Survey of Behavioral Problems and Sensory Processing in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Objectives: All individuals need to have the ability of appropriate sensory processing&nbsp;for proper functioning in the environment and participation in daily activities. Moreover,&nbsp;behavioral functions can be affected by sensory processing problems. This study aimed to&nbsp;determine the relationship between behavioral problems and sensory processing in 7 to 10&nbsp;years old children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Methods: This descriptive (cross-sectional) study included 60 children with ADHD aged 7 to&nbsp;10 years, who were referred to a comprehensive psychiatric center. Short Sensory Profile (SSP)&nbsp;and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) questionnaires were used for assessing the patterns of&nbsp;sensory processing and behavioral problems in the patients. Results: There was a negative correlation between internalizing behavioral problems&nbsp;(r=&minus;0.426) and externalizing behavioral problems (r=&minus;0.465), and the total score of sensory&nbsp;processing in ADHD children (P<0.05). Discussion: The findings of this study showed that some behaviors in children with ADHD&nbsp;could be due to certain defects in their sensory processing.