Parental sensory processing patterns and parenting: a systematic review

Introduction Parenting is known to substantially influence children's developmental, mental health, and relational outcomes. The capacity to parent in a responsive, attuned way is underpinned by parental mental health and wellbeing, which has, in turn, been linked with parents' sensory processing patterns (i.e., how an individual uniquely receives, interprets, and responds to sensory input), which can vary from typical to over- or under-responsive. Although primary studies report associations between parental sensory processing and parenting, these findings have not been systematically synthesized. This systematic review addresses the question: what are the known associations between parental sensory processing and parenting characteristics? Methods This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024490846) and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, PubMed, and PsycNet databases were searched for relevant primary articles, published in English within peer-reviewed journals. Included studies were appraised using the Quality Assessment with Diverse Studies (QuADS) tool and underwent narrative synthesis. Results Twenty-four studies were included, ranging from moderate (29/39) to high (38/39) quality, with a mean score of 33.5/39 (86%). Sensory over responsivity was consistently linked to elevated emotional strain in caregiving, heightened susceptibility to stress, and more reactive, intrusive, or inconsistent parenting behaviors, alongside high attunement to their child. Sensory under responsivity showed patterns of reduced behavioral activation, lower perceived parenting competence, and difficulties initiating or sustaining caregiving tasks. Sensory seeking tendencies were more often associated with positive parenting experiences, including higher engagement with the sensory aspects of pregnancy and parenting, although they were sometimes paired with reduced behavioral monitoring. Discussion Considering parents' sensory profiles may be valuable when supporting families, especially if parents have atypical sensory processing patterns. These insights underscore the potential utility of sensory-informed approaches for parents and may inform further research on specific sensory strategies to support optimal parenting and, ultimately, child outcomes. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024490846