sensory systems

The Eight Sensory Systems

FlowArt
June 12, 2024•5 min read

Sensory processing is a critical function of the human nervous system, allowing us to interpret and respond to sensory information from our environment and our own bodies. While this process is seamless for many, it can be a significant challenge for others, particularly those with sensory processing disorder (SPD) or related conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental coordination disorder (DCD). This article explores the intricacies of sensory processing, the eight sensory systems, and the implications of sensory processing challenges.

The Eight Sensory Systems

While traditionally, we think of five senses—sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell—there are actually eight sensory systems that play a vital role in how we perceive and interact with the world:

  1. Visual (Sight): Involves the perception of light, color, shape, and movement. Visual processing issues can affect reading, writing, and recognizing faces​.  Individuals with visual processing difficulties may require additional support such as visual aids, modified lighting, and environmental adaptations to reduce visual clutter​​.

  2. Auditory (Hearing): Responsible for detecting and interpreting sounds. Auditory processing difficulties can lead to challenges in following verbal instructions and sensitivity to background noise​​.  Individuals with auditory processing challenges might benefit from soundproofing measures, the use of headphones, and clear, concise verbal communication​​.

  3. Tactile (Touch): Involves the perception of pressure, temperature, traction, and pain. Tactile processing issues can result in either hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to touch​​, affecting comfort with certain fabrics, textures, and physical contact. Strategies to support tactile processing include using a variety of textures in toys and clothing, providing fidget tools, and allowing for sensory play activities such as playing with sand, water, or Play-Doh​

  4. Gustatory (Taste): The detection of taste through taste buds on the tongue. Issues here can lead to strong food preferences or aversions​​ to certain flavors and textures, which can influence eating habits and nutrition. Strategies to support gustatory processing include gradually introducing new foods, using strong flavors in a controlled manner, and ensuring a comfortable and non-stressful eating environment​​.

  5. Olfactory (Smell): Allows for the detection and identification of odors. Problems in olfactory processing can impact safety (e.g., not detecting smoke) and the enjoyment of foods​. Support strategies include minimizing strong odors, using unscented products, and providing familiar scents to help with grounding and comfort​​.

  6. Vestibular (Balance and Spatial Orientation): Located in the inner ear, this system helps control balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular issues can affect coordination and movement​​, affecting activities such as riding a bike, navigating through spaces, and performing complex motor tasks. Vestibular support strategies include providing opportunities for movement, using balance equipment, and incorporating activities that stimulate the vestibular system, such as swinging or spinning​​.

  7. Proprioception (Body Awareness): Involves sensing the position and movement of the body through receptors in muscles and joints. Issues can lead to clumsiness and difficulty with motor skills​​, and problems judging force or distance. Support strategies include using weighted blankets, engaging in activities that involve heavy work or deep pressure, and practicing motor skills in a structured and supportive environment​​.

  8. Interoception (Internal Bodily Awareness): The ability to sense internal bodily states such as hunger, thirst, pain,  and the need to use the bathroom. Problems in interoception can result in either a heightened sensitivity to internal sensations or an inability to recognize these cues, and affect overall health and well-being. Support strategies include teaching individuals to recognize and interpret bodily signals, using visual aids to remind them of bodily needs, and incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques​​.

Sensory Processing Issues

Sensory processing issues can manifest in various ways, broadly categorized into sensory seeking, sensory avoiding, and sensory challenged behaviors.

  1. Sensory Seekers: Crave sensory input and may engage in behaviors such as touching everything, seeking out loud environments, or preferring strong smells and flavors.

  2. Sensory Avoiders: Hypersensitive to sensory input and may avoid certain textures, sounds, or smells, becoming easily overwhelmed by sensory stimuli​.

  3. Sensory Challenged: Have difficulty processing sensory input accurately, leading to confusion or misinterpretation of sensory information.

Strategies for Managing Sensory Processing Issues

For Sensory Seekers:

  • Provide safe sensory experiences such as using sensory toys, engaging in physical activities, or incorporating strong flavors and smells in a controlled manner.

  • Encourage activities that provide deep pressure or proprioceptive input, like weighted blankets or heavy lifting tasks.

For Sensory Avoiders:

  • Create a calm and predictable environment with minimal sensory distractions.

  • Use noise-canceling headphones, soft lighting, and comfortable clothing to reduce sensory overload.

  • Gradually introduce new sensory experiences in a controlled and supportive way.

For Sensory Challenged:

  • Work with occupational therapists or art therapists to develop personalized strategies and interventions.

  • Use visual supports and step-by-step instructions to aid in understanding and processing information.

  • Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help manage stress and anxiety related to sensory processing difficulties​.

Conclusion

Understanding sensory processing and its complexities is essential for supporting individuals with sensory processing issues. By recognizing the unique ways in which sensory information is processed and providing appropriate strategies and environments, we can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by sensory challenges.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of sensory processing, highlighting the need for awareness and appropriate interventions to support individuals facing sensory processing challenges.

For more reading, check out the rest of our blogs on the sensory series! Next up is the sensory experience of sight!

References: 



sensorysensory systemssensory overloadoverwhelmautismsensory processing
Dr. Misty Gibson holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, and LMHC and LCPC as practicing licenses, as well as the certifications of ATR-BC, ATCS, ACS, and CST.

Misty Gibson, PhD

Dr. Misty Gibson holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, and LMHC and LCPC as practicing licenses, as well as the certifications of ATR-BC, ATCS, ACS, and CST.

Back to Blog