Interoception and Autism

Interoception refers to the perception and awareness of internal bodily states. It involves the ability to sense and interpret physiological signals originating from within the body, such as hunger, thirst, heartbeat, temperature, respiration, and the need for bodily functions. Interoception is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and overall well-being as it allows an individual to respond appropriately to bodily needs and emotional states. This internal sensory system plays a significant role in emotional experiences and self-regulation by linking physical sensations with emotional responses.

Relevance to Autism

For example, interoceptive awareness includes the ability to feel a racing heartbeat when anxious or to recognize a sensation of fullness to prevent overeating. In autism, this sense may be heightened or diminished, leading to unique challenges such as difficulty in identifying states of discomfort or illness, or misinterpreting signals of emotional changes which are critical in social interactions and personal health management. Moreover, the role of interoception in autism extends to fundamental daily activities; it influences everything from toilet training—where recognizing the need to urinate can be delayed or unclear—to managing anxiety and stress levels in response to overstimulation or environmental changes. These distinct interoceptive experiences can significantly affect how individuals with autism recognize and communicate their needs and emotions, thus requiring tailored strategies that address these sensory processing differences to enhance their quality of life and autonomy."