A Systematic Review of Sensory-Based Autism Subtypes

Abstract Background Children with autism often present with a myriad of possible sensory processing deficits. Sensory-based subtypes have been proposed as a means to better understand the unique sensory qualities in this clinical population. The purpose of this systematic review is to synthesize information about sensory-based subtypes that have been reported in the literature for children with autism. Methods PRISMA guidelines informed this review process. Included articles were published in the last 12 years, specific to children with autism between the ages of 2–18 years old. Of the 33 articles meeting eligibility for full-text review, 8 matched the final inclusion criteria. Results Findings indicate that sensory-based subtypes in children with autism were developed using primarily parent-report instruments that assess differences in sensory responsivity. Several different subtyping schemes were presented, suggesting between three to five subtypes as an appropriate fit to encompass the different patterns of sensory responsivity seen in children with autism. Several studies suggest that a subgroup of this population has typical sensory functioning, and a subgroup exists with significant, global sensory differences. Mixed results were found for those children who fall in between, who have specific versus global differences in responsivity (i.e., hyper- or hyporesponsivity or sensory seeking), or within specific sensory domains. Conclusion The literature consists of a small number of descriptive studies with little consensus on subtypes. Initial findings indicate that service providers may be able to consider variable presentations of sensory processing differences in their approach to treatment and intervention planning, but further research is indicated.