Dysfunction in the Tactile System (sense of touch) can lead to problems with writing, grooming, and social interaction.
Take a look at the human body and notice how much of it is covered by skin. The sense of touch plays a significant role in our understanding of ourselves and how we respond to the world around us.
Clues that may indicate a weakness with tactility include:
- Extreme ticklishness
- Tendency to touch other people or objects excessively
- Unusual pencil grasp (e.g. with the tip of the thumb off the writing implement)
- Dislike of (or reaction to) synthetic fabrics or tags in clothing
- Sensitivity to socks with seams, elastic waistbands, belts, loose threads, etc.
- Intolerance of haircuts, hair brushing, face washing, finger nail cutting
- Inability to sleep with a top sheet on the bed, or with a top sheet that is not tucked in military style
- Aversion to being sticky, dirty, sandy, messy etc. OR unaware of being this this way
- Dislike of being physically guided (being taken by the hand or given gentle guidance with a hand on the back)
- Avoidance of touch (by hands or mouth) of anything “mushy” or “slimy” or having mixed textures
- Unusual reaction to the application of lotion