Sensory Processing Disorder
Key Takeaways
- Sensory Processing Disorder has no single known cause; most researchers agree it stems from a combination of neurological differences, genetic predisposition, and early developmental factors.
- SPD appears to run in families: first-degree relatives of children with SPD often report similar sensory challenges, even without a formal diagnosis, suggesting a genetic component.
- Brain imaging studies have found that children with SPD show atypical white matter pathways and differences in connectivity, the amygdala, and the cerebellum, affecting how they process sensory input.
- Prenatal and early-life conditions such as premature birth, low birth weight, NICU stays, and prenatal exposure to alcohol, drugs, or toxins can increase a child's risk of SPD.
- SPD can occur on its own or alongside other developmental diagnoses like Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, or premature birth complications.
Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team
Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board
Last updated: June 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes sensory processing disorder in children?
SPD does not have a single known cause. Most researchers agree it results from a combination of neurological differences, genetic predisposition, and early developmental factors that affect how the brain processes and integrates sensory input.
Is sensory processing disorder genetic?
There is growing evidence that SPD runs in families, suggesting a genetic component, since first-degree relatives of children with SPD often report similar sensory challenges themselves. Researchers have not identified a single SPD gene, but genetics likely play a strong role, especially when SPD co-occurs with autism or ADHD.
Can premature birth lead to sensory processing disorder?
Yes. Premature birth (before 37 weeks), low birth weight, NICU stays, and birth complications or oxygen deprivation are among the early-life conditions that can increase a child's risk of developing SPD by interfering with neural pathway development.
Are children's brains different with SPD?
Yes. Children with SPD often show functional and structural brain differences, including abnormal white matter tracts, reduced connectivity in areas responsible for multisensory integration, overactive amygdala responses, and differences in cerebellum size and functioning.
Does SPD happen on its own or with other conditions?
SPD may arise as a standalone condition, or it can appear alongside other neurodevelopmental diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, or premature birth complications, which may increase the risk or severity of sensory symptoms.
