Sensory Sensitivity

Heightened or reduced responses to sensory input including sounds, lights, textures, tastes, and smells. Sensory sensitivity is common among autistic people, with approximately 74% experiencing atypical sensory processing. Hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) may cause distress from stimuli others find neutral, such as background noise or flickering lights. Hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) may lead to seeking intense sensory input. In digital accessibility, sensory sensitivities inform design choices like offering adjustable brightness, volume controls, options to disable animations or flashing content, and alternatives to auditory-only feedback.