What term describes a negative reaction to one or more types of sensations that affects daily routines?

The term that describes a negative reaction to one or more types of sensations that affects daily routines is sensory defensiveness. This condition occurs when an individual has an exaggerated or adverse response to sensory input. People experiencing sensory defensiveness may find certain sounds, textures, lights, or other stimuli overwhelming or distressing, which can significantly disrupt their ability to engage in everyday activities.

Sensory defensiveness is often characterized by avoidance behaviors or discomfort in response to sensory experiences that others might find neutral or even pleasant. This heightened sensitivity can lead to significant challenges in social situations, school settings, or at work, as those affected may struggle to cope with environments where various sensory inputs are present.

In contrast, sensory processing disorder refers to a broader category where an individual has difficulty processing and responding appropriately to sensory information, which can include both over-responsivity (like sensory defensiveness) and under-responsivity. Sensory overload specifically pertains to instances where sensory input exceeds an individual's ability to process that information, leading to feelings of panic or distress. Sensory seeking refers to a behavior where individuals actively seek out intense sensory experiences, contrasting with defensive reactions.