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What Is Sensory Seeking?

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Summary

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Sensory seeking is when a person enjoys getting a lot of information from their environment through their senses, like loud noises or strong smells. It can be helpful for some people to focus their attention and regulate their emotions, but for others, it can interfere with their daily life. Understanding and respecting an individual’s sensory preferences and needs are essential.

Frequently Asked Question

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Is sensory seeking a disorder?

Sensory-seeking behavior is not a disorder, but it can be a symptom of certain conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or sensory processing disorder.

How can you support someone who is sensory seeking?

To support someone who is sensory seeking, it’s important to understand and respect their sensory preferences and needs. You can provide opportunities for sensory input through activities like music, art, and movement, and provide sensory tools like fidget toys or weighted blankets.

When does sensory seeking become a problem?

Sensory seeking can become a problem when it interferes with a person’s daily life, such as making it difficult to focus in school or causing disruptions in social situations. If sensory seeking behaviors are causing problems, it may be helpful to work with a healthcare provider or therapist to develop strategies for managing them.

Scientific Definition

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Sensory seeking is a behavior where a person likes to get sensory information from their environment. They may like loud noises, bright colors, and strong smells. People who are sensory seeking may enjoy activities like jumping, spinning, or bouncing. They might also enjoy touching different textures or tasting new foods. Sensory seeking is a natural behavior, and many people have different levels of sensitivity to sensory input. For some people, sensory seeking can be helpful for them to regulate their emotions and focus their attention. However, some people may have more extreme sensory-seeking behavior, which can interfere with daily life. There are many ways to support sensory-seeking individuals, including providing opportunities for sensory input through activities like music, art, and movement. Understanding and respecting an individual’s sensory preferences and needs are essential.

Video Explanation

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Real World Example of Sensory Seeking

Meet Susie, a curious and energetic child who loves exploring the world around her. Here’s a story that illustrates how sensory seeking can be a part of her everyday life:

  • Bright colors: Susie’s eyes light up as she enters a room filled with vibrant paintings and colorful toys.
  • Loud noises: She giggles with delight as she listens to the sound of crashing waves at the beach or the cheerful melody of her favorite song.
  • Textures: Susie eagerly runs her fingers through a sandbox, feeling the soft grains of sand slip through her hands.
  • Physical activities: Jumping on her trampoline or spinning in circles makes Susie feel exhilarated and helps her focus her attention.
  • New foods: Susie bravely tries different foods, delighting in the varied textures and tastes she discovers.

Through her sensory seeking, Susie explores the world with excitement and curiosity. Her parents support her by providing sensory-rich activities and understanding her unique preferences.

What Does Sensory Seeking Work?

Sensory seeking involves actively seeking sensory experiences and can manifest in various ways. Here are some examples and explanations:

  • Seeking stimulation: Sensory seekers actively seek out sensory stimulation to fulfill their sensory needs.
  • Loud noises: They may enjoy loud music, banging on drums, or other activities that provide auditory stimulation.
  • Bright colors: Sensory seekers are attracted to vibrant and intense colors that stimulate their visual senses.
  • Strong smells: They may seek out strong scents, such as perfumes or spices, to engage their sense of smell.
  • Physical activities: Sensory seekers often engage in activities like jumping on trampolines, spinning in chairs, or bouncing on exercise balls to satisfy their need for movement and proprioceptive input.
  • Exploring textures: They enjoy touching various textures, such as sand, slime, or fabrics, to experience tactile sensations.
  • Trying new foods: Sensory seekers may be adventurous eaters, seeking out new tastes, textures, and flavors.

Understanding these examples can help parents provide appropriate activities and support for sensory seekers. Goally, our tablet, supports sensory-seeking kids with visual schedules, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills through apps and videos.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 15, 2023. It was updated on July 20, 2023.