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McQuiddy VA, Ingram M, Vines M, Teeters S, Ramstetter A, Strain-Riggs SR. Long-Term Impact of an Occupational Therapy Intervention for Children With Challenges in Sensory Processing and Integration. Am J Occup Ther 2024; 78:7804185060. [PMID: 38805003 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2024.050449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Research is limited regarding parent-caregiver perspectives of occupational therapy (OT) intervention for children with challenges in sensory processing and integration and whether changes immediately following OT intervention are sustained over time. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether changes in identified goals are maintained following OT intervention and to determine what aspects of OT intervention parents-caregivers perceive to be most valuable. DESIGN A mixed-methods research design. SETTING A large midwestern pediatric hospital, with follow-up telephone interviews with parents-caregivers. PARTICIPANTS Sixteen children with sensory challenges and their parents-caregivers. INTERVENTION Children participated in 1-hr OT intervention sessions, 3 days per wk, for 6 to 7 wk. Parents-caregivers of children who completed OT intervention were interviewed via the telephone 6 to 12 mo after the intervention. OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) were used to determine whether changes were made and sustained over time. Qualitative data on caregiver perceptions of OT intervention were collected via open-ended questions during phone interviews. COPM and GAS scores before intervention were statistically significant compared with scores immediately following intervention and at 6- to 12-mo follow-up. Five themes emerged from the qualitative data. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Children with sensory challenges made significant changes related to occupational performance following OT intervention, and goal achievement was sustained over time. Parents-caregivers valued many aspects of the OT program, including the increased frequency of therapy services, the occupational therapist's advanced knowledge and skills, and the education and information provided during the program. Plain-Language Summary: This study supports the results of previous studies on OT intervention for children with challenges in sensory processing and integration. The study also adds to the body of knowledge that shows that changes and progress toward goals that result from skilled OT intervention can be sustained over time. The study showed that children participating in OT intervention made statistically significant changes while receiving OT services and maintained progress after intervention ended; however, the children did not continue to make significant progress toward goals once skilled OT services ended. Parents and caregivers of children with sensory challenges reported that they found OT intervention to be beneficial. Other important factors influencing the effectiveness of OT intervention that were identified by parents-caregivers included the education provided by the occupational therapist, the increased frequency of therapy services, and the increased knowledge and skills of the occupational therapists who provided the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Ann McQuiddy
- Victoria Ann McQuiddy, PhD, MHS, OTR/L, is Associate Professor, Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Nutrition Sciences, University of Cincinnati, and Occupational Therapist, Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH;
| | - Marissa Ingram
- Marissa Ingram, MOT, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, The Resource Exchange, Colorado Springs, CO. At the time of this research Ingram was Student, Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Nutrition Sciences, University of Cincinnati, OH
| | - Madison Vines
- Madison Vines, MOT, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, ABC Pediatric Therapy, Cincinnati, OH. At the time of this research, Vines was Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Nutrition Sciences, University of Cincinnati, OH
| | - Shannon Teeters
- Shannon Teeters, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Anna Ramstetter
- Anna Ramstetter, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Sara-Ruth Strain-Riggs
- Sara-Ruth Strain-Riggs, DHSc, MOT, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
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Marzolla MC, Thielen H, Hurks P, Borghans L, van Heugten C. Qualitative data on triggers and coping of sensory hypersensitivity in acquired brain injury patients: A proposed model. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2024; 34:802-822. [PMID: 37616553 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2023.2242616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Sensory hypersensitivity (SHS) is a frequently heard complaint after acquired brain injury (ABI) and is related to reduced quality of life and physical and mental health. This study aimed to identify triggers for SHS after ABI and investigate how individuals cope with SHS. Nineteen adults with ABI took part in 45-min individual interviews. Data were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis revealed five themes: (1) A mismatch between resources and demands, (2) Altered experience of ordinary stimuli, (3) It affects all aspects of living, (4) Avoid, approach, accept, (5) It's highly heterogeneous. A model explaining the impact of triggers on subjective SHS after ABI is proposed, which states that SHS arises from a mismatch between the demands of a sensory environment (triggers) and the available biopsychosocial resources of an individual to meet these demands. The elicited SHS can affect and be affected by levels of fatigue, which limits the resources and creates a loop. Coping strategies can act on various stages of this model, i.e., to reduce the mismatch and potentially alter the loop. This model can contribute to the identification of mechanisms behind SHS in ABI patients and other populations, ultimately leading to evidence-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilien C Marzolla
