Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder and its Misdiagnosis

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Often when one thinks of mental illness, the imagery of crazy people who act belligerently and have deranged thoughts comes to mind. However, under most circumstances psychological disorders are not that dramatic or clear-cut. Sensory processing disorder is one of those disorders. According to The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation (2015), Sensory processing refers to the method in which the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. The successful completion of any activity such as eating ice cream or walking requires the brain to process sensation (SPD Foundation, 2015). Sensory Processing Disorder or SPD is a disorder in which sensory signals are not correctly organized by the brain causing faulty responses. Leading occupational therapist, neurologist and pioneer SPD researcher, A. Jean Ayres, referred to this condition as a “neurological traffic jam” that prevents sections of the brain from receiving the needed information to process and interpret sensory information appropriately (Star Center, 2012). Though SDP can occur in adults, it is most prevalent in children. A study conducted by the Sensory Processing Disorder Scientific Work Group states that 1 in every 6 children experiences some form of SPD symptoms that can significantly impact basic functions, such as, eating and social interactions (Ben-Sasson et al, 2009). Another study conducted by Ahn et al (2004) suggests at least 1 in 20 children’s lives are affected by SPD (2004). As a result, they often suffer from a multitude of social/emotional issues. Anxiety, depression, aggression, or other behavioral problems can follow. Based on a summary of research into the causation of SPD in Sensational K... ... middle of paper ... ...h an initial diagnosis that seem appropriate at the time but does not consider other reasonable possibilities (Isabel Healthcare, 2005). This ultimately is a factor of time, or lack thereof. Many doctors are strapped for time, typically spend 10 to 30 minutes or less with each patient (NCBI, 1999). This is not because they do not care, but because there simply are not enough hours in a day to meet demand for in-depth meetings with each patient. In Ontario psychologists charge an hourly rate of $225 per hour as recommended by the Ontario Psychological Association (2015). Everyone does not have health insurance and thus cannot afford to book multiple appointments with a psychologist for $225 per hour. As a result a rushed diagnosis may be reached by mental health providers as the lack the time needed to have a precise diagnosis, thus leading to the misdiagnosis of SPD.

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