Interoception and Regulation: Teaching Skills of Body Awareness and Supporting Connection with Others

There are some things that many of us take for granted - such as knowing when we are hot or cold, feel hungry, or need to go to the toilet. But how do we know these things, and why do some people struggle to recognise them?

Interoception - the ability to identify and act on physical sensations inside the body - is crucial to human well-being. It underpins physical developmental milestones, such as toilet-training, as well emotional ones, such as the ability to self-regulate. Research shows that Autism often co-occurs with poor interoceptive sense.

This practical and informative book demystifies interoception and provides tools to help boost interoceptive abilities. It summarises the latest research, explores how interoceptive difficulties can be identified, suggests strategies to manage feelings and emotions, and explains how to support individuals in 'tuning in' to themselves.

"This book is essential reading for anyone working with and supporting autistic people. It presents detailed information on interoception, a vital but often neglected part of our understanding of autistic experience. Through this the book challenges unhelpful stereotypes around autistic behaviors. Highly recommended. "
- Yenn Purkis, autistic author and advocate