What are sensory differences
Sensory differences refer to the variations in how individuals perceive and respond to sensory stimuli. These differences can significantly affect daily life and interactions with the environment and individuals may react very differently to stimuli such as light, sound, touch, taste, and smell.
What are sensory differences?
Sensory differences can manifest in various ways, including heightened sensitivity, reduced sensitivity, or atypical responses to sensory input. These variations are commonly seen in individuals on the autism spectrum and evidence suggests that 80-95% of individuals with autism have sensory processing difficulties. Sensory differences also affect those with sensory processing disorder (SPD) or even in neurotypical individuals under certain conditions. For instance, someone with heightened sensitivity may find bright lights overwhelming, whilst another may not even notice when engaging with the same stimuli.
Types of sensory processing differences include:
1. Visual processing: Some individuals can be sensitive to light and struggle with bright lights, patterns, or contrasting colours, making focusing difficult.
2. Auditory processing: Certain sounds can be overwhelming, loud or distressing.
3. Tactile processing: Some individuals may avoid certain food textures or may be sensitive or under-responsive to touch; some may be uncomfortable wearing certain fabrics or labels in clothing.
4. Taste and smell processing: Certain tastes and smells can be heightened or reduced, leading to aversions or preferences that influence diet and lifestyle.
5. Proprioceptive and Vestibular processing: Proprioception refers to our awareness of the position and movement of our bodies. It is important for planning and adjusting our movements and enables us to know how much force to use, for example when drinking from a cup or throwing a ball. Our vestibular system is responsible for balance and spatial awareness.
Can Sensory Differences Impact Daily Life?
Absolutely! For those with sensory differences, everyday functioning can present challenges that can impact an individuals’, communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Recognising and accommodating these differences is essential for creating a more inclusive environment for those who experience sensory differences.
Conclusion
By enabling individuals to acknowledge and understand their sensory differences, it is possible to identify what strategies will support individuals to engage more with their surroundings and thrive in their everyday lives. Recognising that sensory processing is unique to each person can lead to better support systems and greater empathy in our interactions.
