Which description best captures multi-sensory dormancy?

• A. Scant attention, avoids eye contact, does not react to input and ignores input, emotionally detached, unavailable, and shut down
• B. Highly engaged and seeking input
• C. Hyperactive and seeks movement
• D. Normal sensory processing

Answer: (A)

Multi-sensory dormancy is when a child shows minimal response to sensory input across multiple senses, effectively shutting down emotionally and behaviorally. The description that best captures this pattern emphasizes limited attention, avoidance of eye contact, no reaction to input, and an overall detached, unavailable state, which aligns with a protective withdrawal in response to overwhelm. In contrast, patterns of being highly engaged and seeking input, or hyperactive movement, reflect active sensory engagement rather than dormancy, and normal sensory processing indicates typical responsiveness. In practice, recognizing dormancy helps differentiate it from mere disinterest and guides a calm, safety-focused approach that supports gradual, predictable re-engagement with sensory experiences.