Repetitive Behavior

Repetition
Published by HOPES
(Huntington's Outreach Project for Education, at Stanford University)

Following damage to the basal ganglia and the caudate nucleus, individuals with HD may become stuck on one idea or activity.

Inflexible thoughts and behavior may also make it difficult for an individual to change from one activity or idea to another or to deal with changes in routines.

These behaviors are often associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). True OCD, however, is uncommon in HD patients.

Another possible cause of repetitive behavior is that legitimate needs of the individual are not being met. He or she may repeat a request in hopes of being understood.