Sensory Processing

Sensory processing refers to the way the nervous system receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input from the environment, including sound, light, touch, smell, taste, and movement. When sensory processing works differently — as is common in autistic individuals and people with other neurodivergent conditions — everyday stimuli can be experienced as overwhelming, painful, or disorienting. Sensory processing differences affect an estimated 50-70% of autistic people and can manifest as hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness), hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness), or sensory seeking behaviors. Understanding sensory processing is essential for designing accessible environments and assistive technologies that accommodate diverse sensory needs.