sensory processing disorders

Dunns model

• Symptoms are classified according to interaction of sensry stimuli needed to elicit a response

• Either high threshold or low threshold

• Either passive response (does not attempt to change input or stimuli) or active response (avoids or seeks too avoid)

• Four categories of threshold and response

  • Poor registration

    • High threshold and passive response, may appear aloof or indifferent to environment

  • Sensory seeking

    • High threshold and active response, looks for intense sensory experiences

  • Sensory sensitivity

    • Low threshold and passive response, bothered by ordinary sensory input, considered hypersensitive

  • Sensory avoiding

    • Low threshold and active response, frequent state of fight or flight, can escalate quickly

Ecological model of sensory modulation disorder

Describes individuals unique responses to interactions between internal and external parts of sensory processing

• external dimensions: culture, relationships, tasks

• Internal dimensions: sensation, emotion, attention

• Difficulty with modulation can result in either

  • Difficulties with social and environment interactions

  • Difficulties with self regulation

Proposed sensory processing nosology

Classification categories

• sensory over responsive

• Sensory under responsive

• Sensory seeking

Sensory based motor disorder

Symptoms

• dyspraxia: difficulty planning new movements

• Sensory based postural disorrders

Sensory discrimination disorder

• ability to distinguish sensations as diffErent