What’s the Difference Between Sensory Processing Differences and SPD in Autism?

PostedDecember 15, 2025

UpdatedDecember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Understanding the distinction between SPD vs sensory differences in autism is essential for clarifying how sensory challenges impact autistic individuals. While both terms describe how people process sensory information, they refer to different experiences, and recognising the difference can help with diagnosis and support.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a clinical diagnosis that refers to a condition where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to sensory input in a typical way. People with SPD often experience heightened or diminished responses to sensory stimuli, leading to significant challenges in daily life. This can affect their ability to process sounds, textures, or visual stimuli, leading to distress or difficulty functioning.

On the other hand, sensory differences in autism are often a characteristic of autism but are not a disorder in themselves. Many individuals on the autism spectrum experience sensory sensitivities or sensory seeking behaviours, but these differences are not necessarily pathologised. They can be part of the broader autism comparison of traits that vary widely from person to person.

SPD vs Sensory Differences in Autism: Key Differences

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between SPD vs sensory differences in autism:

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

SPD is an officially recognised condition that can affect any child or adult, regardless of whether they have autism. It involves significant disruptions to everyday functioning due to sensory difficulties.

Sensory Differences in Autism

Sensory processing differences in autism refer to the way the brain processes sensory input as part of autism, but these differences are not always considered a disorder. They are a feature of the neurodiverse experience, with varying degrees of impact.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for expert guidance on understanding SPD vs sensory differences in autism and how best to support individuals with sensory needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and 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 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.