Comparing sensory processing abilities of ADHD and typically developing children

Sensory processing is the process whereby sensory input is perceived, processed and a response generated. Impairments can occur in some or all sensory systems including tactile, auditory, visual, gustatory, olfactory, proprioceptive, and vestibular systems and children that suffering from sensory integration dysfunction may receive inaccurate or unreliable sensory input, so that their ability to process information and create appropriate responses is disrupted. These sensory disorders can negatively affect development and functional abilities in behavioral, emotional, motoric, and cognitive domains. The purpose of this study is to investigate differences in sensory processing among age matched ADHD children between ages 4 and 7 years and those who are typically developing. Reported sensory processing abilities of 10 ADHD children were compared to age-matched peers who were typically developing, using the short sensory profile (SSP). All of children with ASD demonstrated some degree of sensory processing dysfunction on the SSP Total Score. The ADHD group also performed significantly differently (p < 0.001) on items of the Short Sensory Profile. These findings, considered with similar published studies, begin to confirm the prevalence and types of sensory processing impairments in ADHD. Further research is needed to more clearly define patterns of sensory processing in ADHD.

Keywords:

ADHD , sensory integration , sensory processing , short sensory profile