Estudio descriptivo del perfil sensorial en usuarios con neurodivergencia en contextos educativos de la Ciudad de Cuenca - Ecuador 2025

Abstract

Background: Sensory integration is a neurological process through which the nervous system organizes and interprets sensory information from both the environment and the body. When this process is impaired, it can affect motor behavior, learning, and adaptation to the environment, particularly in neurodivergent individuals, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Local research on this topic remains limited; therefore, this study proposed the use of a standardized questionnaire, the Sensory Profile 2, to obtain a comprehensive assessment of sensory profile quadrants in everyday contexts. Objective: To determine the sensory profile of neurodivergent individuals attending specialized and inclusive educational centers in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador, during the period from September 2025 to February 2026. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 60 neurodivergent individuals enrolled in the NOVA and ADINEA educational centers. The Sensory Profile 2 questionnaire was administered to the parents or legal guardians of the participants. Results: Among the 60 participants evaluated, most were between 8 and 10 years of age, with a predominance of males (78.3%). The sensory profile was characterized by heightened sensory sensitivity in 40 participants, along with high levels of behavioral activity (68.3%). The most prevalent diagnosis among participants was Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (40.0%). Conclusion: The study population demonstrated a predominance of sensory hyperresponsiveness patterns and elevated behavioral reactivity.