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Limburg Brain Injury Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hella Thielen
- Department Brain & Cognition, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Petra Hurks
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Lex Borghans
- School of Business and Economics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Caroline van Heugten
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Limburg Brain Injury Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Ponce-Valencia A, Jiménez-Rodríguez D, Hernández Morante JJ, Martínez Cortés C, Pérez-Sánchez H, Echevarría Pérez P. An Interpretable Machine Learning Approach to Predict Sensory Processing Sensitivity Trait in Nursing Students. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:913-928. [PMID: 38667814 PMCID: PMC11049261 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14040059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a personality trait that makes certain individuals excessively sensitive to stimuli. People carrying this trait are defined as Highly Sensitive People (HSP). The SPS trait is notably prevalent among nursing students and nurse staff. Although there are HSP diagnostic tools, there is little information about early detection. Therefore, the aim of this work was to develop a prediction model to identify HSP and provide an individualized nursing assessment. A total of 672 nursing students completed all the evaluations. In addition to the HSP diagnosis, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and conflict styles were evaluated. An interpretable machine learning model was trained to predict the SPS trait. We observed a 33% prevalence of HSP, which was higher in women and people with previous health training. HSP were characterized by greater emotional repair (p = 0.033), empathy (p = 0.030), respect (p = 0.038), and global communication skills (p = 0.036). Overall, sex and emotional intelligence dimensions are important to detect this trait, although personal characteristics should be considered. The present individualized prediction model could help to predict the presence of the SPS trait in nursing students, which may be useful in conducting intervention strategies to avoid the negative consequences and reinforce the positive ones of this trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Ponce-Valencia
- Faculty of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Murcia, Campus de Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (P.E.P.)
| | - Diana Jiménez-Rodríguez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Almería, Carretera Sacramento s/n, 04120 Almería, Spain;
| | - Juan José Hernández Morante
- Faculty of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Murcia, Campus de Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (P.E.P.)
| | - Carlos Martínez Cortés
- Structural Bioinformatics and High-Performance Computing (BIO-HPC) Research Group, Universidad Católica de Murcia, Campus de Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (C.M.C.); (H.P.-S.)
| | - Horacio Pérez-Sánchez
- Structural Bioinformatics and High-Performance Computing (BIO-HPC) Research Group, Universidad Católica de Murcia, Campus de Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (C.M.C.); (H.P.-S.)
| | - Paloma Echevarría Pérez
- Faculty of Nursing, Universidad Católica de Murcia, Campus de Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (P.E.P.)
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Qin Y. Spice up the moment: The influence of spicy taste on people's metaphorical perspectives on time. Perception 2024; 53:240-262. [PMID: 38332618 DOI: 10.1177/03010066241229269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Embodied cognition contends that sensorimotor experiences undergird cognitive processes. Three embodied cross-domain metaphorical mappings constitute quintessential illustrations: spatial navigation and orientation underpin the conceptualization of time and emotion and gustatory sensation underlies the formulation of emotion. Threading together these strands of insights, the present research consisted of three studies explored the potential influence of spicy taste on people's metaphorical perspectives on time. The results revealed a positive correlation between spicy taste and the ego-moving metaphor for time such that individuals who enjoyed spicy taste (Study 1) and who consumed spicy (vs. salty) snack (Study 2) exhibited a predilection for the ego-moving perspective when cognizing a temporally ambiguous event. Because both spicy taste and the ego-moving metaphor are associated with anger and approach motivation, the latter two were postulated to be related to the novel taste-time relationship. Corroborative evidence for the hypothesis was found, which indicated that spicy (vs. salty) intake elicited significantly stronger anger toward and significantly greater approach-motivated perception of a rescheduled temporal event (Study 3). Taken together, the current findings demonstrate that spicy taste may play a role in people's perspectives on the movement of events in time and highlight the involved embodied interrelation between language, emotion, and cognition.
