Sensory-seeking refers to a behavioural pattern or tendency in individuals where they actively seek out and engage in sensory experiences or stimuli. Individuals may have a heightened desire for sensory input and actively seek activities or environments that provide intense or stimulating sensations.
They may exhibit stimming behaviours such as seeking out tactile stimulation, rocking or spinning, jumping and rolling, seeking out loud sounds, or engaging in repetitive movements or stims. They might like being tickled or scratched, might enjoy playfighting or playing group sports, or going to concerts and crowded, stimulating environments.
This sensory-seeking behaviour can be a way for individuals to regulate their sensory processing or to fulfil their sensory needs.
Sensory seeking can vary in intensity and focus across individuals and can be present in conditions such as Sensory Processing Disorder, autism, or ADHD.
Related terms
hyperactivity
Hyperactive Type is one of the ADHD subtypes. Hyperactivity can present in physical and mental symptoms. Hyperactive traits include fidgeting and other sensory-seeking behaviours, interrupting others when they talk or finishing their sentences for them, impulsive actions and …
stimming
Stimming (also known as self-stimulating) is a common sensory-seeking neurodivergent behaviour. It means stimulating yourself in a repetitive manner to self-soothe, regulate, or express excitement. Stimming is common both in ADHD and autism.
Stimming movements, however, are …
hyposensitivity
Hyposensitivity, also known as sensory underresponsivity, is a condition characterized by a reduced sensitivity or diminished response to sensory stimuli from the environment.
Individuals with hyposensitivity may have difficulty with detecting or processing sensory inputs, such …
