Can Autism Be Misdiagnosed as Sensory Processing Disorder?

PostedNovember 13, 2025

UpdatedNovember 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, autism vs sensory processing is a common diagnostic crossroads, especially in early childhood. While both can present with strong responses to sound, touch, or movement, autism includes broader features involving communication and social development. If these are overlooked, the result can be a misdiagnosis.

Sensory integration challenges, which include difficulty filtering or responding to input like textures or noise appear in both conditions. However, autism also affects how children share attention, engage socially, and cope with change. These distinctions matter. A child who avoids bright light may have sensory processing disorder (SPD), autism, or both but understanding the full picture is essential.

Overlapping Traits

Here’s where professionals must look beyond surface-level behaviour:

Early signs:

Delayed speech, limited eye contact, or a lack of pretend play are often present in autism, but not sensory processing disorder (SPD). These developmental clues may emerge subtly and be mistaken for shyness or sensitivity.

Behavioural cues:

Repetitive actions like rocking or hand-flapping may serve as coping tools. In autism, they also relate to routine and predictability, not just sensory soothing.

Correct diagnosis hinges on comprehensive evaluation, not just sensory checklists. Missing autism can delay access to key therapies and support systems.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations that explore the whole neurodevelopmental profile, not just sensory symptoms.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to misdiagnosis and differential diagnosis.

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.