Sensory processing and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

• Author / Creator

  Abele-Webster, Lynne

• Although sensory processing abnormalities and attention deficits are both used in the diagnosis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), their relationship has not previously been explored in children with FASD. A very low correlation between sensory processing, measured by the total and section scores of the Short Sensory Profile, and attention deficit hyperactivity behaviours, measured by the ADHD index of the Conners’ Parent Rating Scales – Revised: Long Version, in 26 children with FASD was found retrospectively. These measures may distinguish attention deficit hyperactivity behaviours and sensory processing problems in children with FASD. Short Sensory Profile total scores indicated sensory processing problems for 81% of the children, similar to other studies of children with FASD. Auditory filtering and under-responsive/seeks sensation sections of the Short Sensory Profile indicated sensory processing problems for 73% and 88% of the children respectively. Sensory processing problems need to be considered when planning interventions.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Perception
  • Fetal alcohol syndrome--Diagnosis
  • Sensory integration dysfunction in children
  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

• Graduation date

  Fall 2010

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Science

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3170K

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.