Multisensory environments: Are they therapeutic? A single-subject evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of a multisensory environment

Abstract

• This article reviews the current literature on multisensory therapy. • Utilizing a single-subject quasi-experimental design, the therapeutic clinical effectiveness of multisensory therapy in promoting relaxation in a young man with learning disabilities is evaluated. • Findings support the hypothesis that multisensory therapy can promote relaxation. • It is concluded that multisensory environments are therapeutic, in that they can promote relaxation, and they may also have a place in the care of people with learning disabilities who display challenging behaviours. © 1999 Blackwell Science Ltd.