So far in this journey of understanding ABA therapy, I have covered everything from emotions and basic prompting to larger applications like generalization.
Many people on the autism spectrum have difficulty processing sensory information. These sensory differences can affect learning and day to day behavior.
Sometimes an autistic person may behave in a way that you wouldn't immediately link to sensory sensitivities. A person who struggles to deal with everyday sensory information can experience sensory overload, or information overload. Sensory overload occurs when the brain and the nervous system become bombarded with too much sensory input from one or more sensory systems and cannot process and sort out the incoming sensory messages. This can ultimately cause stress, anxiety, and possibly physical pain and can result in withdrawal, a meltdown and change in behavior and like not adhering to directions.
The main areas of processing difficulties are seen when a child is hypersensitive or hypo-sensitive to the seven senses which are sight, sound, touch, taste, smell as well as balance (vestibular) and body awareness. For example, a child with hypersensitive vision could have distorted vision when objects and bright lights appear to jump about. They may find it easier to focus on one spot of detail because the surroundings can be overwhelming especially if it is distorted, too bright and fragmented. They may avoid certain rooms, lighting, objects as it may increase their sensitivity.
To help someone on the spectrum with sensory overload, watch and be prepared. Take note of the environment at all times and keep it away from the triggers when possible. Watch for signs and sensory signals of possible overload and respond right then and there. Don't push through, and be there for them.
I hope you have all enjoyed these ABA sessions as much as I have!