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Mills C, Tracey D, Nash S, Gorkin R. Perceptions of a virtual reality sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:565-574. [PMID: 36727413 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2169773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mental ill health and sensory processing difficulties often limit participation in everyday life for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Interventions using technology such as virtual reality (VR) are increasingly accessible and may mitigate these difficulties. Understanding what contributes to the successful implementation of novel interventions is important for future use and evaluation. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of implementing a VR sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities, their carers and support staff and to explore future iterations of the product and process. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirteen stakeholders who participated in a pilot trial of a VR sensory room were interviewed. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. RESULTS Eleven themes were identified which indicated that adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities found the VR sensory room to be mostly acceptable and enjoyable with usage largely consistent. Individual variation and support requirements were highlighted for each user. Future use may require modifications to the headset, in-built customisation options as well as buy-in and training for support staff. CONCLUSIONS The VR Sensory room is a promising tool to support adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities and results warrant further scaled research into the impact of this tool on outcomes for adults with disabilities.Implications for RehabilitationWhilst adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities may experience sensory processing difficulties which impact their everyday life, there is a paucity of interventions to address these difficulties.Implementation studies offer the opportunity to explore how evidence-based interventions may be implemented to facilitate the best outcomes.A Virtual Reality Sensory Room may offer an innovative alternative to a traditional sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities where implementation is well supported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Mills
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
| | - Danielle Tracey
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
| | - Simone Nash
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Gorkin
- SMART Infrastructure Facility, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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Costa-López B, Ferrer-Cascales R, Ruiz-Robledillo N, Albaladejo-Blázquez N, Baryła-Matejczuk M. A comparative study of differences between parents and teachers in the evaluation of environmental sensitivity. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1291041. [PMID: 38187422 PMCID: PMC10771387 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1291041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The inextricable bond between humans and the environment underscores the pivotal significance of environmental sensitivity. This innate trait encompasses a wide array of ways individuals perceive, process, and react to various internal and external stimuli. The evaluation of this trait in children is generally conducted by parents. However, little is known about the concordance of the parents reports with those conducted by others, such as teachers. Children's behavior assessment is a current and relevant issue and finding out more positive results could make improvements in different contexts, such as home, clinics and schools. Objective This study examines agreements and discrepancies between parents and teachers as raters of environmental sensitivity in Spanish children. Methods Participants were 124 parents and eight teachers of youngsters between 3 and 10 years, who completed a paper survey providing information about parental and school variables and environmental sensitivity. Results Parents and teachers mostly differ when rating environmental sensitivity, being parents the raters who score higher levels of this trait than teachers. Also, poor intra-class coefficients of reliability are found in both the items of HSCS, the dimensions and the general factor of environmental sensitivity among the informants. Conclusion The present investigation provides novel findings related to inter-rater assessment on environmental sensitivity and how these different informants could affect in the report. This study also highlights the need of making and validating new and specific tools to assess environmental sensitivity for teachers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borja Costa-López
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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Gulácsi Á, Scheuring N, Stadler J, Siba M, Danis I. [Sensory food aversion in the context of a modern approach to eating disorders in early childhood]. Orv Hetil 2023; 164:1767-1777. [PMID: 37952193 DOI: 10.1556/650.2023.32872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Sensory food aversion, an early childhood eating disorder, is a serious, permanent form of picky eating, in which the infant or the child consistently and persistently refuses certain foods based on specific characteristics, following one or more previous aversive experiences. Biological (sensory processing disorder, taste sensitivity) and environmental factors contribute to its development. Due to limited diet, specific dietary deficiencies may occur but weight gain is usually normal. Behavioral problems, anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorder are often associated. Diagnosis can usually be made based on a detailed history, but further assessment may include pediatric examination, nutritionist consultation, and psychologic and occupational therapy assessment. Treatment is based on parent education and support in order to minimize mealtime battles and anxiety and to think together about strategies for expanding the child's diet and to help them to accept new foods. As part of the interdisciplinary team, the pediatrician's role is to monitor appropriate growth and development, exclude dietary deficiencies or prescribe supplementation if necessary. In our article, the screening and treatment of sensory processing disorder as part of the assessment of eating problems are introduced as an example of good clinical practice at the Early Childhood Eating and Sleep Disorder Outpatient Clinic at the Heim Pál National Institute of Pediatrics. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(45): 1767-1777.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágnes Gulácsi
