Sensory Sensitivities in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in Autistic People

Autistic individuals may experience heightened or diminished sensitivities to sensory stimuli, affecting their interaction with the environment.

Hypersensitivity and Hyposensitivity

These sensitivities can range from being overly sensitive (hypersensitive) to under-sensitive (hyposensitive) to sensory inputs, often leading to distress or pleasure.

Visual Sensitivity

Visual challenges may include focusing on details without seeing the bigger picture or perceiving all visual elements as equally prominent.

Auditory Sensitivity

Hearing sensitivities can result in perceiving all sounds at the same volume, making ordinary noises painful or overwhelming.

Tactile Sensitivity

Touch sensitivity may manifest in preferences for certain textures or materials and discomfort with others.

Gustatory and Olfactory Sensitivities

Taste and smell sensitivities can lead to strong preferences or aversions to specific foods, liquids, or odors, influencing dietary choices.

Vestibular and Proprioceptive Sensitivities

• Challenges with movement and balance, sensitivity to floor surfaces.
• Unique body positions and discomfort with certain physical proximities.

Conclusion

Recognizing and understanding the varied sensory sensitivities in autism is crucial for creating supportive environments and interactions.