Sensory Processing and Occupational Choices

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: The impact of sensory processing dysfunctions on occupational choices and quality of life has previously been described (Fanchiang, 1996; Kinnealy, Koenig & Smith, 2011). However, the influence on sensory processing characteristics on occupational choices among the typical population has not been thoroughly studied. The purpose of this study was to understand the connections between the experiential characteristics of occupations identified as pleasurable and preferred occupations and sensory processing characteristics in typical adults utilizing two pre-existing questionnaires: Daily Occupational Experience Survey (revised) (DOESr) and the Adult Sensory Processing Scale (ASPS). Previous analysis of the DOESr focuses on the experiential characteristics of preferred occupations, yielded five factors: Restoration, Mastery, Ludos/Adventure, Heighten Awareness, and Creativity. Analysis of the ASPS, a self-reported assessment tool targeting sensory processing and arousal, resulted in 11 factors associated to over-and under-responsiveness to specific sensory experiences (Blanche, Parham, Chang, & Mallinson, 2014).

METHODS: The DOESr and the ASPS were uploaded to Qualtrics for data collection, and the survey link was distributed to potential participants aged between 18-64 years. Convenient and snowball sampling were used. The DOESr required the participants to select a preferred and pleasurable activity and respond to 31 questions describing the experiential characteristics of the occupation. They were also asked to answer the ASPS about their sensory processing preferences. Cluster analysis was used to understand the links between occupational choices and sensory processing.

RESULTS: There were 451 eligible participants who completed both questionnaires. The results from cluster analysis revealed six clusters, similar to the five factors previously identified in the DOESr. The six clusters were: creative/no relationship to sensory processing, planned/under responsivity to touch, relaxed or restorative/over responsive to touch and high arousal level, and three clusters representing the choice of high intensity activities in combination to different sensory systems. Although all clusters included some sensory characteristics, some of them were more clearly linked to sensory processing.

IMPLICATIONS TO OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY: This study establishes links between experiential characteristics of chosen occupations and personal characteristics including sensory processing. Understanding the motivations leading to occupational choices will help interveners assist their consumers.

DISCUSSION: Although the link between choice of occupation and sensory processing has been theorized, this is the first study that used statistical analysis with a large number of typical participants to establish associations between occupational choices and sensory processing preferences. Future studies could further explore the experimental characteristics as related to sensory processing by gender, age, culture, and personality.

CONCLUSION: Occupational choices are influenced by many factors, one of them is sensory processing. The present study sheds light to the link between occupational choices and sensory processing characteristics among typical adults.

References

Blanche, E. I., Parham, D., Chang, M., & Mallinson, T. (2014). Development of an Adult Sensory Processing Scale (ASPS). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(5), 531-538.

Fanchiang, S. P. C. (1996). The other side of the coin: Growing up with a learning disability. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 50(4), 277-285.

Kinnealy, M., Koening, K.P., and Smith, S. (2011). Relationships between sensory modulation and social supports and health-related quality of life. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 65(3), 320-327. doi:10.5014/ajot.2011.001370

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