Childhood gratification syndrome: Demystifying the clinical conundrum with a narrative literature review of the past 5 decades

Abstract

Background: Childhood gratification syndrome (CGS) refers to self-stimulatory or masturbatory behaviors in children, which may have an onset as early as in infancy (IGS). Aim: The aim of this review is to understand the various clinical manifestations of CGS/IGS and their clinical differentiation from commonly misdiagnosed neurological and physical illnesses and to formulate a preliminary approach to their diagnosis and management. Methods: This narrative review is based on a search of literature over the past 50 years (1972–2022) in three online databases (PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar). Results: The behaviors are episodic, occurring for brief periods, involving posturing, stereotypical limb movements, pubic pressure with autonomic hyperactivity, and postepisodic lethargy. They mimic seizures, movement disorders, abdominal pain, and tics. The paper also highlights the gap in the current knowledge to guide future research in the area. CGS usually represents nonpathological “pleasure-seeking” habits of childhood, but at times, it may become problematic for the child and his family. A careful history and videotape analysis of the events confirms the diagnosis and behavioral therapy with parental reassurance as the mainstay of treatment. Conclusion: A better understanding and clinical awareness of the CGS are necessary to prevent misdiagnosis and delay in appropriate intervention.