Sensitivities in Autism

Sensitivity can be defined as a higher (than “normal”/average) degree of being sensitive to something.

When we hear about sensitivities in connection autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs), the first impression that springs to mind is hypersensitivity to sounds, sights, smell, touch, and so on.

However, the special abilities of autistic individuals to sense the environment are not limited to hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli. Autistic sensitivities can be (roughly) grouped into four categories:

1. Sensory sensitivities
2. Cognitive sensitivities
3. Emotional Sensitivities
4. Spiritual sensitivities

These have all been discussed in designated literatures. The links are provided below.