Too much or too little: hyper- and hypo-reactivity in high-functioning autism spectrum conditions

J Intellect Dev Disabil. 2013 Sep;38(3):232-41. doi: 10.3109/13668250.2013.815694.

Abstract

Background: Sensory reactivity in people with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) has been found to differ in comparison to reactivity in people without ASC. In this study sensory experiences of high-functioning individuals with ASC were explored and described.

Method: Interview data from 15 participants with a diagnosis of ASC were analysed by content analysis.

Results: Seven aspects of sensory experiences were identified: Being hyper- and hypo-reactive, reacting to general overload, having strong stimuli preferences, managing attentiveness to stimuli, managing sensory/motor stimuli, and dealing with consequences of sensory reactions in daily life.

Conclusions: The categorisation of sensory reactivity in this study can guide clinicians on how to pose questions about sensory issues to individuals with ASC. The assessment of spectrum-specific sensory experiences in high-functioning ASC and their association with other social and nonsocial features of ASC are goals for further research.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attention / physiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / etiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / physiopathology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology*
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / complications
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / physiopathology
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / psychology*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Perception / physiology
  • Sensation Disorders / etiology
  • Sensation Disorders / psychology*
  • Young Adult