Sensory processing in children with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A comparative study using the Short Sensory Profile

Abstract

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the sensory modulation disorders among others like autism, Asperger syndrome and Fragile X syndrome. Little is known about patients with ADHD and their sensory processing issues in Sri Lanka.

Aims

To investigate differences in sensory processing among children between (3–10) yrs with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and those who are typically developing in Sri Lanka.

Methods

A descriptive cross sectional study of 75 children aged (3–10) yrs attending child guidance clinic at Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) were compared with 75 age matched peers who were typically developing, using the Short Sensory Profile (SSP).

Results

Out of the sample population of 150, there was a significant difference in sensory processing total score (P-0.001) (df-29) of children with ADHD when compared to the typically developing group. The greatest differences were reported on the tactile (P-0.013), taste (P-0.000), under responsiveness (P-0.002), auditory filtering (P-0.002) & low energy (P-0.017). Out of the raw items commonest sensory processing problems were difficulty standing in line, distractability if there is a lot of noise around, being unable to work with background noise & difficulty paying attention due to auditory deficits.

Conclusions

Majority of children in this sample were reported to have difficulties with processing and responding to sensory input on the SSP. Further studies are needed to assess sensory issues in children with ADHD, to carry out effective interventions.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.