Introduction to Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism

Sensory processing issues are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). According to research, up to 95% of children with ASD experience sensory processing difficulties.

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Children with SPD may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory input, and this can cause a range of difficulties, including emotional regulation issues, behavior problems, and difficulties with social interactions.

Children with ASD may experience a range of sensory processing difficulties, including hypersensitivity to touch, sound, or light, or difficulty with balance and coordination. These difficulties can impact their ability to participate in everyday activities and may contribute to challenging behaviors.

It's important to note that not all children with ASD have sensory processing issues, and not all children with sensory processing issues have ASD. However, the co-occurrence of these conditions is relatively high, and addressing sensory processing difficulties can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan for children with ASD.

Is it sensory or is it behavior?

It can be challenging to determine whether a child's difficulties are due to sensory processing issues or behavioral issues, as the two can often overlap and impact each other. However, there are some ways that professionals can differentiate between the two.

A thorough evaluation by a trained professional, such as an occupational therapist, can help identify whether a child's difficulties are due to sensory processing issues or behavioral issues. This evaluation may include standardized assessments, observation of the child's behavior in different settings, and a detailed history of the child's development and behavior.

In general, sensory processing issues are more likely to be the root cause of a child's difficulties if they are consistently present across different settings and activities. For example, if a child is consistently bothered by certain textures or sounds, and this impacts their ability to participate in a range of activities, this may suggest a sensory processing issue. On the other hand, if a child's difficulties are more situation-specific or related to social interactions, this may suggest a behavioral issue.

Ultimately, determining the underlying cause of a child's difficulties is important for developing an effective intervention plan. A comprehensive evaluation can help identify the specific areas of difficulty and guide the development of an individualized treatment plan that addresses the child's unique needs.

How can Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) help?

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are trained to address a range of behavioral issues, including those related to sensory processing. While BCBAs and RBTs do not typically provide direct sensory therapy, they can work collaboratively with other professionals, such as occupational therapists, to develop an effective intervention plan for children with sensory processing issues.

One way that they may address sensory processing difficulties is by incorporating sensory-based interventions into ABA therapy. For example, if a child is sensitive to certain textures, a BCBA may recommend strategies such as gradually exposing the child to the texture in a controlled way, pairing the texture with positive experiences, and providing positive reinforcement for appropriate responses to the texture. These strategies can help the child become more comfortable with the texture over time and reduce the impact of the sensory processing difficulty on their behavior.

They may also work with children with sensory processing issues to develop strategies for self-regulation and coping during ABA therapy. This may include teaching the child relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, and providing visual or auditory cues to help the child recognize when they are becoming overwhelmed and need a break.

Overall, ABA therapy can play an important role in addressing sensory processing issues in children by incorporating sensory-based strategies into behavior plans and teaching self-regulation and coping skills. 

To find out more about our ABA Therapy Services in Riverside County, San Bernadino County, and Imperial County, please reach out to us today.