Can Sensory Sensitivities Help Distinguish Between ADHD and ASD? 

ADHD and ASD sensory sensitivities are common, but the nature and intensity of these sensitivities differ significantly between the two conditions. Understanding these sensory differences can help clinicians distinguish between ADHD and ASD, leading to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. 

ADHD vs ASD Sensory Sensitivities 

In ADHD, sensory sensitivity often manifests as discomfort or distraction from external stimuli, such as bright lights, loud noises, or tactile sensations. Children with ADHD may struggle to filter out background noises or visual distractions, making it difficult for them to focus on tasks. However, these sensitivities are typically linked to attention and impulsivity, rather than a deeper sensory processing disorder. Sensory overload in ADHD is often fleeting and results from difficulties with self-regulation or attention, rather than a heightened or persistent sensitivity to sensory input. 

In contrast, individuals with ASD often experience much more pronounced and consistent sensory sensitivities. They may be hypersensitive to certain stimuli, such as specific textures, sounds, or lights, or they may have hyposensitivity, meaning they might not react to stimuli that would normally cause discomfort. These sensory sensitivities are a core feature of ASD, often linked to difficulties in sensory processing, and can lead to sensory overload that causes anxiety, meltdowns, or withdrawal from social situations. 

In conclusion, both ADHD and ASD sensory sensitivities are there, the intensity and nature of these sensitivities differ. ADHD sensory differences are typically related to attention and self-regulation, while ASD sensory sensitivities are often more persistent and tied to sensory processing issues. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.