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Development of an Adult Sensory Processing Scale (ASPS)
Erna Imperatore Blanche1, Diane Parham2, Megan Chang3
1Erna Imperatore Blanche, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Occupational Science and Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar Street, CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA 90089; blanche@osot.usc.edu.
The Adult Sensory Processing Scale (ASPS) is a new questionnaire to measure sensory processing differences in adults. It identifies eight distinct sensory patterns, aiding in understanding individual responses.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Occupational Therapy
Background:
- Sensory processing differences can impact adult functioning.
- A validated tool is needed to assess these differences in adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the Adult Sensory Processing Scale (ASPS) for adults.
- To identify key sensory processing patterns in the adult population.
Main Methods:
- Two-phase development: item generation and instrument construction.
- Expert ratings for content validity (71 items).
- Online survey (491 adults) with exploratory factor and Rasch analyses.
Main Results:
- The final ASPS includes 39 items.
- Eight factors identified: vestibular overresponsiveness, auditory overresponsiveness, visual overresponsiveness, social tactile overresponsiveness, proprioceptive seeking, general underresponsiveness, vestibular--proprioceptive underresponsiveness affecting postural control, and vestibular overresponsiveness--intolerance to movement.
- Demonstrated acceptable internal consistency, strong content validity, and adequate construct validity.
Conclusions:
- The ASPS is a valid and reliable measure for assessing sensory processing in adults.
- The scale captures individual differences across eight distinct sensory processing patterns.
- ASPS can aid in clinical assessment and research on adult sensory processing.
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