Tag

Sensory Processing

All articles tagged with #sensory processing

Early screen time tied to ADHD and autism traits in toddlers
lifestyle1 month ago

Early screen time tied to ADHD and autism traits in toddlers

New studies from Drexel University and the University of Fukui link early screen exposure in babies and toddlers to atypical sensory behaviors by about 33 months, with increased risk for ADHD and autism traits. Findings show that even an extra hour of daily screen time at 18–24 months raises odds of sensory-seeking, sensory-avoidance, and low registration, and researchers urge screen-time reduction and sensory-processing guidance, alongside pediatric recommendations to limit digital media for very young children.

Sound World: Chronic Back Pain Amplifies Everyday Noises, Reversable with Brain-Based Therapy
science1 month ago

Sound World: Chronic Back Pain Amplifies Everyday Noises, Reversable with Brain-Based Therapy

New fMRI study shows chronic back pain heightens the brain’s response to ordinary sounds, with stronger activity in the auditory cortex and insula and less regulation by the medial prefrontal cortex; 142 patients vs 51 controls reacted more intensely than 84% of controls. A randomized trial found Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) best reduced this sensory amplification and normalized brain activity, supporting the idea that chronic pain is a whole-brain issue that can be treated with brain-based therapies.

Adult brains sharpen perception through late-stage TRN remodeling
scienceneuroscience1 month ago

Adult brains sharpen perception through late-stage TRN remodeling

New research shows the brain’s thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) continues to mature from adolescence into adulthood, upgrading its sensory gate to support high‑resolution perception. Driven by the LRRTM3 protein, this proactive circuit remodeling isn’t just learning—it’s a molecular-level hardware redesign that improves discrimination and reduces background noise. The finding has implications for ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia and could guide new therapies aimed at enhancing sensory and cognitive function in adults.

Sensitive Infants Sleep Shallowly: Deep Sleep Less Restorative in Highly Sensitive Babies
science1 month ago

Sensitive Infants Sleep Shallowly: Deep Sleep Less Restorative in Highly Sensitive Babies

A University of East Anglia study using brainwave monitoring shows eight- to eleven-month-old infants with high sensory sensitivity spend similar amounts of time in deep sleep as peers, but their deep sleep is shallower with weaker slow waves, making it less restorative; while noise worsens sleep disruption, these babies remain lighter sleepers even in quiet environments, suggesting an intrinsic sensory wiring difference that could relate to autism traits and early brain development.

"Study Uncovers Intricate Touch Sensitivity in Autism"
health1 year ago

"Study Uncovers Intricate Touch Sensitivity in Autism"

A new study in Autism Research reveals that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have lower physiological responses to touch but report higher ratings for both pleasant and unpleasant touch sensations compared to typically developing individuals. This highlights a complex relationship between subjective experience and physiological response in people with ASD, which may impact their social interactions and quality of life. The study underscores the need for further research to better understand sensory processing in ASD and its implications for diagnosis and therapy.

Early Brain Patterns Linked to Autism Risk in Infants
health1 year ago

Early Brain Patterns Linked to Autism Risk in Infants

Scientists have identified distinct brain connectivity patterns in 6-week-old infants at high risk for autism, offering insights into early neurological development and supporting the potential for early interventions. The study found that infants with a higher likelihood of developing autism showed stronger connections between the Salience Network and sensory processing regions, which predicted their behavior at 12 months. This research supports the theory that sensory processing differences may precede social and communication symptoms in autism.

"The Hidden Benefits of Blinking: How It Boosts Vision"
neuroscience2 years ago

"The Hidden Benefits of Blinking: How It Boosts Vision"

A study from the University of Rochester reveals that blinking plays a critical role in visual perception by reshaping how visual information is processed, contrary to the common belief that it only helps keep the eyes moist. The research indicates that blinks are an active part of how we see, enhancing our ability to perceive the overall 'big picture' by modulating visual input to the retina and creating different luminance signals that aid in processing visual scenes. This challenges the traditional view of visual perception as a mostly passive process and suggests that vision, like other senses, involves a combination of sensory input and motor activity.

"Optogenetics Study Unveils Touch's Influence on Time Perception"
neuroscience2 years ago

"Optogenetics Study Unveils Touch's Influence on Time Perception"

A groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications reveals a link between the sense of touch and time perception, demonstrating the crucial role of the somatosensory cortex in how we perceive the duration of tactile experiences. Utilizing optogenetics, researchers found that increasing neuronal activity in this brain region led to altered perceptions of both intensity and duration of tactile stimuli in rats. The study challenges the traditional view of time perception and suggests an integrated approach to understanding sensory experiences, while also providing a theoretical framework for linking neural processes to subjective experiences.

Study: Screen Time Under 2 Linked to Sensory Differences in Toddlers
health2 years ago

Study: Screen Time Under 2 Linked to Sensory Differences in Toddlers

A new study from Drexel University suggests that allowing very young children to have screen time could lead to sensory challenges later in childhood, with findings showing an association between greater screen time in the first two years of life and atypical sensory behaviors. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children under 2 to video chats with family members, and for older children, capping it at two hours per day. The study's lead author emphasized the importance of reducing screen time and increasing socially engaging activities for young children, particularly those experiencing symptoms associated with atypical sensory processing.

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Sensory Processing Differences, Experts Warn"
health2 years ago

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Sensory Processing Differences, Experts Warn"

A new study suggests that screen time for children under 2 years old is associated with sensory processing differences in toddlerhood, with children who watched television or DVDs at 12 months being twice as likely to experience atypical sensory processing by 36 months. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against screen time for children under 2, experts caution against concluding that screen time itself leads to sensory differences, emphasizing the importance of considering family environments and individual circumstances. The study highlights the need for a holistic approach to addressing screen time and promoting healthy developmental activities for young children.

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Atypical Sensory Processing: Experts Warn of Alarming Study Findings"
health2 years ago

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Atypical Sensory Processing: Experts Warn of Alarming Study Findings"

A new study suggests that children under 2 who watch television or DVDs may be more likely to experience sensory processing differences in toddlerhood, such as challenges in processing sensory input. The research, which analyzed caregiver surveys, found that each additional hour of screen exposure after 18 months was associated with a 20% increased likelihood of sensory processing differences. While experts caution against concluding that screen time itself leads to these differences, they recommend a holistic approach to identifying barriers to decreasing screen time and promoting healthy developmental activities for young children.

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Atypical Sensory Processing and Abnormal Behavior in Toddlers: Study"
health2 years ago

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Atypical Sensory Processing and Abnormal Behavior in Toddlers: Study"

A new study suggests that children under 2 who watch television or DVDs may be more likely to experience sensory processing differences in toddlerhood, such as challenges in processing sensory input. The research, which analyzed caregiver surveys, found that each additional hour of screen exposure after 18 months was associated with a 20% increased likelihood of sensory processing differences. While experts caution against concluding that screen time itself leads to these differences, they recommend a holistic approach to identifying barriers to decreasing screen time and promoting healthy developmental activities for young children.

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Unusual Sensory Problems"
health2 years ago

"Screen Time in Early Childhood Linked to Unusual Sensory Problems"

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics suggests a concerning link between early screen exposure and atypical sensory processing in children. The research found that higher screen time at 12, 18, and 24 months was associated with altered sensory processing patterns, potentially impacting children's learning and daily functioning. The study adds to growing evidence that excessive screen time in early childhood may contribute to developmental challenges, particularly in sensory processing, and could have implications for conditions like ADHD and autism. While the study highlights the need for parent education and awareness, its observational nature and reliance on caregiver reports present limitations, calling for further research to understand the mechanisms behind this association.