Sensory Under-Responsiveness in Teens

Sensory Modulation Disorder

• Sensory under-responsivity is a form of sensory modulation disorder, which is a subtype of sensory processing disorder. Kids with this type of sensory modulation disorder do not appear focused or motivated by their surroundings. They may be daydreamers and often suffer from a lack of physical coordination. Like all types of sensory processing disorders, sensory modulation disorder frequently appears in children on the autism spectrum, as well as those with attention deficit disorder, mental retardation and cerebral palsy. But it may also occur alone.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of sensory under-responsivity generally begin in infancy, suggests SensationalBrain.com, a website hosted by an occupational therapist with a specialty in developmental disorders. By her teens, your child might have outgrown many of the symptoms. Nonetheless, sensory processing disorder typically lasts into adulthood, and most teens with the disorder will show definite symptoms. These symptoms include: cravings for salty or spicy foods; poor fine motor skills; high pain tolerance; low muscle tone; inability to focus on what is being said; slouching or slumping; not paying attention to twisted clothing or messy hands; awkward gait; and overall clumsiness.

Sensory-Alerting Strategies

• According to an article by Jenny Brack of the Autism Society on Education.com, people with mild sensory under-responsivity often benefit from targeted strategies designed to alert their senses. Strong citrus or peppermint smells; movement-based jobs, such as handing out papers; listening to fast music; and eating sour candy help alert many kids with sensory under-responsivity. However, these are short-term solutions and are best used in tandem with therapy that treats rather than simply masks the condition.

Treatment

• Sensory processing disorder is generally treated through occupational therapy with a sensory integration design. The goal for treatment is to minimize the symptoms of sensory under-responsivity. Occupational therapy often takes place in a sensory-rich environment known as a therapeutic gym. Many therapists involve the entire family, enlisting the help of parents and siblings in continuing the work of therapy at home. Your child might receive a sensory diet, which is a written or picture-based list of therapeutic activities that he can perform when he feels the symptoms start to return.