Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition in which the brain has trouble processing and responding to information from the five senses. It can affect anyone, particularly children. Children with this disorder may struggle to comprehend inputs like sound, light, touch, and movement.
Children with SPD may find it more difficult to function in daily life and engage in social interactions. For example, having trouble focusing in class or finding it difficult to be in busy places. Learn more about the symptoms of sensory processing disorder in children as well as other related indicators.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
The disorder known as sensory processing disorder, or SPD, causes problems for the brain in terms of taking in, processing, and reacting to information from the five senses. This disorder may have an impact on a person's perception of and response to various sensory inputs, including touch, taste, smell, light, and sound. Certain stimuli can either make a person with SPD extremely sensitive or less sensitive.
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Signs and Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, can impact one or more of the five senses simultaneously, such as hearing, touch, or taste. Symptoms may vary from person to person.
Hypersensitivity to stimuli
Children might be extremely sensitive to sensory stimuli and experience discomfort or pain from things that others may consider insignificant. For example, the sound of a blender, washing machine, or leaves scratching against a window may cause them to feel nauseous or want to hide under the table. They may also respond by screaming when touched or avoiding particular food textures.
Hyposensitivity to stimuli
In contrast, hyposensitivity in SPD is a condition in which the child does not respond to sensory stimuli that would ordinarily catch the interest of others. They may not detect temperature differences, such as hot or cold, do not react to changes in light, favor foods with strong smells and textures, and are frequently unconscious of unpleasant odors.
Difficulty controlling emotions and actions
Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) might find it difficult to control their emotions and behaviors. They may have sudden mood changes, difficulties coping with changes in routine, and frequent tantrums when exposed to excessive sensory stimulation.
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Delayed in developing motor skills
Children with SPD frequently have difficulties with balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. Their motions are rough and clumsy, or they regularly fall.
Feeling anxious or uncomfortable
Because they are uncomfortable with sensory stimulation, some children with SPD frequently struggle in social situations. They frequently avoid particular activities due to unpleasant or painful experiences.
Sensation-seeking behavior
Children with SPD may behave in a sensation-seeking manner, such as being restless and moving all the time, enjoying loud noises or music, chewing or biting objects, touching things or people nearby frequently, and loving to touch or rub objects with a particular texture.
This sensation-seeking behavior is frequently used to achieve sensory balance in order to feel calmer and more focused. This habit may disrupt everyday activities and social relationships.
Even if your child exhibits some of the symptoms listed above, you should not self-diagnose. If the child exhibits the symptoms listed above, you should immediately take him or her to see a pediatrician or psychologist for an evaluation and further recommendations.
If you have more questions about children's health, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Nadia Opmalina
Kimberly Holland (2022). Sensory Processing Disorder: Understanding Sensory Issues in Children. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/childrens-health/sensory-issues-in-children
Brenda Goodman, MA (2023). Sensory Processing Disorder. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/children/sensory-processing-disorder
Psychology Today. Sensory Processing Disorder. Available from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/sensory-processing-disorder
Raising Children (2022). Sensory processing difficulties. Available from: https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/sensory-processing-difficulties
Raising Children (2024). Tantrums: why they happen and how to respond. Available from: https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/behaviour/crying-tantrums/tantrums