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Our Focus
The STAR Institute Research Center’s research focus is on treatment effectiveness. Consistent with evidence based practice, we want to insure that the services children and families receive at the STAR Institute Treatment Center are based on sound clinical evidence and embody the highest level of quality care. The methodology employed uses single subject research designs that allow the study of how individuals respond to treatment. Additionally, we are regularly conducting research trainings in single subject designs for clinicians who want to engage in research. The goal is to build knowledge that shows sensory-based treatments work!
Our Commitment to Research
The STAR Institute Research Center is committed to enhancing the quality of life for children and adults with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and their families by conducting and collaborating in rigorous research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of SPD.
The STAR Institute Research Center was the first organization to operate a full-time program of research into SPD. One study (Ahn, Miller, Milberger, McIntosh, 2004) shows that at least 1 in 20 children’s daily lives is affected by SPD. Another population-based study (Ben-Sasson, Carter, Briggs-Gowen, 2009) suggests that 1 in 6 children experiences sensory challenges sufficient to disrupt their academic, social, and/or emotional development. Today, the organization is recognized as a world leader in research, education, and advocacy for this disabling neurodevelopmental condition. Additionally, the STAR Institute Research Center has mobilized an international group of esteemed scientists, the SPD Scientific Work Group, and a national OT research team, the Sensory Integration Research Collaborative, to collaborate on finding research-based answers to questions about SPD:
Research at the STAR Institute Research Center is conducted in collaboration with the STAR Institute Treatment Center in Denver, Colorado.
Peer-reviewed research abstracts, articles, and other material by researchers can be located by topic in Our Library.
Research Updates
- Brain’s Wiring Connected To Sensory Processing Disorder, January 2016
- Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation Announces New Groundbreaking Study by UCSF Showing Kids with Autism and Sensory Processing Disorders Show Brain Wiring Differences, August 2014
- Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation Releases Early Research Findings Demonstrating Value of Treatment for Sensory Processing Disorder, June 2014
- New Breakthrough Study Revealing Biological Basis for Sensory Processing Disorders in Kids, July 2013
- The Washington Post: The debate over sensory processing disorder: Are some kids really ‘out of sync’?, May 2014