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
| | - Noémi Scheuring
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
| | - Judit Stadler
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
- 2 Pest Vármegyei Pedagógiai Szakszolgálat Gödöllői Tagintézménye, Veresegyházi Telephely Veresegyház Magyarország
| | - Mónika Siba
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
- 3 Budapesti Korai Fejlesztő Központ Budapest Magyarország
| | - Ildikó Danis
- 4 Semmelweis Egyetem, Egészségügyi Közszolgálati Kar, Mentálhigiéné Intézet Budapest, Üllői út 26., 1085 Magyarország
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Miller DC, Schoen SA, Schmitt CM, Porter LM. Adolescents' and Adults' Perceptions of Sensory-Based Interventions: A Qualitative Analysis. Am J Occup Ther 2023; 77:7705205160. [PMID: 37768991 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2023.050198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Adolescents and adults report that their sensory integration and processing differences affect their occupational performance and quality of life, thus requiring effective sensory-focused interventions. Researchers have yet to investigate this population's experience of occupational therapy interventions designed to remediate these challenges. OBJECTIVE To explore the perceived experience of adolescents and adults with respect to (1) response to intervention, (2) strategies offered to manage sensory differences, and (3) need for services on completion of an intervention. DESIGN Retrospective, qualitative study. SETTING Zoom or phone call. PARTICIPANTS Eleven adolescents and adults with sensory integration and processing differences who had previously completed occupational therapy interventions. INTERVENTION Sensory-based intervention based on the principles of Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) and the Sensory Therapies and Research Frame of Reference. OUTCOMES AND MEASURES A semistructured interview to obtain data, followed by an in-depth analysis using an inductive coding process to group initial open codes into themes and common subthemes Results: Open codes were grouped into three core themes: (1) therapist-related factors (what the therapist did in treatment); (2) client-related factors (what the client experienced); and (3) follow-up (future needs of the clients). Four main subthemes of the client-therapist relationship emerged: (1) therapeutic alliance; (2) education and knowledge; (3) strategies, tools, and resources; and (4) future needs. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study provides a perspective on the experience of adolescents and adults specific to the impact of a sensory-focused occupational therapy intervention on their daily lives. This will help occupational therapists when designing interventions for current and future clients. What This Article Adds: This study highlights the need for further research addressing effective sensory-based interventions for adolescents and adults. It also captures which components of intervention clients deemed helpful and identifies potential targets for future intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana C Miller
- Dana C. Miller, OTD, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC. At the time of this study, she was Doctoral Student, Occupational Therapy Department, Wingate University, Wingate, NC
| | - Sarah A Schoen
- Sarah A. Schoen, PhD, OTR/L, is Director of Research, STAR Institute, Centennial, CO, and Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, Provo, UT;
| | - Carolyn M Schmitt
- Carolyn M. Schmitt, OTD, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Greenwood, CO. At the time of this study, she was Lead Occupational Therapist, STAR Institute, Centennial, CO
| | - Lisa M Porter
- Lisa M. Porter, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, is Assistant Professor, School of Occupational Therapy, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR. At the time of this study, she was Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Tennessee State University, Nashville
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May-Benson TA, Easterbrooks-Dick O, Teasdale A. Exploring the Prognosis: A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study of Children with Sensory Processing Challenges 8-32 Years Later. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1474. [PMID: 37761435 PMCID: PMC10529144 DOI: 10.3390/children10091474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Sensory integration and processing challenges have been long recognized in children and, more recently, in adults. To understand the long-term prognosis of these challenges, more research is needed on what children with sensory integration and processing challenges look like as adults. Using the Adult/Adolescent Sensory History, researchers followed up with 102 adults who had known sensory integration and processing challenges as children to examine the following questions: What is the current sensory processing status of adults who received sensory-integration-based occupational therapy services as children? And how has the sensory processing status of adults who received sensory-integration-based services changed since childhood? This study compared performance on sensory processing measures completed as children and as adults for a follow-up group of adults. The results revealed that the severity of sensory integration and processing challenges experienced by the follow-up group decreased from childhood, with 51% of the follow-up group now scoring in the "typical" range of sensory processing. Our findings suggest that those children with sensory integration and processing challenges who are recognized and seek occupational therapy services using an ASI approach are likely to have a good long-term prognosis regarding the severity of their sensory processing functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivia Easterbrooks-Dick
- Spiral Foundation, Newton, MA 02458, USA; (O.E.-D.); (A.T.)
