Design and Product Development

Investigation of Therapy Clothing Products for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

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Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a developmental disorder with a wide range of symptoms including difficulty with communication and social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and deficits in sensory perception. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are particularly sensitive to the surrounding environment. The sensory issues may include: oversensitivity to loud noises and touching. Typical behaviors due to overstimulation are: withdrawing to avoid the overwhelming sensation, temper tantrums, screaming, and running away. The sensory systems of individuals with ASD may become overloaded since they have difficulty filtering stimuli from the environment, and become overwhelmed. Oversensitivity to loud noises and touching may cause the child to withdraw to avoid the overwhelming sensation. Several studies (Tseng et al, 2011) reveal that the sensory processing dysfunction is related to the emotional and behavioral problems in children with autism. Weighted vests are used to help on task behavior such as inattentiveness. A weighted vest can provide the child with a sensory input that is believed, to alleviate sensory difficulties.

How to Cite:

Shin, S. H., Smith, B. & Gaines, K., (2015) “Investigation of Therapy Clothing Products for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 72(1).