ASD ASD Sensory Processing and Regulation

Question 1

DSM-5 includes sensory processing differences under which criterion for ASD diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Criterion B: Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities

Answer

Criterion A: Social communication and interaction

Answer

A separate criterion added in DSM-5-TR

Answer

Sensory differences are not included in DSM-5 criteria

Question 2

Sensory hypersensitivity (over-responsivity) in ASD is BEST described as:

Accepted Answer

An exaggerated or aversive response to sensory stimuli that most people find tolerable

Answer

Seeking out intense sensory stimulation to feel calm

Answer

An inability to detect any sensory input

Answer

A preference for neutral sensory environments only

Question 3

Sensory seeking behaviors in individuals with ASD (e.g., spinning, hand flapping, seeking deep pressure) are understood to serve which function?

Accepted Answer

Neurological self-regulation to modulate arousal levels and achieve sensory equilibrium

Answer

Deliberate attention-seeking behavior to manipulate caregivers

Answer

A sign of intellectual disability co-occurring with ASD

Answer

Random stereotyped motor behaviors with no functional purpose

Question 4

Occupational therapists (OTs) addressing sensory processing in ASD most commonly use which intervention framework?

Accepted Answer

Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) therapy

Answer

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Answer

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Answer

Verbal Behavior therapy

Question 5

A sensory diet in the context of ASD intervention refers to:

Accepted Answer

An individualized schedule of sensory activities designed to meet a person's sensory needs throughout the day

Answer

A special dietary protocol eliminating gluten and casein

Answer

A nutritional plan developed by a dietitian for children with food selectivity

Answer

A medication regimen for sensory-related anxiety

Question 6

Interoception, a sensory processing area increasingly recognized as important in ASD, refers to the sense of:

Accepted Answer

Internal body states such as hunger, thirst, heartbeat, and pain

Answer

Balance and spatial orientation (vestibular sense)

Answer

Light touch and deep pressure on the skin (tactile sense)

Answer

Movement and body position in space (proprioception)