Exploring sensory integrative dysfunction in process schizophrenia

Schroeder-Block-Campbell Adult Psychiatric Sensory Integration Evaluation: Concurrent Validity and Clinical Utility

One hundred thirteen psychiatric patients and 31 normal subjects who were evaluated with the Schroeder-Block-Campbell (SBC) Adult Psychiatric Sensory Integration Evaluation differed significantly in their scores on the Physical Assessment, Abnormal Movements, and Childhood History subscales. Sex and inpatient status were not found to be significantly related to Physical Assessment and Abnormal Movements scores; DSM-III diagnosis, age, and treatment with antipsychotic medication were significantly related to these scores Exploratory cutoff scores differentiated psychiatric subjects in general and schizophrenic subjects in particular from normal subjects at a level well above chance. The implications of these findings for using the SBC as a clinical and research tool are discussed It is argued that the SBC provides a reliable, valid, standardized tool for assessment, treatment monitoring treatment evaluation, and research.

Sensorimotor Integration Therapy for Hip Fracture and CVA Patients

A rehabilitation program, having as its central component a sensorimotor integration procedure, was applied to 36 geriatric patients after hip fracture or CVA. The sensorimotor integration was gradually carried out in a developmental sequence from a lying down position to a fully erect position. Results were preliminarily evaluated by pre- and post- treatment figure drawings, and by ADL ratings. Significant changes were obtained in both measures. Qualitative changes in figure drawings point to specific effects of the sensorimotor integration therapy. A detailed theoretical rationale is provided for the implementation of SI therapy with patients suffering from CVA or hip fracture.

Systematic review of sensory integration therapy for individuals with disabilities: Single case design studies

Sensory integration therapy (SIT) is a controversial intervention that is widely used for people with disabilities. Systematic analysis was conducted on the outcomes of 17 single case design studies on sensory integration therapy for people with, or at-risk of, a developmental or learning disability, disorder or delay. An assessment of the quality of methodology of the studies found most used weak designs and poor methodology, with a tendency for higher quality studies to produce negative results. Based on limited comparative evidence, functional analysis-based interventions for challenging behavior were more effective that SIT. Overall the studies do not provide convincing evidence for the efficacy of sensory integration therapy. Given the findings of the present review and other recent analyses it is advised that the use of SIT be limited to experimental contexts. Issues with the studies and possible improvements for future research are discussed including the need to employ designs that allow for adequate demonstration of experimental control.

Schizophrenia as a self-disorder due to perceptual incoherence

The aim of this review is to describe the potential relationship between multisensory disintegration and self-disorders in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Sensory processing impairments affecting multisensory integration have been demonstrated in schizophrenia. From a developmental perspective multisensory integration is considered to be crucial for normal self-experience. An impairment of multisensory integration is called 'perceptual incoherence'. We theorize that perceptual incoherence may evoke incoherent self-experiences including depersonalization, ambivalence, diminished sense of agency, and 'loosening of associations' between thoughts, feelings and actions that lie within the framework of 'self-disorders' as described by Sass and Parnas (2003). We postulate that subconscious attempts to restore perceptual coherence may induce hallucinations and delusions. Increased insight into mechanisms underlying 'self-disorders' may enhance our understanding of schizophrenia, improve recognition of early psychosis, and extend the range of therapeutic possibilities.

The Assessment and Treatment of Sensory Defensiveness in Adult Mental Health: A Literature Review

The aim of this literature review was to explore the nature of the relationship between sensory defensiveness and mental health problems. The bibliographical database Dialog DataStar and various online resources were searched. Six papers were selected, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were analysed by identifying and discussing the common themes that emerged.

The literature indicated that sensory defensiveness can have a detrimental effect on quality of life experiences. It can have an impact on functional abilities, behaviour, emotions and mental health. The coping strategies that people develop to deal with sensory defensiveness add to the negative impact on their quality of life.

From the limited literature available, it was found that the treatment of sensory defensiveness delivered positive results. This review highlights the importance of recognising and treating sensory defensiveness. It also highlights the lack of literature available in this area. The implications for occupational therapy practice include further extensive research to improve knowledge and experience in the assessment and treatment of sensory defensiveness in mental health settings.