Tactile discrimination disorder affects one’s ability to detect or respond to touch, temperature, or pressure. It is one of the eight subtypes of Sensory Discrimination Disorder (SDD) and one of many manifestations of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Learn more about SPD and its subtypes here.
See below for some ways to identify and support discrimination challenges.
Those with Tactile Discrimination Disorder May:
- Not notice when they’re being touched.
- Be unable to gauge the temperature of food and drinks.
- Have difficulty identifying or distinguishing objects by feel.
- Tend to play too rough and accidentally injure themselves or others.
- Have difficulty recognizing and respecting others’ personal boundaries.
- Have a high pain threshold and might not notice minor injuries.
- Use too much pressure when writing or playing and frequently break pencils or toys.
- Have difficulty performing certain motor tasks, such as getting dressed or riding a bike.
How to Support Auditory Discrimination Disorders:
- Encourage safe, low-contact outdoor games, such as racing, tag, or tug-of-war.
- Experiment with weighted pencils and practice writing on different kinds of paper or textured surfaces, such as tissue paper, chalkboards, or marker boards.
- Play games to practice identifying common and related objects by feel. Place common household items in a “mystery bag” and have your child reach in and name the items without looking.
- Practice dressing, tying shoes, and performing other motor tasks in front of a mirror. Print out a visual step-by-step guide for your child to reference.
Keep in mind that no two children are exactly alike, and most people exhibit both seeking and avoiding behaviors from time to time. If you think your child might be suffering from sensory processing issues, you should seek a professional assessment. The STAR Institute’s Treatment Directory is a great resource that can help you find therapists, doctors, and community resources in your area.