Identifying ways to reduce sensory burden: sensory comfort and discomfort in autistic individuals.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting ~1 in 100 individuals and sensory processing differences are recognised diagnostic criteria. One sensory processing difference found in autism is heightened reactivity (hyperreactivity) to sensory stimuli, which can make everyday environments uncomfortable and disabling, thereby presenting barriers to community inclusion.
My research aims to identify the sensory parameters that contribute to comfort and discomfort in autistic individuals within real-world, everyday contexts, as to build an evidence-base to inform adaptation of more inclusive facilities and resources. Specifically, by considering multiple sensory aspects together, I will determine how these may interact to influence overall sensory experience.
The first study will use qualitative methods to explore the lived experiences of autistic individuals’ sensory comfort and discomfort within an everyday context. Subsequent studies will use quantitative and lab-based approaches, building on this qualitative work to identify specific sensory parameters associated with comfort and discomfort, and to examine how different sensory inputs may combine to influence overall sensory experiences. The findings will inform the design of more inclusive environments.