Impact of High-Sensory Issues on Attention: Understanding the Negative Effects

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sensory issues and Attention ability. It also determined the direction of the relationship between sensory domains and Attention. Attention is essential in understanding and comprehending any task. The existence of sensory issues may affect the child's attention negatively. The higher the sensory issues, the more it affects the child’s ability to concentrate on relevant stimuli, making it difficult to learn and behave properly. The study was quantitative and a survey method was applied. Data from 86 children were collected through a purposive sampling technique. A self-developed Sensory Dysfunction Inventory (DSI) was applied to assess the children’s sensory issues and an Attention checklist to measure their Attention abilities. Correlation and Linear Regression were applied to see the relationship between sensory dysfunction domains and Attention. Results of the study reported that sensory issues and attention are negatively correlated. The presence of sensory problems may negatively affect the child’s ability to concentrate. The application of a multisensory approach can be useful in overcoming sensory issues and improving attention.