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Sensory Processing Disorders and Emotional Distress Among Young Children Exposed to Traumatic Events
Lihi Liberman1, Efrat Harel2, Yafit Gilboa3
1Lihi Liberman, PhD, OT/L, is Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Occupational Therapy, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; lihi.liberman@gmail.com.
Summary
Young children exposed to trauma after the October 7, 2023, terror attack showed significant emotional distress and sensory processing difficulties. These challenges, particularly sensory sensitivity and avoidance, were strongly correlated, highlighting the impact of early childhood trauma.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Occupational Therapy
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Sensory processing disorders are frequently observed in children with a history of trauma or maltreatment.
- Collective terror attacks can profoundly impact young children's emotional well-being and sensory regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between sensory processing patterns and emotional distress in young children exposed to traumatic events following a terror attack.
- To understand the specific sensory processing challenges and emotional responses in children affected by the October 7, 2023, terror attack.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed with purposive sampling.
- Thirty-seven children aged 2-7 years, residing in the Gaza envelope and directly affected by the terror attack, participated.
- Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Pediatric Emotional Distress Scale (PEDS), and the Sensory Profile 2.
Main Results:
- Participants exhibited elevated scores for overall emotional distress and specific subscales (anxious/withdrawn, fearful, acting out).
- Nearly half of the children displayed sensory processing patterns categorized as 'more' or 'much more' than typical, with sensory avoidance and sensitivity being most common.
- Significant correlations were identified between various measures of emotional distress and sensory processing patterns.
Conclusions:
- Sensory processing difficulties are prevalent and significantly correlated with emotional distress in young children exposed to trauma.
- Occupational therapy interventions are crucial for addressing the environmental and regulatory needs of traumatized children.
- Early childhood trauma can alter children's emotional responses and sensory integration, impacting daily functioning.
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