I found this book at the thrift store today, and it even had the good parts already underlined in pencil for me. Its a great book!

States of Consciousness

States of Consciousness, a classic by world authority Charles T. Tart, is a basic understanding of how the mind is a dynamic, culturally biased, semi-arbitrary construction and system. A systematic exploration of how and why altered states can come about and their possibilities. As a student of h…

Unlocking the Secrets of Consciousness: How Charles Tart’s “States of Consciousness” Illuminates Autistic Sensory Processing

In Charles Tart’s “States of Consciousness,” the concept of “Input-Processing” is one of the major subsystems of consciousness. This subsystem automates the selection and abstraction of sensory input, allowing us to perceive only what is considered “important” based on personal and cultural standards​​.

Input-Processing Subsystem: Importance and Function

Overview

The Input-Processing subsystem is crucial because it helps manage the vast amount of sensory information we receive, ensuring that we are not overwhelmed by irrelevant data. This subsystem filters incoming sensory stimuli, highlighting what our brain deems significant while disregarding the rest. This process is highly automated, operating below the level of conscious awareness most of the time.

Importance in Daily Functioning

1. Efficiency in Perception: By filtering sensory inputs, the Input-Processing subsystem allows us to focus on what is immediately relevant, enhancing our ability to respond effectively to our environment. For example, while walking down a busy street, this subsystem helps us notice traffic signals and pedestrian movements rather than being distracted by every single sound or visual stimulus.
2. Cultural and Personal Relevance: The criteria for what is considered important are influenced by both personal experiences and cultural norms. This means our perceptions are tailored to what we need to function within our specific cultural context, aiding in social interactions and adherence to societal norms.
3. Adaptation and Survival: On a more fundamental level, the Input-Processing subsystem is essential for survival. By quickly identifying and prioritizing potential threats or opportunities, this subsystem helps us navigate our environment safely and efficiently.

Parallels to Autistic Perception

In autism, sensory processing can often be atypical, leading to differences in how sensory input is filtered and prioritized:

1. Hyper- and Hypo-Sensitivity: Many autistic individuals experience either heightened sensitivity (hyper-sensitivity) or reduced sensitivity (hypo-sensitivity) to sensory stimuli. This can mean that the Input-Processing subsystem may either filter out too little, resulting in sensory overload, or too much, leading to missed important cues.
2. Different Criteria for Relevance: The standards for what is deemed “important” sensory input can differ significantly from neurotypical norms. Autistic individuals might focus intensely on details that others might overlook and find overwhelming stimuli that others can easily ignore.
3. Impact on Daily Life: These differences in sensory processing can significantly impact daily functioning. For instance, in a noisy environment, an autistic person might struggle with overwhelming auditory input that their Input-Processing subsystem cannot filter out efficiently. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and a need for sensory accommodations to create a more manageable environment.

Teaching and Understanding: A Precursor to ABA

Tart’s exploration in “States of Consciousness” predates the development of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and offers insights into sensory processing that can be seen as inadvertently teaching how to experience the world in an “autistic” way. By delving deeply into how sensory input is processed and filtered, Tart’s work can help neurotypical individuals understand and perhaps even adopt certain aspects of autistic sensory experiences as a means of self-discovery and personal growth.

Finding Oneself Through Sensory Awareness

Tart’s systems approach suggests that by understanding and manipulating our sensory input processing, we can achieve altered states of consciousness that lead to self-discovery. This is akin to experiencing the world as an autistic person might, with heightened awareness of sensory details and a different prioritization of stimuli. Such an approach can broaden one’s understanding of consciousness and the human experience, offering a path to deeper self-awareness and personal insight.

Conclusion

Tart’s detailed exploration of how the mind processes and filters sensory input provides valuable insights for understanding autistic sensory experiences. Recognizing the variability in sensory processing and the potential for overload can help appreciate the challenges faced by autistic individuals. This understanding can inform strategies to create supportive environments that minimize sensory distress and enhance well-being. Tart’s work essentially teaches elements of autistic sensory processing as a method for finding oneself, predating ABA and highlighting the importance of sensory awareness in personal development.