- OTA The Koomar Center, Newton, MA 02458, USA
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Grigoryan GA. The systemic effects of the enriched environment on the conditioned fear reaction. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1227575. [PMID: 37674611 PMCID: PMC10477375 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1227575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, a hypothesis is proposed to explain the beneficial effect of an enriched environment (EE) on the conditioned fear reaction (CFR) from the perspective of a functional system of behavioral control. According to the hypothesis, the EE affects all behavioral act components, including the processing of sensory information, memory, motivational and reinforcing systems, and motor activities, which weakens the CFR. Animals raised in the EE have effects that are comparable to those of context (CTX) and CS pre-exposures at latent inhibition. An abundance of stimuli in the EE and constant contact with them provide the formation of CS-noUS and CTX-noUS connections that later, during CFR learning, slow down and diminish fear. The EE also contributes to faster processing of information and habituation to it. As a result, many stimuli in the context lose their significance, and subjects simply ignore them. And finally, the EE affects the motivational and reinforcing brain mechanisms, induces an impairment of search activity, and worsens memory consolidation, which leads to a reduction of CFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigory A. Grigoryan
- The Laboratory of Conditioned Reflexes and Physiology of Emotions, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Pérez-Chacón M, Borda-Mas M, Chacón A, Avargues-Navarro ML. Personality Traits and Coping Strategies as Psychological Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Highly Sensitive Persons. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20095644. [PMID: 37174164 PMCID: PMC10177969 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Sensory-Processing Sensitivity (SPS) is the reactivity to different stimuli that occurs in some people with sufficient intensity to cause interference in daily life. There are not many previous studies that determine the influence of adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies on health-related quality of life through indicators of mental (anxiety and depression) and physical (vitality) health and functioning in their lives in different contexts (emotional role functioning). In this sense, contexts that promote the use of successful stress-coping strategies are related to the presence of positive mental health outcomes. This study focuses on the analysis of indicators of health-related quality of life in people with SPS in relation to certain personality traits and coping strategies. Participants (N = 10,525) completed HSPS-S, NEO-FFI, CSI, and SF-36. Differences were observed between men and women. Differences indicated that women had higher SPS scores compared to men and poorer health-related quality of life. The results showed significant relationships with the three indicators of health-related quality of life. Finally, it is confirmed that neuroticism and the use of maladaptive coping strategies act as risk factors, whereas extraversion, conscientiousness, and adaptive coping strategies act as protective factors. These findings highlight the need to develop prevention programs for highly sensitive persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pérez-Chacón
- Spanish Association of Highly Sensitive Psychologists and Professionals, PAS España, 28080 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Borda-Mas
- Department of Personality, Assessment, and Psychological Treatment, University of Seville, 41018 Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Chacón
- Spanish Association of Highly Sensitive Psychologists and Professionals, PAS España, 28080 Madrid, Spain
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Kajdzik M, Moroń M. Signaling High Sensitivity to Influence Others: Initial Evidence for the Roles of Reinforcement Sensitivity, Sensory Processing Sensitivity, and the Dark Triad. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231152387. [PMID: 36645280 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231152387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Signaling high sensitivity to others may help individuals with heightened sensitivity to stimuli to craft their social relations to a preferred activation level ("assertive signaling of specific needs" hypothesis). Signaling sensitivity could be also a deceptive strategy helping to extract resources or obtain the desired treatment ("deceptive signaling" hypothesis). The study presents the construction of the measure of signaling high sensitivity to influence others and an initial test of both hypotheses. Two hundred and one participants ranging in age from 18 to 67 (M = 25.6; SD = 7.03) reported on their reinforcement sensitivity (behavioral approach and inhibition system), sensory processing sensitivity, and the Dark Triad. Signaling high sensitivity to influence others was weakly, but significantly, associated with behavioral inhibition system sensitivity, which was consistent with the "assertive signaling of specific needs" hypothesis. The behavioral approach system was positively correlated with signaling high sensitivity, which indicated that this influence strategy could be treated as an assertive self-presentational strategy helping in achieving social rewards for individuals with high reward responsiveness. Narcissism and psychopathy accounted for an additional amount of variance in signaling high sensitivity over and beyond reinforcement sensitivity. This was consistent with the "deceptive signaling" hypothesis. Signaling high sensitivity could be regarded as a strategy to achieve social goals using deception rather than as an expression of sensitive personality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Kajdzik
