Sensory Processing Disorder in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological developmental disorder that affect individual’s communication abilities, behavior and social skills. Individuals with the condition also portray restrictive interests and repetitive behaviors. Majority of individuals with ASD have a cor-mobid disorder known as Sensory Processing Disorder. Over 90% of them typically exhibit unusual sensory behaviors. The disorder entails a dysfunction of one or more of the eight sensory modalities. The modalities include, auditory, visual, gustatory, olfactory, tactile, proprioception, interception and vestibular. It appears in three forms including the Sensory modulation disorder, Sensory discrimination disorder and Sensory-based motor disorders. The disorder has severe and critical implications in education and general quality of life of individuals with ASD. It is important for therapists, teachers and caregivers to understand the nature and implication of the disorder to affected individuals. Stake holders should work consultatively and collaboratively for timely identification and intervention. Early intervention leads to a more productive outcome. In order to intervene effectively, it is important to understand the entire disorder and its implications. This paper highlights the key features of the disorder including causes, characteristic, intervention strategies and implication to live and education of Individuals with ASD. It is a product of lengthy and in depth review of research findings and scholars’ work in the field of sensory processing disorder and ASD. Its intended audience include caretakers, families of individuals with SPD, teachers, educationists, speech and occupational therapist.