Exploration of the Use of Sensory Diets in Occupational Therapy

Authors

Allison Hunt, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Morganne Peterson, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow
Emily White, Dominican University of CaliforniaFollow

Files

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to fill the gap in literature and further examine the use of sensory diets in the field of occupational therapy. This study investigated the use of sensory diets among California occupational therapy practitioners. A mixed-methods design was used to collect data through a SurveyMonkey survey. The survey was sent out to members of the Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC) and received 98 respondents within one month. Participants worked among various clinical settings and implemented sensory diets with various client populations. Practitioners reported using terms such as “sensory strategies,” “sensory tools,” and “sensory supports” which indicates an overall misunderstanding associated with the term “sensory diet.” An alternative name that is more easily understandable and used universally would help decrease confusion among clinicians and clients. Further research is needed to better understand the effectiveness of sensory diets and how they are implemented.

Department

Occupational Therapy

Faculty Advisor

Julia Wilbarger, Ph.D., OTR/L

Publication Date

Fall 2017

Sponsorship/Conference/Institution

Department of Occupational Therapy, Dominican University of California

City

San Rafael, CA

Keywords

sensory integration, sensory based intervention, self regulation, sensory processing, home program

Disciplines

Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Curriculum and Instruction | Elementary Education | Health and Physical Education | Movement and Mind-Body Therapies | Music Therapy | Occupational Therapy | School Psychology | Special Education and Teaching