- Faculty of Social Sciences, 49568University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Marcin Moroń
- Institute of Psychology, 49568University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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May-Benson TA, Teasdale A, Easterbrooks-Dick O. Relationship Between Childhood Sensory Processing Differences and Quality of Life as Adults. Front Psychol 2022; 13:886833. [PMID: 35967700 PMCID: PMC9363864 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.886833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Research suggests a relationship between sensory processing, motor skills and quality of life (QOL) in a variety of clinical populations of adults and children. There have been no studies which investigated the relationship of childhood sensory processing and integration and related motor performance (sensori-motor) patterns identified using an Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) frame of reference and later QOL of those children as adults. This longitudinal follow-up study examined this relationship. Adult QOL was also examined in relation to current adult sensori-motor patterns. Fifty-three adults who received occupational therapy services as children, were identified as having sensori-motor difficulties at that time and completed a sensory history and a quality-of-life measure as adults participated. Measures included the OTA the Koomar Center Sensory History (SXHX), Adult/Adolescent Sensory History (ASH), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief (WHOQOL-BREF). MANCOVA found that Total childhood sensori-motor scores had a small relationship to Physical Health QOL as adults that approached significance. Pearson Correlations found that adults with childhood sensori-motor challenges who report sensori-motor challenges as adults had a moderate significant relationship among overall sensori-motor functioning and Physical Health (r = −0.56, p = 0.018). Visual (r = −0.76, p = 0.001), movement (vestibular; r = −0.48, p = 0.042) and tactile processing (r = −0.63, p = 0.008) had moderate to large significant relationships with Physical Health. Visual processing (r = −0.54, p = 0.024) was also significantly related to Psychological Health. Motor Coordination trended to significance for Physical Health (r = −0.42) and Psychological Health (r = −0.41). Conversely, adults who reported typical sensori-motor scores as adults, despite childhood sensori-motor challenges, had a good QOL. Furthermore, similar to previous research, there was a relationship between current visual, movement (vestibular) and tactile (touch) sensory processing and adult Physical and Psychological Health. A multivariate linear regression found Sensory Discrimination and Modulation accounted for one-quarter of the variance in QOL in adults with only Discrimination being statistically significant. Therefore, it is important to consider childhood sensori-motor function as well as adult functioning when examining QOL. Further, heretofore unexamined Sensory Discrimination was found to play a role in adult QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa A. May-Benson
- TMB Educational Enterprises, LLC, Norristown, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Teresa A. May-Benson,
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Baryła-Matejczuk M, Kata G, Poleszak W. Environmental sensitivity in young adolescents: The identification of sensitivity groups in a Polish sample. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271571. [PMID: 35862375 PMCID: PMC9302757 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The research described herein is based on the assumptions of the sensory processing sensitivity concept and the meta framework for the concept of environmental sensitivity. The adopted theoretical framework shows that individuals differ in their sensitivity to the environment, with some being more sensitive than others. From the evolutionary perspective, it has also been assumed that sensory processing sensitivity follows a normal distribution in the population, with a minority being exceptionally or highly sensitive to environmental stimuli. We explored data from a sample of 928 young adolescents in two studies. The tool used to evaluate their sensitivity was the Highly Sensitive Child Scale, which in studies 1 and 2 had a three-factor structure. Latent class analysis was used for the interpretation of the data of the studied groups. The obtained results indicate the existence of three groups which differ significantly from each other according to the HSC result. Based on the obtained results, it may be assumed that young adolescents are divided into three groups characterized by different sensitivities and their percentage distribution is not in agreement with the research conducted to date. The acquired information has both a theoretical value and a practical applicability, prompting reflection about the different aspects of the study, such as cultural differences, changes related to the development stage and the characteristics of the evaluation tool itself. From the perspective of possible applications, the obtained results may provide important information (1) to decision-makers who plan support or intervention programs at various levels of prevention, (2) for practitioners to provide them with the means with which to consider sensitivity as an important factor in coping with difficulties through diversified and adequate support (3) that is broadly applicable in the face of an environmental crisis (pandemic, the changing structure of class groups which is related to the number of refugees).
