The sensory processing patterns of individuals with schizophrenia with comorbid substance use disorder

Background The most common comorbidity in individuals with schizophrenia is substance use disorder. Sensory processing disorders seen in individuals with schizophrenia may cause substance use. This study aimed to examine the sensory processing patterns of individuals with schizophrenia with substance use disorder. Another aim of the study was to examine the relationship between the sensory patterns and the symptoms of schizophrenia. Methods The study included 62 patients with schizophrenia with substance use disorders and 57 patients with schizophrenia who didn't use substances. The sensory processing patterns of the participants were evaluated using the self- diagnostic Adolescent/ Adult Sensory Profile. The symptoms of schizophrenia of the participants were evaluated using the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale. Results Substance use groups' sensory processing patterns were significantly different from the schizophrenia without substance use (p < .001). Sensory variables didn't reveal a significant relationship with gender and substance use severity (p > .05). There was a correlation between sensory processing patterns of individuals with schizophrenia with substance use and positive symptoms (p < .05). Conclusions Further investigation of the factors causing sensory processing disorders caused by substance use in schizophrenia patients will help occupational therapists devise intervention strategies in the treatment of factors causing substance use.