Some Pathological and Non-Pathological Characteristics of the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

Background: The topic of Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) has become popular in recent times. This concept refers to individuals who possess the trait of “sensory processing sensitivity” (SPS) composed of features such as deep processing of sensory information, high emotional reactivity, easy overstimulation, and sensitivity to subtle detail. Methods: Using samples of university students and patients with social anxiety disorder and working with a modified version of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale, this study attempted to provide more information on some of the psychological problems with which SPS may be associated. Results: We found that SPS had statistically significant positive relationships with worries, ruminations, social anxiety, depression, dysfunctional anticipatory behaviors, perfectionism and some personality styles/disorders, and negative relationships with self-esteem, quality of life and some social skills. Similar results were found when people with high sensory processing sensitivity were compared to people with low sensory processing sensitivity. Conclusions: The study concluded that more research is needed to better define the SPS trait, its essential characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.