Verarbeitungsstörung

Verarbeitungsstörung, often translated as processing disorder or sensory processing disorder (SPD), refers to a neurological condition where the brain has difficulty receiving, organizing, and responding to information that comes in through the senses. This can affect one or more sensory systems, including sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, movement (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception). Individuals with Verarbeitungsstörung may experience sensory input too intensely (hypersensitivity) or not intensely enough (hyposensitivity).

For example, a child with hypersensitivity to sound might become distressed by everyday noises like a vacuum cleaner or a hand dryer. Conversely, a child with hyposensitivity might seek out intense sensory experiences, such as crashing into things or spinning repeatedly. These sensory challenges can impact a person's daily life, affecting their ability to learn, socialize, and perform everyday tasks. It can manifest in difficulties with motor skills, attention, emotional regulation, and adaptive behaviors.

Verarbeitungsstörung is not currently recognized as a distinct diagnosis in major diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5, but it is widely discussed and treated within occupational therapy and other therapeutic disciplines. Therapies often focus on helping individuals develop coping strategies and engage in sensory-based activities to improve their ability to process and respond to sensory information. The underlying causes are not fully understood, but it is believed to have a neurological basis.