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ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Evaluation and comparison of methods for assessing sensory integration in children with autism spectrum disorders and mild mental retardation
Yeltsin Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
There are no financial grants or other sources of research support for this study.
Sensation is essential for human perception and understanding of the environment, underpinning complex cognitive functions. This study examines sensory integration (SI) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and mild intellectual disabilities (ID) aged 6-12. We compare three assessment methods: the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT), Sensory Profile, and Sensory Processing Measure 2nd Edition (SPM-2). Each method's efficacy in identifying sensory processing challenges was evaluated. Results indicated that children with ASD exhibited significant difficulties in auditory, vestibular, and touch processing compared to the ID group. Although the SIPT is considered a gold standard, its complexity may limit effectiveness for children with ASD. The Sensory Profile emerged as the most comprehensive tool for assessing visual perception and sensory processing patterns, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions. The findings highlight the importance of early screening and individualized assessment tools in promoting adaptive development and addressing sensory integration challenges in clinical practice.
Keywords: Sensory Integration (SI), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disability (ID), Assessment Methods, Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT), Sensory Profile, Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2)