What term describes the condition of being overly sensitive to touch?

Tactile defensiveness refers to a specific sensory processing condition where an individual exhibits heightened sensitivity to tactile stimuli. This can manifest as discomfort or distress when the skin is touched, or even when in the presence of certain textures, temperatures, or sensations. Individuals who experience tactile defensiveness may react strongly to experiences that others might find benign, indicating that their sensory system is interpreting touch in an exaggerated or overwhelming manner.

This term is particularly relevant in fields such as occupational therapy and music therapy, where understanding sensory processing can guide therapeutic strategies. Tactile defensiveness can affect a person’s ability to engage comfortably in daily activities or therapeutic interventions, necessitating tailored approaches to support sensory regulation.

The other terms presented in the options are related to different concepts. Sound discrimination pertains to the ability to distinguish between different sounds, which is not relevant to touch sensitivity. Velocity refers to the speed of something, often used in contexts like physics or music regarding tempo but does not relate to sensory processing. Auditory memory involves the process of remembering and recalling sounds, which again does not pertain to touch or tactile experiences. Understanding tactile defensiveness is crucial for addressing the needs of individuals who experience this kind of sensory sensitivity.