Autistic people can experience both hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) and hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to a wide range of stimuli. Most people have a combination of both. Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity to bright lights or certain light wavelengths (e.g., fluorescent lights).
What is hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity?
Hypersensitivity is when children are extremely reactive to sensory stimulation. They may find these stimuli overwhelming. Sunlight could be too bright or a noise level that would not bother others could make them cover their ears. Hyposensitivity is when children are under-sensitive to stimulation.21 ago 2018
How do you desensitize a child with autism?
An example of desensitization would be introducing new foods to a child on the autism spectrum who has problems with the smell, taste and texture of certain foods. Its gradual introduction can help the child to become desensitized to the smell, look and texture of an unfamiliar food.