Is it Sensory? Is it Behavior?

As parents, we often find ourselves trying to understand our child’s behaviors, especially when they’re struggling or acting out. But how do we know if these behaviors are driven by a sensory need or are simply behavioral responses to their environment? Let’s explore the key differences between sensory responses and behavioral responses and provide you with tools to help distinguish between the two.

What Are Sensory Responses?

Sensory responses are reactions driven by the way your child’s brain interprets the sensory information around them. Children with sensory processing differences may experience their environment very differently from other kids. For example, a child might:

• Cover their ears at loud noises or when the room becomes too chaotic.

• Refuse certain foods because of their texture, taste, or smell.

• Seek out movement by constantly jumping, spinning, or swinging.

• Avoid touch or become upset when someone hugs them or brushes against them.

In these examples, the child's behavior is a response to how their brain is processing sensory input, not an attempt to misbehave or defy. It’s their way of managing the sensory overload or meeting a sensory need.

What Are Behavioral Responses?

Behavioral responses are actions that a child might use to communicate a need, express an emotion, or test boundaries. All children exhibit behavioral responses, such as:

• Testing limits by refusing to follow directions.

• Throwing a tantrum when they’re told "no."

• Acting out due to hunger, fatigue, or frustration.

Behavioral responses can be intentional or unintentional, but they are generally driven by a child’s attempt to communicate something (e.g., “I want attention,” “I don’t like this,” or “I’m feeling upset”) rather than a reaction to sensory input.

How to Tell the Difference: Questions to Ask

1. What happened right before the behavior?

   • Sensory response: Was there a loud noise, bright light, strong smell, or an unexpected touch? Sensory behaviors often have a clear trigger related to the environment.

   • Behavioral response: Was your child told “no” or asked to do something they didn’t want to do? Behavioral responses often follow a situation where the child is setting boundaries or expressing frustration.

2. What is your child trying to achieve?

   • Sensory response: The child is trying to regulate their sensory experience, such as calming themselves down or avoiding discomfort.

   • Behavioral response: The child is trying to get a desired outcome, like attention, an object, or avoiding a task.

3. Is the behavior consistent across environments?

   • Sensory response: If the behavior occurs across multiple settings (home, school, playground) when sensory input is similar (e.g., loud noise, bright lights), it’s likely sensory-related.

   • Behavioral response: If the behavior only happens in specific contexts (e.g., only at home or only when a certain caregiver is present), it might be related more to expectations and learned behaviors.

Example: Tantrum vs. Sensory Meltdown

Let’s look at an example. Imagine your child has a tantrum in the grocery store. Is it a sensory meltdown or a behavioral tantrum?

• Sensory Meltdown: Your child might cover their ears, cry, or try to run away when the store is loud and crowded. This meltdown could be their response to sensory overload—they’re overwhelmed by the noise, lights, or crowds and can’t self-regulate.

• Behavioral Tantrum: Your child may drop to the floor and cry when you tell them they can’t have candy. In this case, the tantrum is likely a behavioral response to being told "no," and they’re expressing their frustration in hopes of changing your mind.

How to Support Your Child

• For Sensory Responses: Help your child by reducing sensory triggers. Offer noise-canceling headphones, a quiet space, or sensory tools like fidget toys. Recognize that their behavior is not about misbehaving but about managing overwhelming input.

• For Behavioral Responses: Use consistent expectations, clear boundaries, and positive reinforcement. Help your child find appropriate ways to express their needs and emotions.

The Importance of Sensory Integration Therapy

If you’re finding it difficult to tell the difference or your child’s sensory responses are impacting daily life, consider seeking support from an occupational therapist specializing in sensory integration. Occupational therapists can help assess your child’s sensory needs, develop individualized strategies, and provide therapy to help them better process sensory information.

At Children in Motion, we provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for children with sensory processing challenges. Our therapists work closely with families to understand your child’s unique needs and help create a supportive environment for growth and development.

Resources:

1. Ayres, A. J. (2005). Sensory Integration and the Child: Understanding Hidden Sensory Challenges. Western Psychological Services.

2. Dunn, W. (2014). The Sensory Profile 2: User’s Manual. Pearson.

3. Miller, L. J. (2006). Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder. G.P. Putnam’s Sons.

4. Schaaf, R. C., & Mailloux, Z. (2015). Clinician’s Guide for Implementing Ayres Sensory Integration: Promoting Participation for Children with Autism. AOTA Press.

5. STAR Institute for Sensory Processing: https://www.spdstar.org

We hope this article helps you better understand the differences between sensory and behavioral responses. If you have concerns about your child’s sensory processing or behavior, please contact us to schedule an evaluation.