Diverse Patterns of Autonomic Nervous System Response to Sensory Stimuli Among Children with Autism

Purpose of ReviewChildren with autism have been found to exhibit sensory modulation difficulties related to atypical autonomic nervous system responses to sensory stimuli. Most studies mainly differentiate their autonomic response to sensory stimuli from their typically developing peers. The patterns of autonomic response may provide a compelling explanation of the regulatory capabilities among these populations. The purpose of this review is to characterize the patterns of autonomic nervous response to sensory stimulation among children with autism.Recent FindingsThere is emerging evidence from the recent literature suggesting a diverse pattern of parasympathetic, sympathetic, and combined parasympathetic-sympathetic responses to sensory stimuli among children with autism, and even among their typically developing peers. Characterizing these patterns in light of the modes of autonomic control paints an interesting picture of the regulation abilities among these children.SummaryThere is a need to place focus on further understanding the diverse characteristics of autonomic nervous system response to sensory stimuli among children with autism. We recommend the use of combined parasympathetic-sympathetic measures interpreted in light of the modes of autonomic control and improved methodologies.