While scientists continue to unravel how autistic individuals process sensory input — from sights and sounds to touch — new research is calling for a vital shift in approach.

A study by Vassall, Shragge, Srinivasan, Quackenbush, and Wallace reveals that most multisensory autism research relies on highly verbal autistic individuals with average or above-average IQ — often excluding autistic people with high support needs (HSN), comorbidities, older age groups, and females. This narrow focus limits our understanding of how sensory integration varies across the full autism spectrum.

Key findings include:

• Only 6% of studies have included autistic individuals with intellectual disability, despite this representing over a third of the autism population.

• A mere 2% of studies include minimally verbal or nonverbal participants, even though that group comprises 15–30% of autistic individuals.

• Older adults, genetic syndromes (e.g., Fragile X, Rett), epilepsy, and females — whose sensory processing profiles may differ — are largely unrepresented.

These gaps matter profoundly. Without inclusive sampling, research findings may not reflect real-world sensory processing experiences and may inadvertently leave those needing support most behind.

The study argues for methodological shifts, such as:

• Designing protocols with passive or nonverbal responses (e.g., eye-tracking or gesture recognition)

• Incorporating adaptive technologies like AAC devices or mobile EEG for participants with sensory or behavioral sensitivities

• Actively recruiting underrepresented groups — including HSN individuals, older adults, and female autistic participants — into multisensory research

This isn’t just about fairness — it’s about scientific rigor and ensuring that autism research leads to tools, therapies, and insights that benefit every neurodivergent individual, regardless of support needs or sensory diversity.

Burble Creativity creates immersive sensory environments that can spark imagination, calming, mindfulness and support neurodiverse minds. Learn more at www.burblecreativity.com.