Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) are two distinct conditions, though they often share overlapping symptoms, especially in terms of sensory sensitivities.
ASD is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Children with autism may struggle with understanding social cues, forming relationships, or adapting to changes in routine. Sensory processing, however, is just one area that can be affected in autism.
On the other hand, Sensory Processing Disorder is a condition where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information from the senses. Children with SPD may overreact or underreact to stimuli like sound, touch, taste, or light. While SPD can exist independently, it often co-occurs with autism.
The key difference lies in the broader scope of ASD, which includes communication and social challenges, while SPD is specifically related to how the brain processes sensory information.
At Little Champs ABA, we are serving families, and we specialize in evidence-based ABA therapy in Colorado and Utah to support children with autism and related challenges.
Learn how we can help your child thrive. Contact us today!
SOURCES:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sensory-processing-disorder-vs-autism
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-sensory-processing-disorder/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10687592/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-sensory-revolution/202012/its-not-autism-its-sensory-processing-disorder
https://www.drakeinstitute.com/sensory-processing-disorder-vs-autism