Sensory Processing Disorders and Emotional Distress Among Young Children Exposed to Traumatic Events

Sensory processing difficulties frequently occurred and were significantly correlated with emotional distress among young children exposed to traumatic events. Occupational therapy practitioners working with children with sensory processing difficulties play a role in addressing the environmental and regulatory needs of young children affected by trauma. Plain-Language Summary: This study examined how young children ages 2 to 7 years were affected by the traumatic events after the October 7, 2023, terror attack in Israel. It focused on the correlation between emotional distress and sensory processing. Emotional distress refers to strong negative feelings that may affect how a child behaves. Among young children, it may show up as fear, anxiety or acting out. Sensory processing is how children notice, interpret, and respond to things they see, hear, touch, taste, or feel. Some children are overly sensitive and can be easily overwhelmed by sights, sounds, or textures. Others may not notice sensations that most people do, some may seek extra stimulation, and some may avoid certain sensations. The study included 37 children living near the Gaza border who directly experienced traumatic events. The results showed that many had high levels of emotional distress and sensory processing difficulties, especially sensitivity and avoidance. Emotional distress and sensory processing were correlated. The findings suggest that early childhood trauma can affect how children feel and respond to inputs in daily life. Occupational therapy practitioners can help these children by supporting their sensory needs to improve their participation in daily activities.