Sensory Processing Disorder
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects the way that the body receives, processes, and responds to sensory information from the environment. It is sometimes referred to as "sensory integration disorder" or "sensory processing dysfunction." It is important to note that all people have sensory processing needs, but some individuals find it easier to meet their sensory needs internally or act upon their environment to meet the need, while others struggle to recognize and regulate sensory processing
Sensory Processing has to do with how we process coming in from all 5 senses, plus some! Our senses include:
Auditory (hearing), Olfactory (smell), Gustatory (taste), Tactile (touch), and Visual (see). Other “hidden” senses include the Proprioceptive sense, which helps us perceive the location and movements of our body. The proprioceptive system gives our bodies information about joint position and movement, muscle force, tone, and effort. Our Vestibular sense is housed in the inner. This sense provides our brain with information about where we are in space. This sense helps us know if we are spinning, upside down, or laying sideways!
Sensory processing difficulties can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the individual's unique pattern of sensory processing strengths and weaknesses. Some people with SPD may be oversensitive to certain stimuli, such as loud noises or bright lights, while others may be underresponsive to sensory input, such as pain or temperature. Some may have difficulty with tasks that require balance or coordination, while others may have trouble with tasks that require fine motor skills, such as writing or using scissors.
There are several different theories about the causes of SPD, but it is generally thought to be a neurological disorder that results from a dysfunction in the way that the brain processes sensory information. It is often associated with other conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and developmental delays.
Sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors are common in children with sensory processing disorder (SPD). Sensory-seeking behaviors are actions that a child takes in order to seek out or increase sensory input, while sensory-avoiding behaviors are actions that a child takes in order to avoid or reduce sensory input. These behaviors can occur in any of the senses and can have a significant impact on a child's daily functioning and quality of life.
Sensory-seeking behaviors may include:
Touching or rubbing objects or surfaces excessively
Seeking out rough or fast movement, such as spinning or crashing into objects
Seeking out loud noises or music
Seeking out strong odors or flavors
Seeking out visual stimuli, such as flashing lights or fast-moving objects
Sensory avoiding behaviors may include:
Refusing to wear certain types of clothing or avoid certain textures
Avoiding loud noises or bright lights
Avoiding strong odors or flavors
Avoiding activities that involve movement or touch
Avoiding eye contact or visual stimuli
It's important to note that sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors can both be part of the same individual's sensory profile and can manifest in different ways in different situations. A person can be an over-responder in one sensory area, and an under-responder in another sensory area. Sensory processing patterns can vary across environments as well!
There are a number of strategies that can be helpful in managing sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors in children with SPD. These may include:
Providing a consistent and structured environment that is predictable and free of unnecessary sensory stimuli
Using sensory tools, such as weighted blankets, fidgets, or noise-canceling headphones, to help regulate sensory input
Encouraging participation in activities that provide appropriate levels of sensory input, such as swinging, spinning, or jumping on a trampoline
Helping the child to develop coping strategies for managing sensory overload, such as taking breaks, using deep breathing techniques, or finding a quiet place to relax
Overall, sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors are common in children with SPD and can have a significant impact on their daily functioning. With appropriate treatment and support, it is possible to manage these behaviors and improve the child's overall quality of life. Ssensory processing disorder is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life. With the help of occupational therapy and other interventions, individuals with SPD can learn to better regulate their sensory intake and improve their overall functioning.
