engleski

Sensory Integration Dysfunction and ADHD – Gender Differences?

Sensory integration is a neurobiological activity within our bodies. It is the brains and nervous system’s ability to organize sensory stimuli in an organized and integrated manner. The brain uses those sensations to form perceptions, behaviors and learning (Ayers, 1979.). Unorganized sensory input results with difficulties in perceiving and learning. Additionally, ADHD is one of the most common disorders in childhood. The child with ADHD suffers from a variety of behavioral, emotional and attention difficulties, which often result with significant learning problems. It has been established that the boys with ADHD also have SI dysfunction in several sensory areas (Jocić et al. 2003). According to Really et al., 2006., there is a gender specific difference in children with ADHD. This difference can be mostly observed in presenting symptoms among boys or girls. Boys tend to be more hyperactive, oppositional, aggressive, and show more externalizing behaviors in general. Conversely, girls demonstrate more internalizing symptoms, such as inattention, depressive tendencies and low confidence (Really et al., 2006.). The sample presented in this study consists of 10 girls and 10 boys, aged 7-13 years. Each of these children was diagnosed with ADHD. In order to assess SI dysfunction, Sensory Integration Dysfunction Test (Viola, S., G., 2002.) was used, and the data were statistically analyzed. The aim of this research was to examine possible gender differences in areas affected by sensory integration dysfunction in children with ADHD. The results will serve as a valuable tool in creating and improving rehabilitation and education of children with ADHD.

Sensory integration dysfunction ; attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder ; gender

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