Multisensory environments: are they therapeutic? A single‐subject evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of a multisensory environment

Abstract

This article reviews the current literature on multisensory therapy. Utilizing a single-subject quasi-experimental design, the therapeutic clinical effectiveness of multisensory therapy in promoting relaxation in a young man with learning disabilities is evaluated. Findings support the hypothesis that multisensory therapy can promote relaxation. It is concluded that multisensory environments are therapeutic, in that they can promote relaxation, and they may also have a place in the care of people with learning disabilities who display challenging behaviours.