Frequently asked questions

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Is the Highly Sensitive trait inherited genetically?

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Genetic factors account for 50% of the variation in sensitivity, with environmental factors explaining the other 50%.  Instead of being controlled by a single "sensitivity gene," sensitivity is likely influenced by the cumulative effect of thousands of genes, each with a minor contribution.

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Research indicates that children with a higher genetic predisposition to sensitivity are more susceptible to the impact of parenting quality. Similarly, highly sensitive adults tend to benefit more from psychological interventions. Regarding environmental factors, some researchers suggest that the direct expression of Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) is primarily shaped by "non-shared environments"—environmental factors that contribute to differences between family members, such as illnesses, accidents, peer influences, and varying perceptions of the same environment.

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While the HSP trait is generally considered innate, Japanese psychiatrist Dr Mutsuo Naganuma theorizes that adverse childhood environments can also lead to a form of heightened sensitivity, specifically related to attachment disorders. In these instances, individuals may exhibit heightened reactivity to stimuli, functioning similarly to those born with an inherent predisposition for deeper sensory processing.

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Is high sensitivity a disorder?

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High sensitivity isn't a disorder or symptom, but a variation in information processing, comparable to the diversity of handedness or height. These differences often serve a purpose and are maintained in the gene pool because they contribute to a species' survival.

 

The connection between high sensitivity and mental well-being lies in the amplified experience of highly sensitive individuals. They feel both positive and negative experiences with greater intensity. Consequently, prolonged exposure to negative, harmful, or stressful environments can increase their risk of chronic fatigue, burnout, anxiety, and depression.

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Are all HSPs introverts?

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Not all highly sensitive people are introverted. Research indicates that roughly 70% are introverted, while the remaining 30% are extroverted.

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Introverted HSPs require more solitary time to recover from overstimulation. Extroverted HSPs, although needing more alone time than non-sensitive extroverts after socializing, still benefit from social interaction to gain energy and stay balanced.

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Highly sensitive individuals often learn by observing rather than actively exploring their environment, leading to possible mischaracterization as introverted or shy. Earlier studies often equated introversion with high sensitivity. However, high sensitivity is a core, inherent trait, whereas introversion is a multifaceted personality characteristic shaped by many influences, with sensitivity being just one.

 

Do HSPs have extraordinary senses (for example, exceptional hearing) or senses that are otherwise unusual?

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Not necessarily. The core characteristic of HSPs lies not in extraordinary senses, but in the brain's deeper processing of sensory information.

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While some HSPs may report heightened sensory acuity in one or more areas, others may have average or even below-average vision or hearing. This suggests that the sensitivity arises from a more thorough processing of sensory input, rather than any inherent difference in their sensory organs.

 

Are women more sensitive than men?

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Research shows no genetic differences in sensitivity between genders. Age, gender, and race do not inherently influence the Highly Sensitive trait. However, cultural norms significantly shape its expression. Studies indicate that sensitive men are actually more susceptible to environmental influences, while women tend to self-report higher sensitivity levels on questionnaires.

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The observed higher sensitivity in women may be attributed to sociocultural factors rather than biological sex differences. For instance, in many societies, sensitivity is often considered more of a feminine trait, encouraging women to express and accept it more readily, while men may be more inclined to suppress, deny, or avoid acknowledging their sensitivity.

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Is High Sensitivity a trait unique to humans?

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No, high sensitivity is not unique to humans. Research over the years has demonstrated this trait in over 100 other animal species, ranging from insects and fish to mammals such as goats, mice, primates, and pigs. This widespread occurrence suggests that high sensitivity likely provides an evolutionary advantage.

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In line with the principle of "survival of the fittest," traits that enhance adaptation and survival, both individually and at the species level, are naturally selected and retained, thus conferring an evolutionary advantage.

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Is High Sensitivity related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

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While many individuals with autism or ADHD may exhibit certain highly sensitive traits, the majority of highly sensitive individuals are neither autistic nor do they have ADHD. Although distinct from autism and ADHD, high sensitivity can co-occur with either condition. A crucial difference between high sensitivity and autism lies in empathy and responsiveness to social stimuli. Highly sensitive children might appear withdrawn and unresponsive in unfamiliar or overstimulating environments. However, when they feel secure and comfortable, they readily respond to social cues like smiles and eye contact. Moreover, highly sensitive individuals tend to be imaginative, possess a broader range of interests, and have attention that is not fixated on a single object or topic.

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Regarding high sensitivity and ADHD, they are, in many respects, opposing traits. ADHD is often mistaken for high sensitivity, particularly as it's a common diagnosis for children experiencing difficulties at school or adults feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope with life. ADHD is strongly linked to an excess of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with impulsivity and risk-taking behaviours. Conversely, highly sensitive individuals demonstrably lack hyperactive or impulsive symptoms; their habits tend towards the opposite of impulsivity, often favouring an "observe first, do it right the first time" approach. To further differentiate between high sensitivity and ADHD, Dr Aron highlights a key test: assessing the ability to concentrate in a quiet environment. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with this and may even find it easier to focus with some background noise. Conversely, most highly sensitive individuals can exhibit exceptional concentration in calm, quiet settings, free from excessive stimulation.

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At present, more research is required to disentangle the similarities and differences between highly sensitive traits and neurodevelopmental disorders. Crucially, existing methods of measuring sensitive traits are not diagnostic tools. If you are concerned that you or your child may have autism or ADHD, please consult a professional for an accurate diagnosis.