We process sensory information using our senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. Everyone has a different level of tolerance/acceptability towards these. For example, few like too spicy food some might not, some like strong fragrances others might not and even are allergic to them, some people are sensitive towards touch that they might not like the sensation of labels on the inside of clothes, etc.
People are sometimes oversensitive or under-sensitive to sensory information. This means their senses take in either too much or too little information from their environment. Similarly, Autistic people may be oversensitive or under-sensitive to sensory information. The thing to note is that not all autistic people have sensory sensitivities, but some might have several.
Oversensitive to sensory information
When people are oversensitive to sensory information, it’s called hypersensitivity. These people try to avoid sensory experiences – for example, they might cover their ears when they hear loud noises, eat only foods with a certain texture or taste, wear only certain types of loose-fitting clothing, or resist having haircuts or brushing teeth.
Under-sensitive to sensory information
When people are under-sensitive to sensory information, it’s called hyposensitivity. These people seek out sensory experiences – for example, they might wear tight-fitting clothing, look for things to touch, hear or taste, or rub their arms and legs against things.
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