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Updated: Sep 20, 2025
09:13
Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
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Relationships between autistic traits, taste preference, taste perception, and eating behaviour
Na Chen1, Katsumi Watanabe2, Tatsu Kobayakawa3
1Department of Rehabilitation for Brain Functions, Research Institute of National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities, Tokorozawa, Japan.
Summary
Autistic traits influence eating behaviors in the general population. Higher autistic traits correlate with selective eating, taste preferences, and sensory sensitivities, offering insights into dietary challenges.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Sensory Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by atypical taste perception and eating behaviors.
- Limited research exists on how autistic traits impact eating behaviors in the general population.
- Understanding these links is crucial for addressing selective eating and sensory sensitivities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between autistic traits, taste preferences, and eating behaviors.
- To investigate how sensory perceptions (texture, flavor) relate to autistic traits and food choices.
- To examine the correlation between selective eating and specific taste preferences (sour, aftertaste).
Main Methods:
- An online questionnaire survey was administered to the Japanese population.
- Data collected included measures of autistic traits, taste preferences, taste perceptions, and eating behaviors.
- Statistical analyses were used to identify significant relationships between these variables.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between autistic traits and eating behaviors.
- Individuals with higher autistic traits exhibited more selective eating behaviors, including heightened sensitivity to food texture and mixed flavors.
- Selective eating behaviors were positively correlated with a preference for sour tastes and increased sensitivity to aftertastes.
Conclusions:
- Autistic traits significantly influence eating behaviors, taste perceptions, and taste preferences.
- The findings suggest a complex interplay between sensory processing, autistic traits, and food choices.
- This research provides a foundation for developing interventions to manage selective eating issues, particularly in individuals with autism.
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