CAS Sensory Processing & Integration Competency Flashcards

Which sensory processing pattern is most commonly observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Answer: A combination of hyper- and hypo-responsiveness across different sensory domains

Individuals with ASD often display a mixed profile of both hyper- and hypo-responsiveness that varies across sensory systems and contexts.

What term describes a decreased or absent response to sensory stimuli in individuals with ASD?

Answer: Hypo-responsiveness

Hypo-responsiveness refers to reduced or absent behavioral reactions to sensory input that would typically elicit a response.

Which intervention framework specifically addresses sensory processing differences through structured sensory activities and environments?

Answer: Sensory Integration Therapy (SI)

Sensory Integration Therapy, developed by A. Jean Ayres, uses meaningful sensory-motor activities to improve sensory processing and adaptive responses.

A child with ASD covers their ears frequently in the cafeteria. This behavior most likely reflects:

Answer: Auditory hyper-responsiveness

Covering ears in response to loud or complex sound environments is a classic sign of auditory hyper-responsiveness, indicating over-sensitivity to sound.

Which sensory system provides information about body position, muscle tension, and joint movement?

Answer: Proprioceptive

The proprioceptive system processes sensory input from muscles and joints, giving the brain information about body position and movement.

What is the term for self-stimulatory repetitive sensory behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking) observed in many individuals with ASD?

Answer: Stimming

'Stimming' (self-stimulation) refers to repetitive sensory behaviors that individuals with ASD use to self-regulate or gain sensory input.