The Highly Sensitive Person Theory

Written By Stephanie Bower, LSW

The Highly Sensitive Person Theory

As a therapist, I not only find a deep interest and fulfillment in my work with others but have found my own personal journey in learning about myself to be interesting and life-giving. Studying sensitivity stemmed from my desire to learn about a trait I first noticed in myself. On my journey to self awareness and personal development, I went on to learn about the common experiences of the Highly Sensitive Person or what is scientifically known as the Sensory Processing Sensitivity trait. The term Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is a term coined by psychologists Elaine and Arthur Aron in the 1990s to describe people with increased sensitivities physically, emotionally and/or socially. Aron makes a point to share key pieces of information about this trait.

Common experiences of individuals with HSP include the following:

  • Easily overwhelmed by lights, sounds or textures.

  • Feeling overwhelmed on busy days and needing to retreat to recharge.

  • Having a rich and complex inner life.

  • Avoidance of violent or disturbing media in favor of calming media.

  • Noticing and enjoying delicate scents, tastes, sounds or works of art.

Aron’s Theory:

  • The HSP trait is normal. High sensitivity is found in 15 to 20% of the population

  • It is innate. Biologists have found it in over 100 species from fruit flies, birds, and fish to dogs, cats, horses, and primates. This trait reflects survival instinct.

  • HSP’s are more aware than others of subtleties.  The brain of an HSP notices subtleties but also processes information deeply. It could be said we see the bumble bee but we also see the garden and want to know how the two work together.

  • HSP’s can be more easily overwhelmed. HSP’s have a heightened awareness of their environments and can be overwhelmed by excess input.

  • This trait is not a new discovery, but it has been misunderstood. HSP’s previously were viewed as individuals with introversion but 30% of HSPs are extroverts. Additionally, the HSP trait has also been called inhibitedness or neuroticism by some. While some HSPs behave in these ways Aron posits it is not innate to do so and not the basic trait.

In my research into this theory, I was interested in learning about what influences the development of this trait. A number of causes can be correlated with this trait. Factors such as early childhood experiences, genetics, environment and/or evolution appear to be at play. In addition to providing insight into the cause of the trait, Arons research goes further into the common experiences, strengths and challenges of HSP’s.

Challenges

Some of the challenges that HSP's may find themselves experiencing depend on the individual. Some common shared experiences include feeling overwhelmed with stimuli and needing to take frequent breaks to recharge. Sometimes HSP's can feel misunderstood by others as their sensitivity may not be valued in their particular culture. Additionally, HSP’s may avoid conflict, overthink or be more vulnerable to social burn out. These challenges can require some support and while being a HSP is not a diagnosis, people with this trait may deal with neurodivergence in different forms and need support. As we paint the picture of challenges HSP's experience it is important to note the many strengths of HSP's.

Strengths

Some of the strengths HSP's can experience are high levels of empathy, intuition, creativity, self care skills and observational skills. Each strength is individual to the person and their willingness and interest in self-development. As a HSP, I find myself to be empathetic and observant but skills like intuition and creativity have taken me longer to develop through intentionality.  As someone with the HSP trait, the path to self-discovery felt natural and integral to my happiness and I am happy I found this research.  Since learning about this trait, I have become more intentional about self-awareness, self care, slowing down and embracing the little joys in life. This has allowed me to love my life as someone with the HSP trait! If you have found that some of this information resonates with you then I encourage you to learn more about this trait.

 Getting support

Navigating life as a HSP can be beautiful but sometimes overwhelming as you learn to harness your strengths and appreciate your trait. Seeking the support of others and fostering connection with others is important. Learning how to care for yourself and allow others to care for you is important. Two Roads offers a number of supports that allow for personal development and self care on your journey. To learn more about the Highly Sensitive person a number of resources are available.

Citations

Research Studies

Books

About Two Roads Wellness Clinic

At Two Roads Wellness Clinic, we want to experience the difference of personalized health care. We’re an integrative health clinic offering a vast array of services including, mental health treatments such as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), family therapy, medication management, primary care, integrative nutritional support including genetic nutritional counseling, life coaching, massage therapy, physical therapy, infrared sauna services, community education and outreach, and more.

The Two Roads Wellness Clinic team of therapists, medical and nutrition staff, massage therapists, life coaches, physical therapists, and emotional support animals are ready to help you find an integrated approach to your wellness. To schedule an appointment, visit our contact page, to get started at one of our convenient locations in Champaign (Crossing/University Ave.,) Danville, Mahomet or Covington.

Stephanie Bower, LSW
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