Dunn, Victoria Sally, Hodgson, Philip and Petty, Stephanie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1453-3313 (2026) A Systematic Review of the Sensory Processing Experiences of People with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Characterising Sensory Profiles and Exploring their Relationship with Participation Barriers in Daily Living. Research in Neurodiversity. (In Press)

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Abstract

Background

Optimal participation in daily life occurs when environmental demands align with an individual’s capabilities. For people with ADHD, the relationship between sensory processing differences and barriers to participation remains underexplored.

Objectives

To characterise self-reported sensory processing experiences of individuals with ADHD across the lifespan and explore interactions between sensory experiences and participation in daily living activities.

Data Sources

Ten databases were systematically searched up to August 2026. Manual reference screening of included studies was also conducted.

Eligibility Criteria

Participants had a medical diagnosis of ADHD, were not taking ADHD-specific medication and were not autistic. Consistent with a neurodiversity-affirming approach, participants were recognised as experts in their own experiences, with only self-reported sensory experiences included. Peer-reviewed studies published in English were included, with no age restrictions.

Methods

This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023434725) and conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Across the lifespan, participants reported sensory processing differences from peers without ADHD, including hyper- and hyposensitivity across sensory domains. Limited longitudinal research and the underrepresentation of older adults restricted understanding of developmental trajectories. Sensory differences were associated with barriers to participation, particularly within work and higher education settings.

Limitations

Methodological limitations included small samples, incomplete reporting of measurement properties and participant medication use, and an absence of matched comparison groups in some studies.

Conclusions

Evidence remains limited and is predominantly measurement-focused rather than centred on lived experience. Future research should provide detailed methodology, adopt neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and prioritise co-production to develop sensory-based strategies that support accessibility, participation, and uphold difference-rather-than-deficit principles for people with ADHD.

Keywords

Sensory Processing; ADHD; Neurodiversity; Sensory Experience, Epistemic Injustice, Participation

Item Type:	Article
Status:	In Press
DOI:	10.1016/j.rin.2026.100062
School/Department:	School of Science, Technology and Health
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/15562

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