Early Sensory Differences in Infants May Influence Later Autistic Traits, Study Finds

September 11, 2026 2 Min Read

Introduction

New research suggests that sensory processing differences observed as early as 12 months of age in infants who are later diagnosed with autism may influence the development of subsequent autistic traits. This study, conducted with a cohort of Chinese infants, provides prospective evidence supporting the idea that early sensory behaviors can cascade into later social and communicative outcomes.

Key Findings on Sensory Profiles and Autism

The study followed 134 infants from 12 to 36 months, assessing their sensory processing through the Toddler Sensory Profile-2 tool. Researchers compared four sensory domains—sensitivity, avoiding, registration, and seeking—between infants later diagnosed with autism and those with typical development.

Infants who were later diagnosed with autism showed significantly higher levels of sensory sensitivity and sensory avoiding behaviors at 12 months, as well as elevated sensory registration scores. Notably, sensory sensitivity exhibited distinct developmental trajectories over time compared to typically developing peers.

Impact on Social and Communicative Development

Using Structural Equation Modeling and path analysis, the study found that increased sensory avoiding behaviors at 18 months indirectly affected social-communication skills at 36 months. This effect was mediated by social skills measured at 24 months, indicating that early sensory avoiding may hinder social development during toddlerhood.

Specifically, higher sensory avoiding at 18 months negatively predicted social skills at 24 months, which in turn influenced social-communication outcomes at 36 months.

Positive Role of Sensory Seeking

Interestingly, the study also identified that elevated sensory seeking behaviors at 18 months were associated with improved adaptive skills at 36 months. This suggests that some sensory differences may support certain developmental strengths within the autism spectrum.

Context and Implications for Families

These findings align with the cascading effect model, which proposes that early sensory differences can shape later developmental trajectories in autism. Recognizing sensory avoiding behaviors early may help in identifying children who could benefit from targeted interventions to support social communication.

Moreover, understanding that sensory seeking behaviors might contribute positively to adaptive functioning highlights the diversity of developmental pathways in autism and the importance of individualized approaches.

Limitations and Considerations

While the study offers valuable longitudinal insights, it is important to note that sensory differences are one of many factors influencing autism development. The sample was limited to Chinese infants, which may affect generalizability. Additionally, the observational nature of the study means causation cannot be definitively established.

Families and caregivers should consider these findings as part of a broader understanding of autism and consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.

Source

For more detailed information, see the original study published in the Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42723023/.