Sensory Processing Disorder
Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team
Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board
Last updated: June 2026
Key Takeaways
- Sensory Processing Disorder is broadly categorized into three main types: Sensory Modulation Disorder, Sensory Discrimination Disorder, and Sensory-Based Motor Disorder, each affecting how the brain processes sensory information differently.
- Sensory Modulation Disorder involves difficulty regulating sensory input, which can show up as over-responsiveness (hypersensitivity), under-responsiveness (hyposensitivity), or sensory-seeking behaviors.
- Sensory Discrimination Disorder makes it hard to interpret sensory information accurately, affecting the ability to distinguish textures, sounds, or spatial orientation and impacting tasks like handwriting, balance, and body awareness.
- Sensory-Based Motor Disorder includes two subtypes, postural disorder and dyspraxia, and affects coordination, balance, and motor planning, often showing up as clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks.
- Although SPD and autism share some sensory symptoms, they are distinct conditions, and SPD types can also present differently in adults than in children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three main types of sensory processing disorder?
The three main types are Sensory Modulation Disorder, Sensory Discrimination Disorder, and Sensory-Based Motor Disorder. Each affects how the brain processes sensory information, leading to different symptoms and challenges.
What does it mean if my child is sensory seeking?
Sensory seeking is one of the patterns that can occur with Sensory Modulation Disorder, where a child constantly seeks sensory input such as tactile stimulation. It falls under difficulty regulating sensory input, which can also include over-responsiveness or under-responsiveness.
Why does my child struggle with handwriting and balance?
Trouble with handwriting, balance, and body awareness can be linked to Sensory Discrimination Disorder, which involves difficulty interpreting sensory information accurately. A child may struggle to distinguish between textures, sounds, or spatial orientation.
Is my child's clumsiness a sign of a sensory problem?
Clumsiness, difficulty with fine motor tasks, and challenges in sports can be signs of Sensory-Based Motor Disorder, which affects coordination, balance, and motor planning. It includes two subtypes: postural disorder and dyspraxia, and is often supported with occupational therapy.
Is sensory processing disorder the same as autism?
No. While SPD and autism share some sensory symptoms, they are distinct conditions with different sensory profiles, which matters for diagnosis and treatment.
Can adults have sensory processing disorder?
Yes. SPD types can present differently in adults than in children, and sensory modulation, discrimination, and motor disorders can manifest in adult life, including workplace and social challenges.
