Olfactory perception

From ActuallyAutistic Wiki

Olfactory perception, or the sense of smell, is a well-known sense. Autisitic people may be hyper- or hypo- sensitive to scents.

Hypersensitivity

For hypersensitive individuals, they may smell something others barely notice, or have a stronger reaction to scents than others.

Scents may cause discomfort or pain, for example by triggering a strong gag reflex or migraines.

Workarounds

Ways to compensate

Hyposensitivity

For hyposensitive individuals, they may not notice scents as readily as others, or simply may not respond to them as quickly.

Workarounds

Ways to compensate

Ways to stim with scents

  • Scented candles