Cosbey et. al (2010) found that the children with Sensory Processing Disorder and the typically developing children in their study reported generally similar response patterns among completion of the Children’s Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment. However, the typically developing children reported significantly more diverse social networks than the children with SPD for social activities. Additionally, the children with SPD reported greater enjoyment of skill-based and recreational activities than the typically developing children.  

Social Participation in children with sensory modulation challenges 

The Test of Playfulness (ToP) measures playfulness in children. Each score reflects extent (proportion of time), intensity (degree), or skillfulness (ease of performance) relative to specific behaviors representing intrinsic motivation, internal control, freedom from unnecessary constraints of reality, or framing. Bundy et al. (2007) tested 20 children with SPD and 20 typically developing children using the ToP and found that the mean ToP scores of the children who were typically developing were significantly higher than those of the children with SPD. However,  they found that both groups were relatively playful.

Performance on ToP for children with SPD versus typically developing children 

- social participation
- play
- engagement in home and school routines

Lawrence University

- overresponsivity
- underresponsivity
- sensory craving

Sensory Modulation Challenges

Schoen, S.A., Miller, L.J., & Sullivan, J.C. (2014). Measurement in sensory modulation: The sensory processing scale assessment. American Journal of Occupational Therapy 68(5), 522-530. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2014.012377

Sensory modulation reference

Overwhelm and stress in response to a sensory experience; a more intense response to sensory input; magnified, negative responses to typical sensory experiences in everyday life. 

Overresponsivity/Hyperreactivity to sensory input

Under-responsivity to sensory input; Diminished or delayed responses to daily sensory stimuli. A person who is hyporeactive to sensory input is more likely to not register or attend to certain stimuli in their environment. 

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