Food selectivity and sensory sensitivity in children with autism spectrum disorders

By S. Cermak, C. Curtin, L. Bandini. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 2010

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Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise a complex set of related developmental disorders that are characterized by impairments in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. Impairments in sensory processing are also extremely common. The prevalence of ASDs is increasing and is currently estimated to affect 1 in 150 children. ASDs are considered to be a major health and educational problem, affecting many areas of daily living, including eating. Children with ASDs are often described as picky or selective eaters. This paper provides a comprehensive narrative review of the empirical literature over the last 25 years on food selectivity and nutritional adequacy in children with ASDs. The possible contributions of sensory factors, such as sensory sensitivity, to food selectivity are discussed. The need for an interdisciplinary approach to managing atypical eating patterns in children with ASD is highlighted.

Subfields: Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Mental health

View Paper: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/c1efedd213699326ad6ccc1b9a013c82414a1ed4