1 of 7 / Overview

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological condition where the brain has difficulty receiving, organizing, or responding to sensory information correctly. This includes input from the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—as well as movement (vestibular), body awareness (proprioception), and internal cues (interoception).

People with SPD may overreact (hypersensitive) or underreact (hyposensitive) to stimuli such as loud noises, textures, lights, or motion. This can affect daily life, behavior, learning, social skills, and emotional regulation.

How common is Sensory Processing Disorder?

SPD affects an estimated 5-16% of children, though it can occur at any age. It’s often found alongside other conditions like autism spectrum disorder or ADHD but can also appear independently.

What causes Sensory Processing Disorder?

The exact cause of SPD isn’t fully understood. It may result from differences in brain development or neurological function. Genetics, prenatal factors, or early childhood trauma may contribute.

Can adults have Sensory Processing Disorder?

Yes, SPD can affect adults, though it’s more commonly diagnosed in children. Many adults learn coping strategies or remain undiagnosed despite ongoing sensory challenges.

Overview Learn by Diagnosis Category

2 of 7 / Signs & Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms Learn by Diagnosis Category

What are the common signs of Sensory Processing Disorder in children?

Signs of SPD vary, but they typically include sensory avoidance or seeking behaviors.

In children and adults, symptoms may include:

  • Aversion to certain clothing textures, sounds, or foods
  • Overwhelmed by lights, crowds, or transitions
  • Constantly seeking movement (jumping, spinning, crashing)
  • Poor coordination or clumsiness
  • Trouble with focus and emotional regulation
  • Difficulty sleeping or calming down

These symptoms often show up in early childhood, but many individuals remain undiagnosed into adolescence or adulthood.

How do sensory sensitivities affect daily life?

Sensory sensitivities can make everyday activities challenging, such as getting dressed, eating certain foods, or tolerating busy environments. This can lead to anxiety or social withdrawal.

Are there different types of sensory symptoms in SPD?

Yes, SPD symptoms fall into categories such as sensory modulation disorder (over- or under-reactivity), sensory discrimination disorder (difficulty distinguishing sensory info), and sensory-based motor disorder (affecting movement and coordination).

Can SPD affect behavior or emotions?

Absolutely. Children with SPD may have meltdowns, anxiety, or difficulty focusing due to overwhelming sensory input. Emotional regulation can be challenging without proper support.

Do I Have ADHD Symptoms? (Adult)

Below are a series of questions designed to help identify potential ADHD symptoms in adults. Answer each question based on your experiences over the past six months. Rate each question on a scale of 1 to 5, where:

  • 1 – Never
  • 2 – Rarely
  • 3 – Sometimes
  • 4 – Often
  • 5 – Very Often

Although it is not a diagnostic tool, it may provide insight into your experiences.
For each statement, indicate how often you experience the following behaviors.

3 of 7 / Causes & Risks

What factors increase the risk of developing Sensory Processing Disorder?

Premature birth, low birth weight, genetic conditions, and neurological disorders increase the risk of SPD. Environmental factors like early trauma may also play a role.

Is SPD hereditary?

There is evidence that sensory processing issues can run in families, suggesting a genetic component, though more research is needed.

What Causes Sensory Processing Disorder?

The exact cause of SPD is not fully understood, but research suggests a combination of neurological, genetic, and environmental factors may be involved.

Contributing factors may include:

  • Genetics: SPD may run in families
  • Premature birth or complications during pregnancy
  • Prenatal exposure to toxins or drugs
  • Developmental conditions such as autism or ADHD
  • Sensory deprivation or trauma in early childhood

SPD often coexists with other neurodevelopmental disorders, though it can also occur independently.

How is SPD linked to autism and other developmental disorders?

Many children with autism also have SPD symptoms, but SPD can occur independently. Sensory challenges are part of autism’s diagnostic criteria, which complicates the relationship.

Causes and Risks Learn by Diagnosis Category

4 of 7 / Diagnosis & tests

Diagnosis and Tests Learn by Diagnosis Category

How is Sensory Processing Disorder diagnosed?

Sensory Processing Disorder is not currently listed as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5, but it can be evaluated and treated by occupational therapists trained in sensory integration.

Diagnostic process includes:

  • Parent and caregiver interviews
  • Observations in multiple environments
  • Use of standardized tools like the Sensory Profile or Sensory Processing Measure (SPM)
  • Functional assessments of coordination, body awareness, and reaction to stimuli

Early diagnosis is key to successful intervention.

Are there specific tests for SPD?

While no medical test confirms SPD, tools like the Sensory Profile or Sensory Processing Measure help evaluate sensory behaviors and identify areas of difficulty.

Who can diagnose SPD?

Occupational therapists specializing in sensory integration are the primary professionals who assess and diagnose SPD, often working alongside pediatricians or neurologists.

Can SPD be misdiagnosed as something else?

Yes, SPD symptoms overlap with ADHD, anxiety, or autism, so careful evaluation is necessary to ensure accurate diagnosis.

5 of 7 / Care & treatment

What are the main treatment options for Sensory Processing Disorder?

The most effective treatment for SPD is occupational therapy (OT) using a sensory integration (SI) approach.

Key treatment strategies include:

  • Sensory integration therapy in a clinic or at home
  • A customized sensory diet with daily activities that regulate input
  • Use of sensory tools (weighted vests, swings, fidgets, etc.)
  • School accommodations and IEP support
  • Parent education and training

Therapy helps the brain build better connections to improve processing and regulation.

Are sensory diets helpful for SPD?

Yes, sensory diets are customized activity plans designed by therapists to help regulate sensory input throughout the day and improve functioning.

Can medications treat Sensory Processing Disorder?

There are no medications specifically for SPD, but associated symptoms like anxiety or ADHD may be managed with medication under medical supervision.

How can parents support a child with SPD at home?

Parents can create sensory-friendly environments, use calming tools (like weighted blankets), follow therapist recommendations, and maintain consistent routines.

Care and Treatment Learn by Diagnosis Category

6 of 7 / Living With

Living With Learn by Diagnosis Category

What challenges do people with SPD face in school?

Children with SPD may struggle with noisy classrooms, crowded hallways, or tactile sensitivities that affect participation and learning. Accommodations like sensory breaks can help.

How can adults with SPD manage sensory overload at work?

Strategies include using noise-canceling headphones, taking regular breaks, adjusting lighting, and communicating sensory needs to employers.

Are there support groups for families dealing with SPD?

Yes, many communities and online forums offer support groups where families can share experiences, resources, and coping strategies.

Can therapy help improve quality of life for people with SPD?

Absolutely. With ongoing support and therapies, individuals with SPD can better manage sensory challenges and thrive at home, school, and work.

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What Are Others Reading?

Does my Child have ADHD?

Below is a series of questions designed to help identify potential ADHD symptoms in children. Answer each question based on your child’s behaviors over the past six months. Rate each question on a scale of 1 to 5, where:

  • 1 – Never
  • 2 – Rarely
  • 3 – Sometimes
  • 4 – Often
  • 5 – Very Often

Although it is not a diagnostic tool, it may provide insight into your child’s experiences.

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