A girl with pica. Pica is an eating disorder in which a person eats items that are not usually considered food. Pica can cause health problems depending on what your child eats and how often the behavior occurs. Complications of pica include
The incidence of pica in children dramatically decreases with age, with only 10% of kids older than 12 reporting any pica behavior. Pica and Co-Occurring Disorders. There are many reasons why a person may exhibit pica.
Such details provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for Reasons Pica Behaviors Occurring.
Behavioral factors seen in individuals with autism and intellectual differences that can contribute to developing pica include sensory seeking behaviors, automatic reinforcement, and seeking attention from caregivers (Fields et al., 2021).
Such details provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for Reasons Pica Behaviors Occurring.
How is Pica Treated?2,3,12,13. The first-line treatment for pica involves testing for mineral or nutrient deficiencies and correcting those. In many cases, concerning eating behaviors disappear as deficiencies are corrected.
Furthermore, visual representations like the one above help us fully grasp the concept of Reasons Pica Behaviors Occurring.
Behavioral Assessment: Behavioral specialists, such as those who practice ABA therapy, will assess the circumstances and triggers around the pica behavior. This helps in understanding the root cause and developing a treatment plan. How ABA Therapy Helps Manage Pica in Autism.
