Infantile Gratification Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction

Infantile gratification syndrome is self-genital stimulatory or masturbatory conduct with a tendency to form a pattern of habits. Gratification in young children is not pathological. Misdiagnosis is not uncommon; it is confused with epilepsy (it is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures due to abnormal brain activity), paroxysmal dystonia (a condition characterized by sudden and temporary episodes of involuntary muscle contractions or spasms), dyskinesia (a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, abnormal, and often repetitive movements), or abdominal pain. Most parents do not report this because of the social stigma associated with infantile gratification syndrome as well as the lack of sex education and communication channels.

What Is the History Of Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

• Infantile gratification syndrome was first recognized in 1909, but to date, limited studies are available.

• It is a very common behavior in children. (90 to 94 % in males and 50 to 55 % in females).

• Sometimes it can mimic epilepsy.

What Are Other Names for Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

Infantile gratification syndrome is also known as:

• Infantile masturbation.

• Benign idiopathic infantile dyskinesia.

Infantile gratification syndrome occurs from three months of age to three years of age, and again, a peak is seen in adolescents. Infantile gratification syndrome does not involve touching private parts, which confuses with reflux, seizures, or spasms. It can happen anywhere in car seats, high chairs, or floors.

What Causes Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

• The exact cause is unknown.

• It is a very common behavior in children.

• It is linked to a decrease in estradiol (an estrogen steroid hormone) but not other sex hormones.

• Environmental factors can be triggering agents.

• Self tension.

• Excitement.

• Sometimes associated with UTIs (urinary tract infections)

How to Diagnose Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

• A detailed physical examination of the kid will help in diagnosis. Generally, no injuries are present on the genitalia.

• A detailed history of these prolonged episodes should be taken. Parents must keep a history of the duration of these episodes.

• A neurological examination can be performed if needed.

• Home or video recording will aid in providing missing information. It will help to illustrate the behavior of children.

• If left undiagnosed, it can lead to excessive discomfort and disability in kids.

What Are the Signs of Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

The following are the signs of infantile gratification syndrome:

• The onset of infantile gratification syndrome is three months to three years.

• A stereotyped outbreak of variable duration, like rubbing and stroking the genitals against the hard surface.

• Normal genitals were observed on examination.

• Facial flushing and excessive sweating.

• Children may produce sounds like quiet grunting and even talking to imaginary persons.

• Intact consciousness.

• Repeated jerky spasms (confused with epilepsy).

• Pressure on the perineum with typical posture on lower extremities, which includes repeated adduction of thighs or twitching and moving one or more limbs for several minutes.

• The children will stop the episode once interrupted or distracted by parents.

• The episodes are more frequent if the children are left alone.

Other signs in toddlers are:

• The child may see or touch the genitals of a new sibling or peer.

• They may show their private parts to other kids.

• Try to watch adult nudity.

• Sit or stand very close to peers.

Other signs In infants are:

• Crossing the legs.

• Get upset easily.

• Zoning out.

• Grunting.

• Sweating.

• May fall asleep after the activity.

How Long Is One Episode of Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

The exact frequency and duration of these episodes are unknown but can range from two to three episodes per day for three to four minutes to 20 episodes per day for five to six minutes over four to six months. Episodes never occur in sleep. Children are not alert or aware.

How to Manage Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

• A pediatrician must be able to diagnose it accurately.

• Usually, the child stops the behavior of being a distraction by the parents.

• Parent counseling and education make them understand the importance of positive and negative reinforcement. It should be explained to parents that infantile gratification syndrome is a very common behavior in kids and babies. Scolding, threatening, or shaming the child will not help to resolve infantile gratification syndrome.

• The following medications can be used such as Escitalopram is a highly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is the therapeutically active S-enantiomer of Citalopram. Aripiprazole is used to treat behavior problems.

• Behavior therapy also known as behavior modification or behaviorism, is a psychological approach that focuses on understanding and changing behaviors. It is based on the principles of learning theory, particularly operant conditioning, and aims to address problematic behaviors by modifying environmental factors and reinforcing desired behaviors. Various sessions with children about play and distractions can be modeled.

• Psychoeducation is an important component of many therapeutic approaches and can be beneficial in alleviating various disorders. It involves providing education and information to individuals and their families about their specific condition or disorder. The primary goal of psychoeducation is to increase understanding and knowledge about the disorder, its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and coping strategies.

• Children with these conditions should take part in various clinical trials available for the disorder so that there is adequate research that will help in better management of the syndrome.

What Can Parents of Children With Infantile Gratification Syndrome Do?

Parents' behavior and attitude will make a lot of difference. Different ways in which the parents can contribute are:

• Parents need to understand that it is often an accidental behavior discovered by the child in exploring their body.

• Parents can make them learn about their private parts.

• Parents should try and make the child learn about self-control.

• Parents should build a good relationship and rapport with a child.

• Parents should reassure their children and make them comfortable.

• It is important to approach the topic with care, taking into consideration various aspects. When discussing behavior with children, it is beneficial to gently address the matter. Explaining to them the significance of appropriate behavior in both public and private settings can be valuable.

• Parents must try and engage in activities together with children to strengthen their bond. For instance, spend time playing and being present for them.

• If a child shows resistance or becomes upset when parents attempt to redirect their attention, it may be helpful to approach the situation by gently inquiring about their needs. For example, parents can ask if there is any discomfort, such as itching in the genital area, or if their underpants feel tight.

• Consider addressing the issues related to social stigma.

• Do not embarrass the kid, as it will increase masturbatory behavior.

When Should Parents Worry About Infantile Gratification Syndrome?

Infantile gratification syndrome regresses with age. Parents should worry about the following scenario. When self-stimulation in a child is associated with anger.

• If the child has pain.
• If the child does not get distracted easily.
• The psycho-sexual behavior is regular and frequent.

Conclusion

Infantile gratification syndrome occurs as the normal development of the psycho-sexual aspect in children, which leads to analyzing their sexuality and its pleasures. It is important to diagnose infantile gratitude syndrome as it may cause unnecessary tests and diagnoses. Usually, Infantile gratification syndrome regresses with age. Explain to the child the importance of masturbation and that people who do it are normal. Still, the privacy rules should be followed as masturbation in public is unacceptable behavior. Behavior treatment, as well as psycho-education, will be the first line of treatment.