Background
The STAR (Sensory Processing, Treatment, and Research) Center was designed, and
continues to be directed by Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D. in Denver Colorado. Initiated in 1995, it was the only full-time research
program in the world investigating Sensory Processing Disorders (SPD). We here at VCU have worked with Dr. Miller to create a
laboratory in Richmond that will model the same rigorous scientific methods started in Denver. The SPASE (Sensory Processing
and Stress Evaluation) Lab at VCU is now one of only six such centers nationwide!
What is SPD?
Sensory processing is the ability most of us have to be able to take in sensory information
(through touch, movement, hearing, vision, smell and taste) and organize & interpret that information in a way that allows us
to interact in our world. An inability to accurately process sensory information from the environment can lead to
difficulties in learning, attention, motor skill development, and social-emotional development. SPD is commonly associated
with diagnoses such as autism, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Fragile X syndrome; although it is believed that SPD occurs in
at least 5% of the typical population.
Research Aims
| We are only beginning to understand what causes SPD and how to best treat
children with this disorder. The aims of the STAR Center and the SPASE Lab at VCU therefore are to: |
| - |
Conduct research into the causes and prevalence of SPD |
| - |
Determine whether SPD is a valid syndrome separate from other conditions such as Autism and ADHD |
| - |
Identify what neurologic, physiologic and biochemical mechanisms are affected in SPD |
| - |
Determine how SPD can best be treated |
The SPASE Lab at VCU
The lab at VCU is designed to make the child feel like he or she is preparing for a space
adventure. The sit in a pretend space chair and face a "control panel" monitor.
| Data is collected in three ways: |
| 1. |
Electrodes hooked up to the child’s hand |
| 2. |
Heart monitors on the child’s chest measures heart rate |
| 3. |
The child will be asked to suck on a piece of cotton (measures stress hormones in spit) |
| Based on the design by Dr. Miller and colleagues the child will be monitored
in response to 5 sensory stimuli: Sound, Vision, Touch, Smell, and Movement. After each stimulus is presented to the
child is rewarded with a sticker and asked to rate whether they liked the stimulus, whether the disliked the stimulus, or
whether it just didn’t bother them. |
 |
 |
 |
| I liked that! |
That didn't bother me! |
I didn't like that! |
Prior to coming to the lab, parents will be asked to fill out a questionnaire related to how
their child processes sensory information in different environments or situations. They may also be asked to fill out other
questionnaires related to their child’s behavior, play skills, or emotional reactivity.
Parents remain next door to the child throughout the testing session and watch their child
through a T.V. monitor. Before the study parents and children will be given opportunities to ask questions and look around
the lab. The time spent at SPASE Lab is meant to be fun and interactive!
|
