Making sense of it all: The impact of sensory processing sensitivity on daily functioning of children

Being highly sensitive person negatively impacts on cognitive and psychosocial fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients: A cross-sectional, monocenter study

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a common symptom in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but its determinants are not clarified yet. Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a personality trait characterized by enhanced sensitivity towards endogenous and exogenous stimuli, and higher attention toward minimal stimuli, resulting in overarousal and fatigue.

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the association between SPS and fatigue in MS patients.

METHODS

192 consecutive MS patients (age of 43.3 ± 12.1 years; females 67.2 %; median EDSS of 2.5 (0 - 7)) underwent clinical (EDSS, age, gender), cognitive (BICAMS, Trial Making Test [TMT]), psychosocial (Beck Anxiety Inventory [BAI], Beck Depression Inventory [BDI], Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]) and sensitivity evaluation (Highly Sensitive Person [HSP]Scale). Patients were classified as HSP if the score was greater than 14. A stepwise regression model was applied to explore association between SPS and MFIS total scores and sub-scores, by accounting for age, gender, education, EDSS, Cerebral FS scores, TMT-Part A and part B scores, BAI, BDI, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

RESULTS

Total HSP was 17.2 ± 6.8 and 129 patients (67 %) were classified as highly sensitive persons (HSP). HSP patients were more female patients (p = 0.02) with a longer disease duration (p = 0.03). HSP people showed higher total MFIS score (27.6 ± 20.6 vs 13.2 ± 14.1, p < 0.001), higher physical MFIS score (p < 0.001), higher cognitive MFIS score (p < 0.001), higher psychosocial MFIS score (p < 0.001) vs non-HSP patients. Higher total MFIS was associated with SPS trait (coeff. 6.9, p = 0.006). Specifically, SPS trait was associated with higher cognitive MFIS (coeff. 5.3, p < 0.001) and higher psychosocial MFIS (coeff. 0.7, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

SPS was associated with fatigue. Since SPS could be easily and quickly assessed in clinical settings, SPS could unveil a higher propensity of a patient toward fatigue occurrence over the disease course and could provide hints for possible preventive cognitive behavior therapy.

Brief Report: Characterization of Sensory Over-Responsivity in a Broad Neurodevelopmental Concern Cohort Using the Sensory Processing Three Dimensions (SP3D) Assessment

Sensory Over-Responsivity (SOR) is an increasingly recognized challenge among children with neurodevelopmental concerns (NDC). To investigate, we characterized the incidence of auditory and tactile over-responsivity (AOR, TOR) among 82 children with NDC. We found that 70% of caregivers reported concern for their child's sensory reactions. Direct assessment further revealed that 54% of the NDC population expressed AOR, TOR, or both - which persisted regardless of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. These findings support the high prevalence of SOR as well as its lack of specificity to ASD. Additionally, AOR is revealed to be over twice as prevalent as TOR. These conclusions present several avenues for further exploration, including deeper analysis of the neural mechanisms and genetic contributors to sensory processing challenges.

Sleep reactivity mediates the relationship between sensory-processing sensitivity and insomnia symptoms severity: A cross-sectional correlational study

Sensory-processing sensitivity (SPS) is a temperamental trait that describes individual differences in sensitivity to environmental stimuli. Previous studies have shown that highly sensitive individuals are more vulnerable to stress and to sleep-related difficulties. In light of this evidence, we hypothesized that SPS is associated with an increase in insomnia symptoms and that this correlation would be mediated by increased perceived stress and sleep reactivity. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a cross-sectional study on 358 adults who completed a survey that included self-report measures of sensitivity, perceived stress, sleep reactivity, and insomnia symptoms. Correlation analysis revealed that SPS was positively related to both stress-related and sleep-related variables. We then conducted a mediation analysis, which revealed that SPS was positively related to insomnia symptoms and that this relationship was fully mediated by sleep reactivity but not mediated at all by perceived stress. The current findings suggest that sleep reactivity may contribute to the development of insomnia symptoms in highly sensitive individuals. Therefore, these results suggests that sleep reactivity should be assessed in highly sensitive individuals and that it could be important to evaluate and further study this relationship.

