Publication:

Sensory profiling in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder aged 7-12 years from a tertiary care centre in South Kerala

Background Sensory processing abnormalities are increasingly recognized in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and may contribute to academic, behavioural, and social difficulties. This study assessed the prevalence, domain-specific sensory patterns, and associations with ADHD subtypes among children aged 7–12 years attending a tertiary care centre in South Kerala.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 56 children with DSM-5 diagnosed ADHD. Sensory processing was evaluated using the short sensory profile (SSP). ADHD subtypes were classified as inattentive (ADHD-I), hyperactive-impulsive (ADHD-HI), and combined (ADHD-C). Associations between sensory domains and ADHD subtypes were analyzed using Chi-square testing.

Results The majority were males (85.7%), and ADHD-C was the most common subtype (64.3%). Sensory processing abnormalities were present in 98.2% of participants. Tactile sensitivity (76.8% definite difference), vestibular/movement sensitivity (100% abnormal), and low energy/weak endurance (89.3%) were the most affected domains. Under-responsiveness/sensation-seeking behaviour was observed in 66.1%, while auditory filtering difficulties were present in 50%. Visual/auditory and taste/smell sensitivities were largely preserved. Vestibular sensitivity was the only sensory domain significantly associated with ADHD subtype (p=0.044), with greater dysfunction observed in the combined subtype.

Conclusions Sensory processing disorders are highly prevalent in children with ADHD, particularly involving tactile and vestibular domains. Routine sensory profiling may facilitate early identification of sensory challenges and support targeted interventions to improve functional outcomes.