When we talk about sensory processing, we’re really talking about how people experience the world through their senses. One of the biggest ways these differences show up is in how sensitive someone is to sensory input. Some people are hypersensitive, meaning they notice things intensely and can get overwhelmed quickly. Others are hyposensitive, meaning they don’t pick up on input as easily and may crave more stimulation.
For some, everyday sights, sounds, textures, or movements feel comfortable and easy to manage. For others, those same experiences can feel way too strong, hardly noticeable, or somewhere in between. These differences aren’t “good” or “bad” — they’re just part of how each person’s brain and body work.
On top of that, people often develop patterns of being sensory seekers (looking for more input) or sensory avoiders (trying to reduce input). Understanding these patterns makes it easier to see why people react the way they do in daily life — whether that’s covering their ears at a loud sound, chewing on a pen for focus, or avoiding certain foods.
Sensory Processing Differences
Many people are a mix of these below. For example, someone might avoid loud noises but seek out movement like swinging or running. It’s not “one or the other” — everyone has their own unique sensory profile. Still, it’s worth exploring the main aspects of each!
1. Hypersensitivity (Over-Responsive)
This is when the brain reacts too strongly to sensory input. It’s like the volume knob is turned up too high, and ordinary sensations feel overwhelming. Things that most people hardly notice can cause stress, discomfort, or even meltdowns.
Here are a few examples of hypersensitivity:
- A child covers their ears at the sound of a vacuum cleaner or hand dryer because it feels painfully loud.
- Bright lights in a classroom make it hard for someone to focus, almost like a spotlight is shining in their eyes.
- A scratchy tag on a shirt can be unbearable, making the person refuse to wear certain clothes.
2. Hyposensitivity (Under-Responsive)
This is when the brain doesn’t pick up on sensory input as strongly. It’s like the volume knob is turned too low, so the person needs more input to notice or feel it. They might miss important cues or appear “distracted” when really their brain just isn’t getting enough sensory information.
Here are a few examples of hyposensitivity:
- A student doesn’t notice their name being called until it’s repeated several times.
- Someone might not realize their hands are dirty, their clothes are wet, or they have a bruise until someone points it out.
- They may seem clumsy, bumping into things because their body isn’t getting enough signals about where it is in space.
Sensory Seeking vs. Sensory Avoiding
These are the behaviors people use to manage their sensory needs. In other words, when the brain and body feel out of balance, people naturally find ways to either get more of the input they’re craving or avoid the input that feels overwhelming. These behaviors aren’t random or “bad habits” — they’re actually smart strategies the nervous system uses to cope, even if they sometimes look unusual to others.
Please keep in mind that these behaviors can happen at any age, and they show up in school, at work, at home, and in social settings. Once you recognize them as part of sensory processing, it becomes easier to understand what someone is really trying to do: regulate their body and find a sense of balance.
Sensory Seeking: Looking for more input to feel “just right”
- A child spins on a chair repeatedly or jumps on the couch to get movement.
- Someone chews gum, taps their pencil, or listens to loud music to stay focused.
- Kids might touch everything in a store or hug tightly because their body craves pressure and feedback.
Sensory Avoiding: Trying to reduce or escape overwhelming input
- A person wears noise-canceling headphones in crowded places.
- Someone avoids foods with certain textures (like mushy or crunchy).
- A child may withdraw from group activities because the noise and movement feel like “too much.”
Tips for Managing Hyper and Hyposensitivity
Sensory behaviors are the ways people manage their sensory needs. When the brain and body feel out of balance, people naturally find ways to either get more of the input they crave or reduce the input that feels overwhelming. These behaviors aren’t random or “bad habits”; they’re smart strategies the nervous system uses to cope.
For Sensory Seekers (craving more input)
For someone who is seeking sensory input, movement can be a way to regulate. A child might jump on the couch, spin in circles, or fidget with their hands, not simply out of playfulness, but to give their body the motion it needs to feel calm and focused. Fidget tools, stress balls, or textured toys can provide a similar outlet, while activities like carrying heavy objects or helping with chores can give deep pressure that is grounding. Having a safe space to move and explore can help them get the input they need without feeling restricted.
Specific examples:
- Movement breaks: Allow jumping, spinning, stretching, or short walks during the day.
- Fidget tools: Stress balls, textured toys, or pencil grips can give input while keeping hands busy.
- Heavy work activities: Carrying books, pushing chairs, or helping with chores provides deep pressure that can be calming.
- Safe spaces for activity: A designated “active corner” at home or school can help them get the input they need without disrupting others.
For Sensory Avoiders (trying to reduce input)
On the other hand, someone who is avoiding sensory input may need ways to reduce stimulation. They might cover their ears, wear headphones, or retreat to a quiet space when sounds or crowds feel overwhelming. Adjusting clothing to be soft and tag-free or introducing new textures gradually can make daily life more comfortable. Creating calm, low-stimulation areas allows them to recharge and regain balance when sensory input becomes too much.
Specific examples:
- Quiet zones: Give access to calm, low-stimulation areas to help them recharge.
- Noise management: Headphones, earplugs, or soft music can reduce overwhelming sounds.
- Clothing and texture adjustments: Allow soft, tagless clothing or let them avoid textures that feel uncomfortable.
- Gradual exposure: When necessary, slowly introducing new sensory experiences can help them feel more comfortable without triggering stress.
For Sensory Seekers (craving more input)
Supporting these behaviors is all about observing without judgment and offering choices. Paying attention to what triggers discomfort or excitement, and noticing what helps the person feel regulated, is more helpful than forcing them to conform to what feels “normal.” Consistency in routines can reduce stress, and celebrating the strengths that often accompany sensory differences — like a keen sense of touch, sound, or movement — can build confidence.
General Tips
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Observe, don’t judge: Watch what triggers discomfort or excitement, and notice what helps them feel regulated.
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Offer choices: Let the person decide which strategies work best for them.
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Consistency helps: Predictable routines can reduce stress for people with sensory sensitivities.
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Celebrate strengths: Many sensory-seeking or avoiding behaviors are linked to unique talents — like a keen sense of touch, sound, or movement — so recognizing these can boost confidence.