Hi,

Interoception is an emerging field. literature on the question which you seek seems limited. You may get some leads from some of these references.

Bonaz B, Lane RD, Oshinsky ML, Kenny PJ, Sinha R, Mayer EA, Critchley HD. Diseases, Disorders, and Comorbidities of Interoception. Trends Neurosci. 2021 Jan;44(1):39-51. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2020.09.009. PMID: 33378656.

Yang HX, Zhou HY, Zheng H, Wang Y, Wang YY, Lui SSY, Chan RCK. Individuals with Autistic Traits Exhibit Heightened Alexithymia But Intact Interoceptive-Exteroceptive Sensory Integration. J Autism Dev Disord. 2022 Jul;52(7):3142-3152. doi: 10.1007/s10803-021-05199-y. Epub 2021 Jul 20. PMID: 34286394.

Bonete S, Molinero C, Ruisanchez D. Emotional Dysfunction and Interoceptive Challenges in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Behav Sci (Basel). 2023 Apr 5;13(4):312. doi: 10.3390/bs13040312. PMID: 37102826; PMCID: PMC10136046.

Yang HX, Zhou HY, Li Y, Cui YH, Xiang Y, Yuan RM, Lui SSY, Chan RCK. Decreased interoceptive accuracy in children with autism spectrum disorder and with comorbid attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Autism Res. 2022 Apr;15(4):729-739. doi: 10.1002/aur.2679. Epub 2022 Jan 27. PMID: 35088528.

DuBois D, Ameis SH, Lai MC, Casanova MF, Desarkar P. Interoception in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A review. Int J Dev Neurosci. 2016 Aug;52:104-11. doi: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2016.05.001. Epub 2016 Jun 3. PMID: 27269967.

Husna, your question pertains to the role of interoceptive sense in toilet training individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Let's explore this topic:

Interoception refers to the sense of the internal state of one's body, including sensations related to bodily functions such as heart rate, respiration, temperature, hunger, and the need to urinate or defecate. It plays a crucial role in regulating and responding to bodily needs and maintaining overall well-being.

For individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder, which is characterized by atypical processing of sensory information, including difficulties in processing and responding to sensory input, interoception can be affected. This can result in challenges in recognizing and interpreting bodily signals, including the need to use the toilet.

In toilet training individuals with SPD, addressing interoceptive difficulties is important. Here are some considerations:

1. Sensory-based strategies: Sensory-based interventions can be helpful in enhancing interoceptive awareness. These may include activities that promote body awareness and sensory integration, such as deep pressure activities, proprioceptive exercises, and vestibular input. These strategies can help individuals with SPD become more attuned to bodily sensations, including the need to use the toilet.

2. Environmental modifications: Creating a sensory-friendly environment can support toilet training. This may involve ensuring that the bathroom environment is calm, comfortable, and free from overwhelming sensory stimuli. Providing appropriate seating and positioning options that accommodate the individual's sensory needs can also be beneficial.

3. Visual supports and social stories: Visual supports, such as schedules, diagrams, or pictures, can help individuals with SPD understand the steps involved in toilet training and provide a visual reminder of the process. Social stories, which present information in a narrative format, can be used to explain and normalize the experience of using the toilet.

4. Gradual desensitization: Gradually exposing individuals to the sensations and routines associated with toilet training can help desensitize any aversions or sensitivities they may have. This can be done by introducing the steps of toilet training in a progressive and structured manner, gradually increasing the individual's comfort level.

It's important to note that toilet training approaches should be individualized and tailored to the specific sensory needs and challenges of each person with SPD. Working with occupational therapists or healthcare professionals experienced in sensory integration can provide valuable guidance and support in developing a personalized toilet training plan.

Remember, successful toilet training for individuals with SPD may require patience, understanding, and a multi-faceted approach that considers sensory factors, individual differences, and the unique needs of each person.