How to Diagnose Sensory Processing Disorder
Recognize that a person with sensory processing disorder (SPD) will have a mix of traits., Be aware that SPD is not limited to childhood., Recognize that SPD is not emotional, but physiological., Recognize conditions that may co-occur or be mistaken...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Recognize that a person with sensory processing disorder (SPD) will have a mix of traits.
Some senses may be over-sensitive, and some may be under-sensitive.
Not all traits will apply to a person.
For example, someone who is over-sensitive to touch may only fit half the bullet points listed.
This is normal, and it is still worth getting an evaluation. -
Step 2: Be aware that SPD is not limited to childhood.
People of any age may have SPD, and children do not necessarily "grow out of it" (although some do)., People don't "do it on purpose," and trying to control their SPD would take tremendous amount of energy.
It is best for people to be understanding and accommodating to a person with different sensory needs.
Punishing a child with SPD will not magically make them sit still, eat chili without crying, stop finger flicking, et cetera—but it will cause a lot of stress and make them stop trusting you. , Talk to a professional to consider and rule out anything that could be affecting the person.
Most autistic people have SPD.
Autistic people tend to experience passionate interests, confusion in social situations, repetitive movements, and disorganization.
Sensory seeking could look similar to hyperactive type ADHD, and sensory sensitivity could look like inattentive type ADHD. (People with ADHD may also have SPD.) Visual under-sensitivity could be mistaken for dyslexia or other disabilities that impact reading and learning.
Auditory under-sensitivity could be mistaken for being hard of hearing. , While SPD is not an official diagnosis under the DSM 5, it can be identified and treated by a specialist.
Expect to fill out a questionnaire about sensory responses.
If a child is being evaluated, a parent/guardian will be given a form to answer about the child, and the child will be given one to fill themselves if they are old enough. , A sensory diet means incorporating sensory activities into their lifestyle, to help reduce sensory issues.
An occupational therapist can provide sensory integration therapy and can help come up with a sensory diet tailored to the person's need. -
Step 3: Recognize that SPD is not emotional
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Step 4: but physiological.
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Step 5: Recognize conditions that may co-occur or be mistaken for SPD.
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Step 6: Talk to an occupational therapist
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Step 7: or someone else who specializes in SPD.
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Step 8: Recognize that SPD can be treated through a "sensory diet" and/or sensory integration therapy.
Detailed Guide
Some senses may be over-sensitive, and some may be under-sensitive.
Not all traits will apply to a person.
For example, someone who is over-sensitive to touch may only fit half the bullet points listed.
This is normal, and it is still worth getting an evaluation.
People of any age may have SPD, and children do not necessarily "grow out of it" (although some do)., People don't "do it on purpose," and trying to control their SPD would take tremendous amount of energy.
It is best for people to be understanding and accommodating to a person with different sensory needs.
Punishing a child with SPD will not magically make them sit still, eat chili without crying, stop finger flicking, et cetera—but it will cause a lot of stress and make them stop trusting you. , Talk to a professional to consider and rule out anything that could be affecting the person.
Most autistic people have SPD.
Autistic people tend to experience passionate interests, confusion in social situations, repetitive movements, and disorganization.
Sensory seeking could look similar to hyperactive type ADHD, and sensory sensitivity could look like inattentive type ADHD. (People with ADHD may also have SPD.) Visual under-sensitivity could be mistaken for dyslexia or other disabilities that impact reading and learning.
Auditory under-sensitivity could be mistaken for being hard of hearing. , While SPD is not an official diagnosis under the DSM 5, it can be identified and treated by a specialist.
Expect to fill out a questionnaire about sensory responses.
If a child is being evaluated, a parent/guardian will be given a form to answer about the child, and the child will be given one to fill themselves if they are old enough. , A sensory diet means incorporating sensory activities into their lifestyle, to help reduce sensory issues.
An occupational therapist can provide sensory integration therapy and can help come up with a sensory diet tailored to the person's need.
About the Author
Andrea Thompson
Andrea Thompson is an experienced writer with over 1 years of expertise in advertising. Passionate about sharing practical knowledge, Andrea creates easy-to-follow guides that help readers achieve their goals.
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