Sensory Processing Disorder in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VII, Issue VI, June 2020 | ISSN 2321–2705

Sensory Processing Disorder in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Dr. George Mathenge Wairungu
Department of Early Childhood and Special Needs Education, Kenyatta University Kenya

Abstract:- Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological developmental disorder that affect individual’s communication abilities, behavior and social skills. Individuals with the condition also portray restrictive interests and repetitive behaviors. Majority of individuals with ASD have a cor-mobid disorder known as Sensory Processing Disorder. Over 90% of them typically exhibit unusual sensory behaviors. The disorder entails a dysfunction of one or more of the eight sensory modalities. The modalities include, auditory, visual, gustatory, olfactory, tactile, proprioception, interception and vestibular. It appears in three forms including the Sensory modulation disorder, Sensory discrimination disorder and Sensory-based motor disorders. The disorder has severe and critical implications in education and general quality of life of individuals with ASD. It is important for therapists, teachers and caregivers to understand the nature and implication of the disorder to affected individuals. Stake holders should work consultatively and collaboratively for timely identification and intervention. Early intervention leads to a more productive outcome. In order to intervene effectively, it is important to understand the entire disorder and its implications. This paper highlights the key features of the disorder including causes, characteristic, intervention strategies and implication to live and education of Individuals with ASD. It is a product of lengthy and in depth review of research findings and scholars’ work in the field of sensory processing disorder and ASD. Its intended audience include caretakers, families of individuals with SPD, teachers, educationists, speech and occupational therapist.

Keywords: sensory processing disorder, autism spectrum disorder, interventions, collaboration, sensory modalities, sensory diets, special gyms

I. INTRODUCTION

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological developmental disorder affecting individual’s communication abilities, behavior and social skills. Individuals with ASD also exhibit restrictive or repetitive interests(Suarez, 2012). Individuals also havephenotypic differences including pace of language development, presence or absence of epilepsy and cognitive abilities. It is referred to as a spectrum because of the wide range of symptoms and severity in the affected individuals. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSMV 5), also notes that individuals with ASD have difficulties interacting with others. Currently, Autism spectrum disorder includes conditions that were previously considered as separate disabilities.

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