Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Also known as Dysfunction of Sensory Integration (DSI) and Sensory Integrative Dysfunction, Sensory Processing Disorder is the inability to properly process environmental stimuli, resulting in difficulties in the areas of arousal, emotions, motor abilities and behavior, which can impact a person’s ability to perform optimally in their various performance environments.
Signs of SPD can include:
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to touch (low tolerance for clothing tags, socks, splashing water, haircuts)
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to smell
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to taste (has an extremely limited diet, gags easily)
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to sounds (often covers ears or plays tv/radio too loud)
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to light/visual stimuli
  - Over (or under) sensitivity to heights/movement
  - Poor coordination/balance/seems awkward
  - High distractibility
  - Impulsiveness
  - Sensory seeking behavior (often crashing, spinning, touching, fidgeting)
  - Unusually high or low activity level
  - Fine motor problems (trouble with small items, buttons/fasteners, puzzles, cutting, writing)
  - Gross motor problems (trouble with kicking, catching, throwing)
  - Most of play is sedentary (tv, video games, reading)
  - Trouble following directions
  - Exceptionally high pain tolerance
  - Low tolerance to changes/resists new situations
  - Fatigues easily
  - Social/emotional difficulties, poor self image