wanting a reaction 
• fear of toilets. 

What you can do 

You could try to: 

• visit the GP or dentist to make sure that there are no physical reasons involved, like being in pain 
• replace toilet paper with wet wipes, or a tepid shower 
• teach them the wiping process, ‘hand over hand’ ie putting your hand on top of their hand as they wipe 
• provide an alternative with a similar texture, eg papier-mâché, Gelli Baff, gloop (corn flour and water), finger painting, play-dough 
• provide alternative activities at times when the smearing usually takes place 
• make a structured timetable of the day, showing times when the person can do appropriate smearing activities 
• avoid asking the person to clear up after themselves, or telling them off, as this may reinforce the behaviour 
• use minimal interaction, avoid paying too much attention or showing too much reaction 
• set up a toileting routine. 
   

Further information 

• Toilet training and the autism spectrum, Eve Fleming and Lorraine MacAlister, 2015. 
• Challenging Behaviour Foundation, 0300 666 0126.