Emerging Ideas. Parent perspectives on children with sensory over‐responsivity

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThis pilot study sought to explore the experience of children with sensory over‐responsivity (SOR) during a sensory meltdown and the extent that parents feel confident about strategies they use to support their child.BackgroundA large percentage of children with sensory processing challenges present with SOR. A better understanding of the experience of children with SOR is suggested to clarify severity and help parents respond effectively.MethodA retrospective analysis was conducted. An anonymous survey questionnaire was sent to 110 members of an online support group. Thirty‐six parent responses were collected from families of children with sensory processing challenges in San Francisco.ResultsResults indicated 88.9% of parents reported their child experiencing an SOR meltdown, with 51.4% having asked their child what a sensory meltdown feels like, and 31.4% reporting an experience of pain. Those children who responded to the question “does it hurt?” offered descriptions reflective of an “assault” (e.g., “it feels like knives are stabbing my bones,” “it's killing me,” “it's completely overwhelming”). Only 30.6% of parents reported feeling confident about how to respond to their child during sensory events.ConclusionDescriptions reported in this exploratory study suggest a change in terminology. Preliminary evidence suggests that these meltdowns may be more accurately described as sensory assaults.ImplicationsThis perspective could influence parental and societal views of children with SOR. More research is needed to determine how widespread the experience of pain with SOR is and if a better understanding of children's experiences can inform family interventions.