TRANSITION RELATED SENSORY ISSUES AMONG ADOLESCENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS: MENTAL HEALTH EXPERT’S PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory issues describes the experiences children (and adults) have when their brains interpret the sensory messages they receive differently. During transition phase many autistic adolescents experience sensory issues, meaning they may experience touch, sound, light/seeing, smell or taste in a much more intense or much lower degree than neurotypical teens. The present study was conducted to explore the transition related sensory issues faced by adolescents with the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders. Data of the present study was collected qualitatively using structured interview protocols. Data about study variables was taken from mental health professionals having expertise in the field of autism. During thematic, different themes were generated. Categories having the same responses were formed and common themes were dig out from interview content. Mental health professionals reported that transition brings a lot of change in the daily lives of ASD adolescents. They also reported that adjustment to the new environment is the most difficult task for ASD adolescents. They are habitual of their fixed routine. Any change in their fixed routine disturb them mentally and emotionally. They reported that many sensory issues including Repetitive behaviors, meaningless sounds, Irrelevant touch, hyperactivity are more commonly faced by ASD adolescents when they are in their transition phase