Do we have this spinning thing mixed up? Don't most kids like to spin? I really think this isn't exclusive to autism. My son spins in the same way I used to--just for the feel of it.
I always remember my siblings spinning--we would put blindfolds on and spin away. We had a pole in our basement, and we'd spin around that pole endlessly until our hands burned. We did it to music, or when we we're thinking about what to do--anytime.
My son was diagnosed with a spectrum disorder, and he spins--but I don't think it's because he has autism! I just think he loves to spread his arms, look up to the ceiling and spin like kids do. Now, if he wanted to spin cups and plates constantly then I'd attribute that to autism. Honestly, I've never witnessed an autistic person spinning. I have noticed them spinning objects, but not their bodies.
I just think kids like to spin. As adults we learn what's socially appropriate and we don't spin anymore. Honestly, when I see an adult swaying back and forth on their heels, I think it's a bit strange. I don't think oh, they must be autistic. These particular adults I've observed are normal in every way--speech, mannerism--yet, they rock back and forth. It just seems odd to me for a professional to be rocking back and forth as if they were rocking a baby. I don't see this in males--only the females.
equinn