Sensoryseeking

Sensory seeking is a pattern of sensory processing characterized by a preference for intense or varied sensory input in order to regulate arousal, focus, or emotion. It is described in several theories of sensory processing and is considered one dimension within broader profiles used by clinicians to understand how individuals respond to tactile, proprioceptive, vestibular, auditory, and visual stimuli.

People who are sensory seeking may display behaviors such as seeking vigorous movement, loud or fast sounds, rough play, biting or mouthing, frequent touching, spinning, or seeking heavy compression. These behaviors may be adaptive responses to under-responsive sensory systems or to heightened environmental demands and can be observed across developmental contexts, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental or sensory processing differences.

Assessment is typically conducted by occupational therapists or related professionals through clinical observation and standardized measures such as sensory processing questionnaires or observation checklists. Differentiating sensory seeking from other behaviors requires consideration of context, safety, and the individual's functioning across activities of daily living.

Management focuses on providing appropriate, safe sensory input and reducing triggering factors. Concepts such as a sensory diet, environmental modifications, and structured routines can help channel seeking behaviors toward productive activities. Gentle, heavy work, proprioceptive input, vestibular activities, and predictable sensory experiences are commonly used to support regulation.

See also sensory processing disorder, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, occupational therapy.