Sensory Processing and Autism

Sensory processing differences are a core part of the autistic experience. While most people can "tune out" background noise or the feeling of a clothing tag, an autistic brain often perceives this input with intense detail or, conversely, may require more input to register a sensation.

Hypersensitivity (Over-responsiveness)

This is when common sensory inputs feel overwhelming or even painful.

• Sound: Feeling like every sound is equally loud; inability to filter out a hum of a refrigerator.
• Sight: Floppy lights or bright sunlight feeling physically blinding.
• Touch: Extreme discomfort with specific textures (denim, wool) or unexpected light touch.
• Smell: Overwhelming reactions to perfumes, cleaning products, or food.

Hyposensitivity (Under-responsiveness)

This is when a person requires more input to feel a sensation. This often leads to sensory seeking behavior.

• Movement: Enjoying spinning, jumping, or intense physical activity to "feel" the body.
• Touch: Seeking out heavy pressure, weighted blankets, or rough textures.
• Sound: Enjoying loud music or making repetitive vocal sounds.

The Role of Stimming

Self-stimulatory behaviors (stimming) are often a way to manage sensory input. Stimming can help "dampen" an overwhelming environment or provides the input the body is seeking. It is a vital tool for emotional and sensory regulation.

If the world often feels "too loud" or "too bright," our sensory-informed screening can help you understand if these traits are part of a broader autistic pattern.