SENSORY PROCESSING AND SENSORY MODULATION DIFFICULTIES: IMPLICATIONS FOR OCCUPATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Sensory processing refers to the neurological mechanisms by which sensory information from the environment and the body is received, organized, and interpreted to support adaptive behavior (Ayres, 1972). Sensory modulation, an essential part of the process of sensory processing, involves the ability to regulate the reaction to the sensation in accordance with the demands of the situation (Dunn, 1997). Sensory processing and modulation difficulties could impact occupational performance in a significant way at various stages of life, during self-care, productivity, play, education, and participation in various activities around the health of the individual (Miller et al., 2007). This chapter deals with an in-depth analysis of the process of sensory processing, the concept of sensory modulation, the theory associated with these issues, the pattern of sensory modulation, and the way these modulations impact functionality as a result of the associated challenges in the context of the daily occupation of people with related health issues around the brain and mental health (Schaaf and Mailloux, 2015).