Autism and PICA
For the self-diagnosed, the world of PICA is rather unknown. But for parents of some autistic kids, PICA is one of the things that keeps them awake at night.
PICA is not an acronym but rather a term used to describe a medical condition characterized by the persistent and abnormal desire to eat non-food items. PICA is derived from the Latin word “pica,” which refers to the magpie bird known for its indiscriminate eating habits.
The condition is sometimes observed in autistic children with profound support needs. However, it can affect anyone.
While the exact cause of PICA is not fully understood, it is believed to be associated with various factors, including nutritional deficiencies (such as iron or zinc deficiency), mental health disorders (such as obsessive-compulsive disorder), cultural practices, or sensory exploration.
Common non-food items consumed by individuals with PICA can include but are not limited to soil, hair, ice, clay, chalk, paper, soap, and even potentially harmful substances like paint chips or batteries.
PICA can have serious health consequences, including gastrointestinal blockages, poisoning, infections, or dental damage. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals experiencing PICA or their caregivers to seek medical attention to address the underlying causes and provide appropriate treatment. Unfortunately, it remains largely unaddressed due to parental fears of judgment and worse.
One parent recounts their experience:
Speaking of worse, during [my child’s] previous intense phase of PICA, our ABA center reported us to Child Protective Services. Although the case was promptly closed, it left me with deep trust issues. The ABA center, which I had trusted for five years, reported me to CPS simply because I openly discussed a common behaviour in autistic children so they could help [my child]. While they did apologize later, the damage was done.
Since then, discussing PICA has been incredibly difficult for me. Not only do I struggle to share with my followers, but I also face challenges in communicating privately with [my child’s] care team. [My child’s] PICA is not limited to home; it occurs during therapy sessions and at school as well. Yet, it seems nobody can pinpoint the underlying cause.
Before you get triggered to rant against ABA providers in general, be sure to educate yourself about Mandated Reporters. As a Mandated Reporter myself (all teachers in California are Mandated Reporters), I know from my training that we’re taught to report any suspicion and let the investigators sort out the truth of the matter. It sounds like what the parent above shared.
But put yourself in the parent’s shoes. The child simply won’t stop trying to eat these dangerous non-food items. Could you possibly rid your home of anything and everything that a child / young person could possibly try to eat? Imagine what this parent’s home looks like. Remember, something as small as a quarter (metal coin) can be swallowed, causing a blockage that could kill the child.
What would you do if you had such a child?