Investigating sensitivity through the lens of parents: validation of the parent-report version of the Highly Sensitive Child scale

Children differ in their environmental sensitivity (ES), which can be measured observationally or by self-report questionnaire. A parent-report scale represents an important tool for investigating ES in younger children but has to be psychometrically robust and valid. In the current multistudy, we validated the parent-report version of the Highly Sensitive Child (HSC-PR) scale in Italian children, evaluating its factorial structure (Study 1, N = 1,857, 6.2 years, age range: 2.6-14 years) through a multigroup Confirmatory Factory Analysis in preschoolers (n = 1,066, 4.2 years) and school-age children (n = 791, 8.8 years). We then investigated the HSC-PR relationship with established temperament traits (Study 2, N = 327, 4.3 years), before exploring whether the scale moderates the effects of parenting stress on children's emotion regulation (Study 3, N = 112, 6.5 years). We found support for a bi-factor structure in both groups, though in preschoolers minor adaptations were suggested for one item. Importantly, the HSC-PR did not fully overlap with common temperament traits and moderated the effects of parenting stress on children emotion regulation. To conclude, the HSC-PR performs well and appears to capture ES in children.

Study of the Relationship between Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Burnout Syndrome among Speech and Language Therapists

BACKGROUND

Burnout syndrome can arise due to either situational factors such as working conditions, or dispositional factors such as certain temperaments, like a high sensory processing sensitivity. We aim to address the relative absence of studies on speech-language therapists and seek to determine the role of high sensitivity for these healthcare workers in relation to burnout syndrome.

METHOD

The sample consisted of 602 female speech-language pathologists who anonymously completed a questionnaire measuring burnout (ProQOL 5th edition) and sensory processing sensitivity (HSPS-FR).

RESULTS

The results revealed that 77.41% of the participants reported moderate or high burnout scores. Furthermore, the analyses revealed that highly sensitive participants are more vulnerable to burnout than others.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the negative impact of high sensory processing sensitivity on burnout. However, according to the kind of sensitivity, we discuss the way in which highly sensitive caregivers can master this sensitivity in order to use it as a strength in their professions and to spare themselves from suffering deleterious effects, such as compassion fatigue and/or burnout.

The interplay between parenting and environmental sensitivity in the prediction of children's externalizing and internalizing behaviors during COVID-19

The interplay of parenting and environmental sensitivity on children's behavioral adjustment during, and immediately after, the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions was investigated in two longitudinal studies involving Italian preschoolers (Study 1, N = 72; 43% girls, Myears = 3.82(1.38)) and primary school children (Study 2, N = 94; 55% girls, Myears = 9.08(0.56)). Data were collected before and during the first-wave lockdown (Studies 1 and 2) and one month later (Study 1). Parental stress and parent-child closeness were measured. Markers of environmental sensitivity in children were temperamental fearfulness and Sensory Processing Sensitivity. Results showed little change in externalizing and internalizing behaviors over time, but differences emerged when considering parenting and children's environmental sensitivity. In preschoolers, greater parenting stress was related to a stronger increase in internalizing and externalizing behaviors, with children high in fearful temperament showing a more marked decrease in externalizing behaviors when parenting stress was low. In school-aged children, parent-child closeness emerged as a protective factor for internalizing and externalizing behaviors during COVID-19, with children high in Sensory Processing Sensitivity showing a marked decrease in internalizing behaviors when closeness was high. Implications for developmental theory and practice in times of pandemic are discussed.

The Predictive Relationship Between Sensory Reactivity and Depressive Symptoms in Young Autistic Children with Few to No Words

Depression and sensory reactivity are both common in autism. However, there is little understanding of the predictive relationship between these factors, or the nature of this relationship in autistic children who speak few to no words. This study set out to explore the longitudinal relationship between sensory reactivity and depressive symptoms in 33 young autistic children who speak few to no words. We found positive correlations between depressive symptoms and hyper-reactivity and sensory seeking at both timepoints, and across timepoints. We further found a bidirectional predictive relationship between depressive symptoms and sensory seeking. These results implicate sensory seeking in the development of depressive symptoms in young autistic children who use few to no words. Our findings have important implications for preventative mental health interventions, especially for those with a developmental language delay.

