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oai:figshare.com:article/34024644 2026-09-29T15:46:09Z portal_603 item_type_8 month_year_09_2026

The neurological patterns of sensory integration in children with psychological trauma Mary Hamilton (3219663) children psychological trauma sensory integration assessment parent perception <p dir="ltr">What was Investigated and Why: As an Occupational Therapist delivering Sensory Integration (SI) therapy, I repeatedly observed distinct neurological patterns during assessments of children with psychological trauma (PT). Despite consistent success using movement-based SI therapy, I questioned why referrals for SI assessment were typically made only after other trauma-focused interventions such as play therapy, counselling, or psychological support had been tried. This study aimed to investigate these recurring patterns and explore why SI assessments are often considered a last resort. The objectives were to identify and describe neurological patterns observed in SI assessments, understand how parents interpret their children's behaviours, and examine their experiences of assessment and support. Combining clinical insights with parental perspectives, this study sought to strengthen the evidence base for earlier, integrated use of SI assessment.</p><p dir="ltr">How the Topic was Investigated: Mixed methods were used, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Children aged 4-16 (n=65) with behavioural challenges and a history of psychological trauma were externally referred for SI assessment. Data from two standardised tools, the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT) and the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) were analysed, including past cases (n=55) and newly collected data (n=10). Semi-structured interviews with the 10 new parents explored their child’s behaviours, how they interpreted them, and their experiences of the assessment journey.</p><p dir="ltr">What was Found: Quantitative data revealed a pattern of decreased balance and movement, identified as vestibular bilateral integration sequencing (VBIS), potentially underlying negative behaviours in children with PT. Qualitative findings showed parents viewed behaviours through a trauma-focused lens, with prior support focusing on parenting rather than the child’s sensory-motor needs.</p><p dir="ltr">What Conclusions were drawn from the Evidence: Distinct neurological patterns in children with psychological trauma were identified, and parent experiences highlighted why SI assessments are often delayed. Findings support recommending earlier inclusion of SI assessment within referral pathways, especially for children with distinct sensory needs before other trauma-focused interventions.</p> 2026-09-29T15:46:09Z Text Thesis 10.25411/aru.34024644.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/The_neurological_patterns_of_sensory_integration_in_children_with_psychological_trauma/34024644 CC BY-NC-ND 4.0