Understanding Touch Sensitivity in Autism: A Deep Dive
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Chapter 1: The Complexity of Touch Sensitivity
Sensory challenges in autism can manifest in various ways, and one of the less frequently discussed aspects is the sense of touch. This sensation can significantly affect our experiences.
I have always navigated a complicated relationship with tactile sensations. While I strongly dislike being touched by unfamiliar individuals or those I don't like, I find myself rubbing my clothing or various surfaces as a form of self-soothing.
Interestingly, I may inflict cuts or bruises on myself without realizing it until I notice the marks later, yet a poorly positioned seam on my sock can be incredibly bothersome. A recent study highlights that the sensory experience of touch in autistic individuals is quite intricate!
This aligns perfectly with my own experiences. The research reveals seemingly contradictory responses among autistic individuals regarding touch sensitivity. While our overall sensitivity to touch may be lower, we tend to exhibit heightened reactions—both positive and negative—when we do perceive tactile stimuli. This aligns with my personal encounters.
It has long been recognized that many autistic individuals have specific preferences regarding their clothing, often struggling with labels or certain fabrics. Personally, I don't feel particularly restricted in this area, but once I find clothing that feels right, I tend to buy multiples and wear them almost like a uniform!
My sensitivity to touch is especially pronounced when it comes to food. I have an aversion to most types of cheese and pasta, primarily due to their textures rather than their flavors. After all, pasta has a mild taste, yet I can enjoy lasagna, where the sheets don’t bother me. Similarly, cheese is acceptable on a pizza or burger, where the melting alters its texture. However, the thought of biting into a chunk of cheddar is still quite unappealing!
When I’m out, I enjoy feeling different surfaces and have a particular attraction to smooth, shiny materials. As a child, I had a favorite blanket with satin edges that I loved to caress. My parents even saved the satin portion for me when the blanket became too worn!
In our increasingly digital world, the sense of touch is likely one of the senses that is less frequently stimulated. For instance, when I opt for grocery delivery, I miss the tactile experience of selecting ripe produce.
I wonder how our tactile experiences will change as this trend progresses. Nonetheless, this new research gives me a sense of validation; I’m not alone in my experience of being oblivious to a cut on my arm while being overly sensitive to a wrinkle in my bedsheets!
I embrace my identity as a walking contradiction of autism!
This video, titled "Autism ACTUALLY Speaking: All Or Nothing Thinking," explores the intricacies of thought patterns in autism, including the challenges of black-and-white thinking.