Exploring and Understanding Neurodiverse Sensory Experiences and Management Through Digital Intervention

Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Authors: Radhika JoglekarGail Hopkins

Abstract: Sensory processing and regulation have garnered particular focus by professionals when recommending interventions to help neurodivergent individuals. However, little research has been done into the extent that neurodiverse individuals (the general population) understand sensory management, specifically: sensory seeking; sensory avoiding; and the concept of sensory diets, despite the potential value of this to their wellbeing. This study used a mixed-methods approach to explore sensory awareness and preferences in adult respondents and to understand their sensory experiences, including sensory triggers and their management of these. The overall aim of this study was to understand whether and how a mobile application could be designed to build a user’s awareness of their own sensory needs through sensory self-assessment; and recommend a personalised sensory diet to support their sensory regulation.Twenty-seven people completed a survey asking about their understanding of sensory processing and management. Survey data highlighted a lack of participant awareness of vestibular, proprioceptive and interoceptive senses; and the use of sensory diets to help manage sensory processing and maintain an optimal sensory experience. Findings informed the design of a low-fidelity app for further evaluation. Qualitative interviews were then conducted with 14 people. The purpose of these were two-fold: to gain richer data on individuals’ sensory perceptions and experiences; and to evaluate the concept of the sensory awareness prototype. Data from the interviews were thematically analysed and affinity mapping was used to analyse the prototype concept testing, capturing participants’ views on the potential usefulness of the app. Analysis of interview data highlighted how participant experiences consisted of sensory preferences – innate or learned inclinations toward specific sensory stimuli – and sensory triggers; stimuli that cause a strong response within the individual. Behavioural responses to preferences and triggers were categorised as seeking, avoiding, or employing no structured strategy. Seeking and avoiding behaviours were classified as either a premeditated strategy to prevent stress or a coping mechanism to try and alleviate stress. The selection of these depended upon environmental opportunities or on the intensity/impact of a trigger. Participant descriptions included instances of a cycle of sensory response, leading to physical response, leading to emotional response and a consequential reduction in sensory tolerance which further impacted physical wellbeing. In cases where no proactive strategy was in place, individuals often relied on instinctive “fight or flight” reactions.A high-fidelity prototype app, “SenseHarmony”, was developed which incorporated sensory screening and mood-logging features and provided sensory diet recommendations. This was tested with a further five participants through task-based usability analysis and interviews. This evaluation suggested that digital tools can be of value as an educational resource and to help equip people with a better awareness of, and strategies for, managing their own sensory needs. Through this study, we have sought to highlight how individuals interact with and manage their day-to-day sensory experiences and the potential benefits of a mobile app to enable this. We suggest that a tool to help individuals predict and manage their sensory responses can promote a shift from coping mechanisms to strategies, and support wellbeing.

Keywords: Sensory Experiences, Neurodiversity, Sensory Regulation, App Design, Digital Intervention, Sensory Diet

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006696

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