Response to vestibular sensory events in autism

The purpose of this study was to examine the response to vestibular sensory events in persons with autism. The data for this study was collected as part of a cross-sectional study that examined sensory processing (using the Sensory Profile) in 103 persons with autism, 3–43 years of age, compared to age- and gender-matched community controls. The Vestibular Processing section of the Sensory Profile was used. The results showed that Vestibular Processing (both high and low threshold processing) on the Sensory Profile was significantly different in persons with autism as compared to community controls, with persons with autism engaging in the behaviors more frequently than the controls. Vestibular processing differences could explain certain problems in autism. It is important to try to understand sensory problems in autism because it can enable us to better understand the needs of persons with autism, and in turn, influence treatment protocols.