About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a common lifelong condition affecting 1 in 100 people. ASD affects how a person relates to others and the world around them. Difficulty responding to sensory information (noise, touch, movement, taste, sight) is common in ASD. This might include feeling overwhelmed or distressed by loud or constant low level noise e.g. in the classroom. Affected children may also show little or no response to these sensory cues. These 'sensory processing difficulties' are associated with behaviour and socialisation problems and affect education, relationships and participation in daily life.
About Sensory Integration Therapy
Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) is a type of face-to-face therapy or treatment provided by trained occupational therapists. The therapist uses play based sensory motor activities to influence the way the child responds to sensation, reducing distress and improving consentration and interaction with others. Research suggests SIT might be helpful for some children.
The SenITA study
In this study we are interested in whether, compared to treatment normally offered to families (which we call 'usual care'), SIT can help with behaviour and daily functioning. We are looking to recruit 216 children aged between 4 and 11 years old who have ASD and sensory processing difficulties and who are in mainstream education.