The effects of sensory stimulatory treatment on an autistic child.

This article was acceptedfor publication October 1, 1990. Occupational therapy has greatly increased the medical profession's awareness of sensory in­ put and its effect on motor output, based on the foundation proVided by Rood (McCormack, 1990; Trombly, 1989) and Ayres (1973, 1985). From her person­ al experience, Grandin (1986) offered a unique perspec­ tive on the importance of deep pressure and tactile input for their calming effects on persons with autism. Her ability to communicate her needs and feelings has been remarkable and insightful. Unfortunately, many autistic persons are unable to express their functional needs and motivations clearly, thus leaving us to rely on our observa­ tional skills and the desires and needs of the family mem­ bers and other caregivers. The treatment in the present case report is based on the folloWing neurophysiological principles of Rood (as cited by Huss, 1983):