What is the intended function of utilizing a 'Sensory Ladder' approach for individuals categorized as sensory avoiding?

Building tolerance incrementally by negotiating input one slight step less aversive than the trigger

The Sensory Ladder is a strategy specifically designed for individuals who exhibit sensory avoidance, often due to hypersensitivity. The core principle respects the protective nature of their avoidance response by avoiding forcing the full trigger input outright. Instead, the approach involves creating a hierarchy of sensory experiences. The individual starts with an input that is only marginally less aversive than the primary trigger—for instance, moving from avoiding finger paint to touching dry rice. Each successful step forward is treated as a small negotiation with the nervous system, incrementally building tolerance without overwhelming the system to the point of triggering a complete avoidance meltdown. This graduated exposure allows for slow, successful integration of challenging sensations.