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Brief Report: Further Evidence of Sensory Subtypes in Autism

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Abstract

Distinct sensory processing (SP) subtypes in autism have been reported previously. This study sought to replicate the previous findings in an independent sample of thirty children diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Model-based cluster analysis of parent-reported sensory functioning (measured using the Short Sensory Profile) confirmed the triad of sensory subtypes reported earlier. Subtypes were differentiated from each other based on degree of SP dysfunction, taste/smell sensitivity and vestibular/proprioceptive processing. Further elucidation of two of the subtypes was also achieved in this study. Children with a primary pattern of sensory-based inattention could be further described as sensory seekers or non-seekers. Children with a primary pattern of vestibular/proprioceptive dysfunction were also differentiated on movement and tactile sensitivity.

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Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Laura Mitchell, Nichole Mayer, Jody Wall, Jena Altenburger and Michele Siders in data collection and data entry; and Helping Hands and the Nisonger Center in recruitment of participants.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Allied Medical Professions, The Ohio State University, 406C Atwell Hall, 453 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA

    Alison E. Lane

  2. School of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA

    Simon J. Dennis

  3. Division of Medical Dietetics, School of Allied Medical Professions, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA

    Maureen E. Geraghty

  4. Abbott Laboratories, 3300 Stelzer Road, D-105685, RP3-2, Columbus, OH, 43219, USA

    Maureen E. Geraghty

Authors
  1. Alison E. Lane
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  2. Simon J. Dennis
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  3. Maureen E. Geraghty
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Correspondence to Alison E. Lane.

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Lane, A.E., Dennis, S.J. & Geraghty, M.E. Brief Report: Further Evidence of Sensory Subtypes in Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 41, 826–831 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-010-1103-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-010-1103-y

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