Inside the Autistic Mind –Understanding a spectrum of sensory differences

“If we change the environment, a person with Autism can have far more success. Small changes can make all the difference.” ~ Rady Children’s Autism Discovery Institute

For most people, sensory input is processed smoothly by the brain, filtering and interpreting information without us even noticing. For individuals on the Autism spectrum, sensory processing works differently. Their brains may interpret sounds, lights, textures and other sensory information in ways that are overwhelming or muted, significantly impacting daily life.

What is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is the way our brain receives, interprets and responds to information from our five senses, as well as inputs like balance (vestibular) and body awareness (proprioception). Imagine being in a car and your brain is the driver, interpreting signals to help navigate the world.

The Process

1. Sensation: Sensory information (sight, for example) is first received by the sensory organs (the eyes, in this case) and sent to the brain for processing.

2. Perception: The brain interprets sensory information, assigns meaning to it, and helps navigate the world. For

example, ears may hear a loud sound as an alarm or a pleasant song.

3. Response: Responses can be physical, emotional or behavioral and vary greatly depending on how the brain processes and interprets sensory input.

HYPERsensitivity vs. HYPOsensitivity

There are different ways of navigating the world, such as sensory avoidant (when the world feels too intense) and sensory seeker (when the world feels too dull).

Sensory Avoidant. Hypersensitivity means the brain cranks up the volume on sensory input. It’s like driving with the windows down on a busy freeway—except the honks, tire screeches and truck rumbles happen inside your car. Overwhelming and possibly painful, hypersensitivity can lead to distress, withdrawal or self-calming behaviors such as rocking. It may trigger a meltdown, causing a “fight or flight” response.

According to Pragya Agarwal, a behavioral scientist, the brain is exposed to 11 million bits of information every second, but a typical brain can only process 40–50 bits at a time. In contrast, a hypersensitive brain doesn’t filter out background noise; it absorbs all sensory stimuli at once—every horn, conversation, engine, blinker and light simultaneously.

Possible hypersensitive reactions include:

• Easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, strong smells or crowded spaces

• Noticing subtle changes in environment

• Feeling deeply affected by others’ emotions

• Seeking alone time to recharge

• Sensitivity to criticism

• Having a vivid imagination

• Being easily startled

• Being deeply moved by art and music

• Being a picky eater, often with bland or extreme food preferences

• Difficulty chewing and swallowing

Sensory Seeker. On the flip side, hyposensitivity is like the brain’s volume knob being stuck on “quiet.” You don’t notice certain things; you might need more intensity to notice them. This can lead to safety risks or missing social cues. Sensory seekers crave more stimulation to compensate for their reduced sensory sensitivity.

Possible hyposensitive responses include:

• Difficulty recognizing hunger or being full

• Constant need to touch people or textures

• Attraction to loud noises and bright lights

• Listening to the TV or radio very loudly

• High tolerance for pain

• Not understanding personal space or boundaries

• Not feeling or experiencing temperature

• Difficulty learning new things

• Enjoying intense movements, like jumping and spinning

• Preference to foods with intense flavor, condiments or seasonings

• Frequent chewing on hair, shirt or fingers

A person can be hyper sensitive to some senses and hyposensitive to others, which is common with Autism, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It’s important to note that having these traits doesn’t mean someone has Autism, and not everyone with Autism will experience them.

How to Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment

“To help people with Autism, we must invest in sensoryfriendly environments,” says Nichole Scheerer, PhD in neuroscience and assistant professor of psychology. “An autistic child may perform poorly in class, not due to cognitive difficulties, but because sensory processing challenges interfere with concentration.”

Tips to create sensory-friendly spaces:

USE EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION. If a child is overstimulated, body language may be more effective than words. Recognizing sensory distress can prevent escalation. Sometimes just being quiet and guiding deep breaths can help. “Provide a mode of communication and empower the person to express what is needed in their environment,” says Rebecca Ruiz, M.A., from Cornerstone Behavioral Health Specialists.

PROVIDE CALMING SPACES. “I combine OT principles with sensory play, using strategies like dim lights, cozy spaces and comforting textures to promote connection while minimizing electronics,” says sensory expert Sarah Thorsnes, owner of Thor Designs in San Diego.

ALLOW SELF-REGULATION. Stimming (repetitive action or movement) helps regulate sensory and emotional experiences. “Rather than [trying to stop] stimming, it’s important to understand its role in self-regulation,” says Ruiz.

MAKE ACCOMMODATIONS. Modify the environment by offering visual aids, allowing breaks and fostering understanding. Occupational therapists can provide personalized support strategies. See the “Occupational Therapy” section of this publication for resources.

BE SUPPORTIVE. Recognize and understand that people have sensory differences a variety of needs to feel safe.

People with Autism experience the world differently, particularly in how they process sensory input. “Inclusivity is not only beneficial for those who seemingly need it,” says Anna, a local neurodivergent person. “Change starts when core beliefs are challenged.” Let’s create an environment where all people feel comfortable, safe and empowered. v

Linda St. Angelo Burritt is an educator, resource specialist and local mother of two, one of whom has multiple disabilities.

If you suspect a loved one has Autism, consult your doctor for an evaluation referral, says Katie LeFort, care coordinator at Rady Children’s Autism Discovery Institute. For children under 6 with only Medi-Cal, visit www.rchsd.org/programs-services/ developmental-evaluation-clinic or call 858-966-5817 to request an evaluation from the Developmental Evaluation Clinic at Rady’s.

San Diego has many places that offer sensory-friendly spaces, special visiting hours or social stories for families, such as San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido and Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park. Check each company’s websites for details. Also visit www.SNRFSD.org for a more comprehensive list of sensory-friendly locations.