Sensory processing and executive functioning interaction in neurodevelopmental disorders and at-risk conditions: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined associations between sensory processing (SP) and executive functioning (EF) in children and adolescents aged 0–18 with neurodevelopmental disorders or at-risk conditions. It synthesized 30 peer-reviewed studies using qualitative and quantitative analyses. SP and EF were consistently associated, with reported correlations ranging from r = .19 to r = .77; the pooled effect was medium (d =.58). Heterogeneity was substantial (I^2 = 82.9%) and was not explained by diagnosis, age, EF component, or correlation adjustment. Assessment modality moderated the association, with stronger associations and lower heterogeneity for performance-based measures.

Key findings

• Across studies, SP–EF correlations ranged from r = .19 to r = .77, with a pooled medium effect (d =.58).
• Heterogeneity was substantial (I^2 = 82.9%); assessment modality was a significant moderator, with stronger associations for performance-based measures.
• SP measures statistically accounted for 28-71% of EF variance in regression models.
• Mediation analyses indicated indirect associations involving EF, particularly emotion regulation and inhibitory control, between SP and adaptive or functional outcomes.

Why it matters

The findings suggest that sensory processing and executive functioning are closely linked across pediatric neurodevelopmental and at-risk populations. Considering both domains may help clinicians interpret assessment results and understand functional outcomes. The stronger associations seen with performance-based measures also indicate that conclusions about this relationship may depend on how sensory processing and executive functioning are assessed.

What to keep in mind

The evidence showed substantial heterogeneity (I^2 = 82.9%), limiting the consistency of pooled estimates across studies.