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What is Sensory Process Disorder?

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Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), also known as Sensory Integration Disorder, is a condition where the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. People with SPD may be overly sensitive to certain stimuli (hypersensitivity) or not sensitive enough (hyposensitivity). This can affect one or more of the senses, such as touch, sight, sound, taste, or smell.

Key Characteristics of SPD:

Hypersensitivity (Over-Responsiveness):

  • A person may find certain sounds unbearably loud.
  • Light touches may feel painful.
  • Certain textures in food or clothing can cause discomfort or distress.

Hyposensitivity (Under-Responsiveness):

  • A person may not notice when their name is called.
  • They might seek out intense sensory experiences, like spinning around or touching objects repeatedly.
  • They may not feel pain as acutely as others.

Mixed Sensitivity:

  • Some individuals may experience both hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity in different senses or situations.

Impact on Daily Life:

  • Children: SPD can affect a child’s ability to perform everyday tasks, interact with others, and succeed in school. They may struggle with motor coordination, self-care, and communication.
  • Adults: SPD can also persist into adulthood, leading to challenges in work, relationships, and daily functioning.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

SPD is typically diagnosed by an occupational therapist with specialized training in sensory integration. Treatment often includes sensory integration therapy, which involves activities designed to help the brain adapt to and better process sensory information. Other therapies, such as behavioral therapy, may also be recommended depending on the individual’s needs.

SPD is not recognized as an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but it is widely acknowledged by therapists and specialists, particularly in pediatric care.

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