Regulation Disorders of Sensory Processing–Understanding the Complexities of Child-parents Relationship

Abstract

Introduction

Many authors have agreed on the clinical importance of sensory regulation for a child's cognitive, affective and social development. Sensory regulation abilities are fundamental for an efficient modulation of internal states and the development of appropriately graded responses to the constantly changing sensory experiences. Sensory modulation deficit is an essential feature of regulation disorders of sensory processing (RDSP), that is characterized by difficulties in regulating emotions, behaviors and motor abilities, in response to sensory stimulation and lead to impairment in functioning. We also know that, through daily interactions and early relationship (child's attachment), parents play a crucial role on child's regulation in terms of their emotional and physical availability and how they interpret and respond to child needs.

Objective

The authors will present a clinical case of a two-year child who has been diagnosed with RDSP, highlighting the main features, types (hypersensitive; hyposensitive/under-responsive; sensory-stimulation seeking/impulsive) and challenges of this disturb.

Aims

Explore the association between sensory regulation difficulties, RDSP and child attachment.

Methods

Systematic literature review.

Results

Recent studies showed the high prevalence of sensory regulation difficulties (33–76%) and insecure attachment (80%) in children with psychiatric disorders. Results also revealed that children with greater sensory impairment were significantly more likely to show elevated scores of insecurity (avoidance and dependence) to their caregiver.

Conclusions

This work underscores the caregiver's role as a facilitator of child integration and response to sensory stimuli and its importance on the development of behavioral and emotional disorders. This can help early diagnosis and better treatment who prevent future psychiatric conditions.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.