Common Symptoms Of Sensory Processing Disorder

Strong Preferences Or Aversions To Certain Textures

Tactile sensitivity can result in strong preferences or aversions to certain textures. This sensitivity can cause problems in many areas of daily life including eating, dressing, and personal hygiene. The same individual may have strong preferences for one texture and a strong aversion to others. Strong preferences or aversions to certain textures can result in a limited diet. A child with tactile sensitivity may be inaccurately labeled a picky eater. Foods with crunchy, chewy, or creamy textures can be either highly intolerable or desirable for a person with sensory processing disorder.

Certain fabrics or tags in clothing can make dressing difficult for someone with SPD if they are easily irritated by certain tactile sensations. They may find it impossible to wear wool or other coarse fabrics. Long sleeves or full-length pants can also be uncomfortable for some individuals. Personal hygiene can be another problem area concerning tactile sensitivity. The textures of water, toothpaste, and some soaps may cause distress in some patients, and others may find these textures soothing.