The relationship between sensory sensitivity and eating problems in children with autism spectrum disorder

Karaca B. D., Durcan G., Sandıkçı T., Cokugras H., Doğangün B.

RESEARCH IN AUTISM, cilt.127, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 127
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.reia.2025.202684
  • Dergi Adı: RESEARCH IN AUTISM
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
  • İstanbul Üniversitesi-Cerrahpaşa Adresli: Evet

Özet

Nutritional issues in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be linked to sensory sensitivity. This study aims to explore the relationship between nutritional habits and sensory sensitivity in children with ASD. The sample included 127 children with ASD and 84 healthy children of similar age and gender. Dunn Sensory Profile (DSP), and Brief Autism Meal Behavior Inventory (BAMBI) were completed by all parents. Results showed that the ASD group had lower sensory profile subscale scores compared to the control group, while all BAMBI subscale scores were significantly higher in the ASD group. Linear regression analysis indicated that vestibular and oral sensory sensitivities were associated with eating problems. These findings suggest that eating problems in ASD may stem from sensory processing issues. In conclusion, our findings highlight the importance of including vestibular screening and intervention in eating problems for children with ASD.