The Two Sides of Sensory Experience in Autism
Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity to sensory input, such as sights, sounds, smells, and textures. This is because their brains have difficulty filtering out this information. As Dr. Luke Bearden, a senior lecturer and Autism researcher at Sheffield Hallam University, explains, while a non-autistic person’s brain filters a “huge amount” of sensory stimuli, an autistic person is “aware of all of it”. This inability to filter out the onslaught of information can lead to sensory overload, which can be a very distressing experience.
The Negative Consequences of Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity can make it difficult for autistic people to function in everyday life. For example:
- Someone who is hypersensitive to sound may find it impossible to concentrate in a noisy environment.
- Someone who is hypersensitive to smell may have trouble eating certain foods or even being in certain places, like a school cafeteria.
- In some cases, hypersensitivity can even lead to physical pain.
Dr. Bearden shares the example of how some young adults have been misdiagnosed with anorexia when in fact they were experiencing “sensory aversions to certain types of food”. This misdiagnosis highlights the importance of understanding the sensory experiences of autistic people and how they can impact their behaviour. Medical professionals, educators, and family members must be aware of the potential for sensory sensitivities to be misinterpreted as other conditions. This awareness can help ensure that autistic individuals receive appropriate support and understanding.
The Positive Aspects of Sensory Experience
However, it is important to remember that sensory experience is not always negative for autistic people. Many autistic people also experience sensory input in a deeply enjoyable way. For example:
- They may enjoy the feeling of certain textures.
- The sound of certain music.
- The smell of certain scents.
Dr. Bearden notes some autistic people experience “sensory joy” from “sniffing the dog or listening to the noise of geese on brand new snow”. This “sensory joy” can be a powerful source of comfort and happiness for autistic people. It can provide a sense of connection to the world around them and help them to feel more grounded and present.
Chris, who is interviewing Dr. Bearden, describes his own experience of sensory seeking in nature: “When I come here I want everything to come in the sound of the trees in the wind some of the trees in the rain and to know them differently for me is brings uh I was going to say brings me joy it it’s not actually it’s not it’s Comfort”. For Chris, being in nature and experiencing the sensory input of the wind, rain, and trees brings him peace and comfort. This highlights how sensory experiences can be very personal and individualized. What one person finds overwhelming, another may find calming and enjoyable.
Creating Sensory-Friendly Environments
Understanding the two sides of sensory experience in autism can help us to create more inclusive and accommodating environments for autistic people. We can do this by:
- Transforming public spaces into sensory havens: Replace harsh fluorescent lights with adjustable, natural-tone lighting, incorporate calming soundscapes, and design areas with sensory-neutral materials to foster comfort for all.
- Curating immersive sensory-friendly zones: Introduce portable pods or tents equipped with noise-dampening panels, tactile elements, and aromatherapy options to create sanctuaries within bustling events.
- Reimagining accessibility tools: Develop stylish and discreet sensory aids, such as fashionable noise-cancelling accessories or wearable weighted garments, allowing individuals to manage their needs seamlessly.
- Promoting empathy through sensory simulations: Offer workshops where participants can experience sensory overload and joy, deepening understanding and compassion for autistic individuals’ sensory realities.
- Championing sensory inclusion in design: Encourage architects and urban planners to integrate sensory-friendly principles into building layouts, parks, and community spaces, prioritizing well-being and inclusivity from the ground up.
Sensory experiences paint vivid landscapes in the lives of autistic people, carrying the potential to overwhelm or enchant them. Instead of trying to erase these unique interactions, society has a chance to honour them, to listen more deeply and embrace what makes each individual shine. Every texture touched, sound savoured, and scent cherished tells a story of connection. Building a world that values these stories reflects not just understanding, but a profound respect for the vibrant ways autistic people engage with life. The path forward is not simply inclusion but celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is sensory overload? Sensory overload is a state of overwhelm that can occur when an autistic person is exposed to too much sensory input. This can happen in busy or noisy environments, or when there are strong smells or bright lights. Symptoms of sensory overload can include anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even physical pain.
- What are some common sensory sensitivities in autism? Autistic people can be sensitive to a wide range of sensory input, including sights, sounds, smells, tastes, textures, and movement. Some common sensory sensitivities include sensitivity to bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, certain textures (such as scratchy clothing), and certain tastes or food temperatures.
- How can I help someone who is experiencing sensory overload? If you are with someone who is experiencing sensory overload, the best thing to do is to help them to get to a quiet and safe place. You can also offer them noise-cancelling headphones, a weighted blanket, or other sensory tools that may help them to feel calmer and grounded.
- What is sensory seeking? Sensory seeking is when an autistic person actively seeks out certain sensory experiences that they find enjoyable. For example, they might enjoy spinning, swinging, or listening to loud music. Sensory seeking is a way for autistic people to regulate their sensory input and to feel more comfortable in their environment.
- How can I create a more sensory-friendly environment? You can do many things to create a more sensory-friendly environment for autistic people. This includes reducing noise and clutter, dimming lights, providing quiet areas, and offering sensory options (such as fidget toys, weighted blankets, and noise-cancelling headphones). You can also make sure that your environment is predictable and consistent, as this can help to reduce anxiety for autistic people.