Sensory vs. Behavior

What is sensory?

Sensory: in relation to sensation or the physical senses; transmitted or perceived by the senses

What is behavior?

Behavior: how one conducts oneself; way that a person responds to stimuli or situations

Is it Sensory or is it Behavior?

Both Sensory and Behavior can occur in similar ways and, as the above definitions show, both impact the way we react to stimuli. If Sensory is how we take in stimuli and Behavior is how we react to stimuli, aren't they one and the same? Sensory and Behavior are linked and overlap. When a child has negative behaviors, there can be a variety of reasons why. Each behavior has a function. One of those reasons is sensory. A way to help remember the functions of behavior is SEAT.

S-sensory

Sensory occurs when the child can't control or modulate the input they receive from the 8 senses. This can lead to behavior that is often viewed as "unacceptable" or "bad". These behaviors are often ways of attempting to regulate the sensory system and usually "feels good" to the child.

What to do: use strategies, tools, or activities to help your child get the needed input

Example: If your child is chewing on something they are not supposed to, give them gum as a functional replacement

E-escape

Escape occurs when the child wants to escape or get out of any undesired task, interaction, or situation. This can happen if the task is too easy or too hard. It can also happen if the child is bored or scared. Or maybe they just plain don't want to do it. When this happens, the child will have behaviors that will help them escape or avoid the stimulus.

What to do: use First-Then, give choices, compromise on the length or location

Example: If your child starts to rip up their homework, ask them if they need a break before finishing

A-attention

Attention occurs when the child wants access to people or interactions/reactions. This is like "look at me!". Sometimes the child isn't able to communicate this want for social interaction so they will behave in ways that will get them this attention that they are craving.

What to do: provide positive reinforcement/attention BEFORE the behavior

Example: If you child is screaming in the store, give them praise and attention when they have a quiet and appropriate voice

T-tangible

Tangible is something you can have or touch. This is usually a preferred item or activity. When the child's favorite things are not available, they may have behaviors that will help them get what they want. A good example of this is wanting a candy bar in line at the store and having a tantrum because they can't have it.

What to do: use First-Then, wait, don't give in

Example: If your child wants to use the IPad, use First-do the dishes, Then-you can have the IPad

Deciding if your child has sensory processing difficulties, behavior issues, or both is no easy task. There is a reason professionals go through the schooling and training that they do. Working with an OT as well as an ABA therapist will help your child participate in life to the best of their abilities while managing whatever difficulties they may have.

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