Abstract
Sensory processing abnormalities in autism have largely been described by parent report. This study used a multi-method (parent-report and measurement), multi-trait (tactile sensitivity and attention) design to evaluate somatosensory processing in ASD. Results showed multiple significant within-method (e.g., parent report of different traits)/cross-trait (e.g., attention and tactile sensitivity) correlations, suggesting that parent-reported tactile sensory dysfunction and performance-based tactile sensitivity describe different behavioral phenomena. Additionally, both parent-reported tactile functioning and performance-based tactile sensitivity measures were significantly associated with measures of attention. Findings suggest that sensory (tactile) processing abnormalities in ASD are multifaceted, and may partially reflect a more global deficit in behavioral regulation (including attention). Challenges of relying solely on parent-report to describe sensory difficulties faced by children/families with ASD are also highlighted.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 3232-3241 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders |
Volume | 46 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 1 2016 |
Keywords
- Attention
- Autism
- Sensory processing
- Somatosensory
- Vibrotactile
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Developmental and Educational Psychology