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Baryła-Matejczuk
- Institute of Psychology and Human Sciences, University of Economics and Innovation in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Grzegorz Kata
- Institute of Psychology and Human Sciences, University of Economics and Innovation in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wiesław Poleszak
- Institute of Psychology and Human Sciences, University of Economics and Innovation in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Ponce-Valencia A, Jiménez-Rodríguez D, Simonelli-Muñoz AJ, Gallego-Gómez JI, Castro-Luna G, Echevarría Pérez P. Adaptation of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSP) and Psychometric Properties of Reduced Versions of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (R-HSP Scale) in Spanish Nursing Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10050932. [PMID: 35628069 PMCID: PMC9140910 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10050932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) can be defined as a personality characteristic that includes the individual characteristics of sensitivity towards endogenous and exogenous stimuli. The differences in environmental sensitivity can play a crucial role in the academic context of health professionals, thus defining it as an area of research that must be addressed. The reduced scale for highly sensitive people (HSP) is a short (16 items) and adapted version of the original scale for highly sensitive people (HSP). This study aims to analyze the psychometric properties of reduced versions of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (r-HSP Scale) in Spanish nursing students. Once the questionnaire was translated, its psychometric characteristics were analyzed. The Spanish version of the r-HSP scale was administered to 284 university students enrolled in the Nursing Degree. The results from the factorial analysis confirmed the structure of sensitiveness of six factors in our sample. This structure included the following dimensions: (1) Instability, (2) Surroundings, (3) Interaction with others, (4) Sensoperception, (5) Sensitivity, and (6) Insecurity. Additionally, the Cronbach’s α values indicated that the Spanish version of the r-HSP scale had an adequate reliability (α = 0.702). The r-HSP scale is defined as a reliable, valid, and agile replica of the original structure of sensitivity in Spanish university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Ponce-Valencia
- Faculty of Nursing, Campus de los Jerónimos s/n, Catholic University of Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (J.I.G.-G.); (P.E.P.)
| | - Diana Jiménez-Rodríguez
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (A.J.S.-M.); (G.C.-L.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Juana Inés Gallego-Gómez
- Faculty of Nursing, Campus de los Jerónimos s/n, Catholic University of Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (J.I.G.-G.); (P.E.P.)
| | - Gracia Castro-Luna
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (A.J.S.-M.); (G.C.-L.)
| | - Paloma Echevarría Pérez
- Faculty of Nursing, Campus de los Jerónimos s/n, Catholic University of Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain; (A.P.-V.); (J.I.G.-G.); (P.E.P.)
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Costa-López B, Ruiz-Robledillo N, Albaladejo-Blázquez N, Baryła-Matejczuk M, Ferrer-Cascales R. Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Version of the Highly Sensitive Child Scale: The Parent Version. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053101. [PMID: 35270793 PMCID: PMC8910120 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Environmental sensitivity is the ability to perceive, register and process information about the environment, which differs among children and adolescents. The Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) scale has been used to assess environmental sensitivity in youngsters. The HSC scale is a short and 12-item adapted version of the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) scale. The aim of this pilot study is to transculturally adapt the Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) scale, and to analyze its factorial structure, reliability and validity. First, a transcultural adaptation was conducted by bilingual experts. Second, once the questionnaire was translated, the psychometric properties were analyzed. The Spanish version of the HSC scale was administered to parents answering about information of 141 children between 6 and 10 years old. The Spanish version of the Emotionality, Activity and Sociability Survey (EAS) was also applied. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the three-factor structure of sensitivity in our Spanish sample. This structure included the following dimensions: (1) Ease of Excitation (EOE), (2) Low Sensory Threshold (LST), and (3) Aesthetic Sensitivity (AES). Moreover, both Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s ω values indicated that the Spanish version of the HSC scale was a reliable measure of environmental sensitivity, as a general factor of sensitivity (α = 0.84), and even in its three dimensions: EOE (α = 0.86), LST (α = 0.77) and AES (α = 0.73). Finally, the correlations for convergent validity showed positive associations, especially among the three dimensions of SPS and Emotionality (EOE r = 0.351; LST r = 0.274; AES r = 0.259), which was one of the domains of the EAS survey. The pilot study provided interesting results, which showed a reliable and valid replication of the original structure of sensitivity in the Spanish samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borja Costa-López
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (B.C.-L.); (N.A.-B.)
| | - Nicolás Ruiz-Robledillo
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (B.C.-L.); (N.A.-B.)
