Perspectives and Evidence for Sensory Processing / Integration Approaches

true or false: Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a diagnosis that has an ICD-10 code and is included in the DSM-V

false 

Dunn’s Sensory Processing Approach focuses more on what types of intervention strategies?

routines-based interventions

which is the sensory processing approach for sensory seekers?

1. incorporating additional sensory input into child’s routine so thresholds can be met within activities

2. honor need to limit input and broaden the sensory range within selected rituals

3. provide calming sensory input within tasks to reduce change for arousal

4. identify sensory information so thresholds are met and child will notice / respond

1

which is the sensory processing approach for sensory avoiders?

1. incorporating additional sensory input into child’s routine so thresholds can be met within activities

2. honor need to limit input and broaden the sensory range within selected rituals

3. provide calming sensory input within tasks to reduce change for arousal

4. identify sensory information so thresholds are met and child will notice / respond

2

which is the sensory processing approach for individuals with sensory sensitivities?

1. incorporating additional sensory input into child’s routine so thresholds can be met within activities

2. honor need to limit input and broaden the sensory range within selected rituals

3. provide calming sensory input within tasks to reduce change for arousal

4. identify sensory information so thresholds are met and child will notice / respond

3

which is the sensory processing approach for lower registration?

1. incorporating additional sensory input into child’s routine so thresholds can be met within activities

2. honor need to limit input and broaden the sensory range within selected rituals

3. provide calming sensory input within tasks to reduce change for arousal

4. identify sensory information so thresholds are met and child will notice / respond

4

why is natural activity settings important during sensory processing approaches?

leads to positive consequences in both enhanced learning opportunities and child functioning 

sensory diet

activity plan tailored for each participant to facilitate their sensory processing skills throughout a day

Ayers Sensory Integration Approach focus of treatment 

normalizing sensory processing and integration to produce adaptive responses 

where is the treatment setting for the Ayers Sensory Integration Approach?

always in the clinic

what are key assumptions of the Ayers Sensory Integration Approach?

• the CNS is plastic

• sensory integration develops across the lifespan

• brain functions as an integrated whole 

• adaptive interactions are critical to sensory integration 

adaptive responses

purposeful, goal-directed behaviors that suggest the individual can master the demands of the environment, the function of the brain is inferred from these observable behaviors 

what is the American Academy of Pediatrics stance on using sensory processing disorder as a diagnosis?

pediatricians should not use sensory processing disorder as a diagnosis

sensory stimulation intervention approaches

• involves primarily PASSIVE activities led by therapist or adult

• may or may not involve specialized training

sensory processing intervention approaches

• incorporates sensory and motor activities into an individual’s daily life

• interventions support participation

• always neutral contexts, routines based on interventions

• top down approach 

sensory integration intervention approaches

• provided on a one-to-one basis with specialized trained therapist in enhanced environment

• incorporates active participation of child 

• intervention focused on processing and performance skills 

• bottom up approach