What is at the core of autistic spectrum disorder?
Sensory processing challenges in autistic spectrum disorder
A frequently mentioned characteristic of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is delayed language development and difficulty in interpersonal communication.
It is impossible to explain one disease by a single cause, but nonetheless, what is at the core of the symptoms of ASD?
The paper I discuss today is a review article on ASD and sensory processing challenges.
The paper notes that sensory processing challenges in ASD include hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity and difficulty in integrating various sensations, and suggests that these symptoms (using that term despite my reservations about it) may reflect a root problem at the core of the symptoms, rather than explaining ASD.
Learning to use language occurs by appropriately sensing visual and auditory information, and like communicating with people, the first step is appropriate input and integration from the senses as the entry point for information.
The paper suggests that for this reason, various problems in sensory processing in ASD affect a broad range of higher-order functions, as shown in the diagram above.
Personally, I sometimes have trouble telling what is good and what is bad, and am skeptical about having a society that enforces “normalcy.” I think there should be systems and tools for understanding each other, approaching each other, and closing the gaps between each other.
Reference URL: Behavioral, Perceptual, and Neural Alterations in Sensory and Multisensory Function in Autism Spectrum Disorder