- Correspondence: (N.R.-R.); (R.F.-C.)
| | | | - Monika Baryła-Matejczuk
- Institute of Psychology and Human Sciences, University of Economics and Innovation, 20-209 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Rosario Ferrer-Cascales
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (B.C.-L.); (N.A.-B.)
- Correspondence: (N.R.-R.); (R.F.-C.)
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Sensory Processing, Perceived Stress and Burnout Symptoms in a Working Population during the COVID-19 Crisis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042043. [PMID: 35206231 PMCID: PMC8871823 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Although previous research suggests an association between sensory processing and perceived stress in a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, it remains unclear whether this phenomenon occurs independently from psychopathology. The present study investigated the association between sensory processing patterns, perceived stress and occupational burnout as a stress-related condition in a working population. We focused on different aspects of sensory processing and used the momentum of a particularly stressful period: during the first months of the global COVID-19 crisis. A total of 116 workers at a mental healthcare institution in The Netherlands completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT). Our results demonstrated that higher scores on sensory sensitivity and low registration were associated with higher scores on perceived stress and core burnout symptoms. Sensory hypersensitivity was also associated with more secondary burnout symptoms. Associations were not driven by underlying sensory-related disorders (e.g., ASD or ADHD). In conclusion, sensory processing difficulties are relevant predictors of stress and occupational burnout, also in healthy employees. This phenomenon warrants further attention, as relatively simple adjustments in working environment may possess important preventive effects.
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Sensory Processing Phenotypes in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome and SYNGAP1-Related Intellectual Disability. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020137. [PMID: 35203901 PMCID: PMC8869824 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing differences are an established feature of both syndromic and non-syndromic Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Significant work has been carried out to characterize and classify specific sensory profiles in non-syndromic autism. However, it is not known if syndromic autism disorders, such as Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMD) or SYNGAP1-related Intellectual Disability (SYNGAP1-ID), have unique sensory phenotypes. Understanding the sensory features of these disorders is important for providing appropriate care and for understanding their underlying mechanisms. Our objective in this work was to determine the sensory processing abnormalities present in two syndromic ASDs: Phelan-McDermid Syndrome and SYNGAP1-related Intellectual Disability. Using a standardized instrument, the Short Sensory Profile-2, we characterized sensory features in 41 patients with PMD and 24 patients with SYNGAP1-ID, and sub-scores were then calculated for seeking, avoiding, sensitivity and registration, as well as overall sensory and behavior scores. We found both patient groups exhibited atypical sensory features, including high scores in the areas of avoiding and seeking. Thus, we discovered significant sensory processing abnormalities are common in these syndromic ASDs. Measurements of sensory processing could serve as useful clinical endpoints for trials of novel therapeutics for these populations.
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Experiences of Adults High in the Personality Trait Sensory Processing Sensitivity: A Qualitative Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10214912. [PMID: 34768431 PMCID: PMC8584340 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a personality trait reflecting inter-individual differences in sensitivity to negative and positive environmental information. Being high in SPS is associated with increased stress-related problems if environments are unfavourable but also appears to enhance one’s ability to benefit from health-promoting environments. In understanding SPS, therefore, lies the potential for innovating the ways we use to promote mental health. However, as a young research field, the core characteristics of SPS are yet debated. Qualitative research interviewing highly sensitive adults is important to conduct ecologically valid research connected with the complex realities of people. This study was the first to systematically report the perceptions and experiences of SPS characteristics in adults high in this trait. Semi-structured interviews (n = 26) were analysed thematically and described following consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. Six themes emerged: (1) emotional responding; (2) relatedness to others; (3) thinking; (4) overstimulation; (5) perceiving details; and (6) global SPS characteristics. With regards to coping with negative consequences of high SPS, the main themes were: (1) reducing sensory input and (2) psychological strategies. We gained fine-grained information on experiences of adults high in SPS and derived new hypotheses regarding the fostering of well-being related to high SPS.
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