Sensory under-responsiveness

When sensory signals don't reach the brain as strongly — appearing dreamy, slow to respond, or unaware of pain, hunger or temperature.

3 min read

What is sensory under-responsiveness?

Sensory under-responsiveness means a person may not notice sensory input as strongly as others. They may need stronger signals to notice what is happening in their body or environment.

What it can look like

Not noticing their name being called
Not noticing pain or temperature
Appearing dreamy or disconnected
Not realising they are hungry or thirsty
Not noticing dirty hands or face
Bumping into things
Seeking strong flavours
Not responding to danger quickly
Needing lots of movement to feel alert
Appearing tired or switched off
Struggling to know when they need the toilet

Under-responsiveness can be mistaken for ignoring, laziness or lack of care. In reality, the child may not be receiving or processing the sensory signal clearly.

More from Sensory

What are sensory needs?

Sensory needs are differences in how the brain receives and responds to input — not bad behaviour, but a nervous system trying to cope and find balance.

The 8 senses

Beyond the familiar five senses, there are three internal senses — vestibular, proprioception and interoception — that shape how we experience the world.

Sensory over-responsiveness

When everyday input feels too loud, too bright, too rough or too much — and how to respond with compassion.

Sensory seeking

Jumping, spinning, chewing, crashing — the body's way of looking for the input it needs to feel regulated.

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