The apple does not fall far from the tree...

by Kristen
(Kansas)

I've always known that I was a little different when it came to certain things, but after researching what was ailing my daughter I have come to find out I have the same disorder. We both have Hypersensitivity Tactile Dysfunction. I'm a 26 year-old woman who still wears my socks and underwear inside-out (shirts also while sleeping), can't stand the touch of newspaper, dirt, tennis shoes, air blowing on my skin, dirty feet or hands, tags, seams, etc. I constantly put lotion on my hands 40+ times/day to keep them from being dry. I have just learned to "cope."

My daughter has a horrible aversion to socks, underwear, kisses, pants/jeans/shorts, light touching (like hair or tickling her back,) lotion, etc. She really started acting up when she was 3 and we would try to get ready for pre-school. Everyday was a heated battle of trying to get her to wear certain clothes. Now, I try to let her wear what she can stand (if it is appropriate) and we haven't had as many meltdowns. She only likes to wear dresses and when it is cold she usually wears stretchy, soft pants, and the girl boxers for panties. My husband doesn't understand why even after many hours it still seems to torment her if she is "made" to wear something uncomfortable to her. It is interesting that I am able to understand what she is going through and emphasize and sympathize because I have it also.