Personality Traits and Coping Strategies as Psychological Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Highly Sensitive Persons

Sensory-Processing Sensitivity (SPS) is the reactivity to different stimuli that occurs in some people with sufficient intensity to cause interference in daily life. There are not many previous studies that determine the influence of adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies on health-related quality of life through indicators of mental (anxiety and depression) and physical (vitality) health and functioning in their lives in different contexts (emotional role functioning). In this sense, contexts that promote the use of successful stress-coping strategies are related to the presence of positive mental health outcomes. This study focuses on the analysis of indicators of health-related quality of life in people with SPS in relation to certain personality traits and coping strategies. Participants (N = 10,525) completed HSPS-S, NEO-FFI, CSI, and SF-36. Differences were observed between men and women. Differences indicated that women had higher SPS scores compared to men and poorer health-related quality of life. The results showed significant relationships with the three indicators of health-related quality of life. Finally, it is confirmed that neuroticism and the use of maladaptive coping strategies act as risk factors, whereas extraversion, conscientiousness, and adaptive coping strategies act as protective factors. These findings highlight the need to develop prevention programs for highly sensitive persons.

What is autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)? A narrative review and comparative analysis of related phenomena

A narrative review of autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) was carried out. Definitional factors relevant to ASMR were canvassed. Related, but distinctly unique, sensorial phenomena, including frisson, synaesthesia, and misophonia were considered. Finally, the status of literature with respect to clinical outcomes, individual differences, and current research applications was evaluated. ASMR is a nascent phenomenon that has rapidly progressed in scope and depth of study throughout the past decade; a notable shift from brief-form studies to an increase in formalised trials is noted. Yet, critical questions remain unaddressed, including expectancy and placebo effects, that future research should interrogate.

Development and Validation of the Chinese Version of the Highly Sensitive Child Scale: Understanding environmental sensitivity and depressive symptoms in adolescents

Background

Environmental sensitivity (ES) is considered a significant personality factor in the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms in adolescents. However, a clear instrument that can capture ES in Chinese adolescents is lacking. The current study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) Scale for assessing adolescent ES, and explore the potential moderation effect of ES on relationships between maternal behaviors and adolescent depressive symptoms.

Methods

In total, 2,166 students from four middle and high schools and 105 depressed adolescents completed measurements of environmental sensitivity, maternal behaviors, depressive emotions, sleep duration, and academic performance.

Results

First, exploratory factor and confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the HSC scale had a good model fit with the bifactor construct, total scale reliability was adequate-good, and measurement invariances across genders and different samples were supported. Furthermore, the results confirmed that the relationship between maternal behaviors and adolescent depressive symptoms had small effects. Compared to low environmentally sensitive adolescents, high environmentally sensitive adolescents exhibited less depressive emotions and better academic performance in the context of high-quality maternal behaviors. Low-quality maternal behaviors significantly predicted increased depressive emotions and worse academic performance in adolescents when environmental sensitivity was high. Moreover, on the contrary, maternal behaviors did not influence depressive emotions and academic performance in adolescents who were less sensitive to their environment. The relationship between maternal behaviors and adolescent depressive symptoms is influenced by different levels of environmental sensitivity.

Conclusion

Our findings support the HSC scale as a comprehensive and psychometrically robust tool to measure ES in Chinese adolescents. In addition, the present study clarifies the moderating role of environmental sensitivity underlying the relationship between maternal behaviors and adolescent depressive symptoms. It is important to consider the role of ES in prevention and intervention strategies targeting adolescent depressive symptoms.

Psychological tendencies of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

A bulk of studies showed an association between stressful events and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) but failed to identify specific psychological tendencies that contribute to the patients' vulnerability to stress. The purpose of this paper is to identify psychological tendencies specific to JIA that would unravel characteristic sources of stress. The study is based on the cognitive orientation model of health, which enables us to identify these kinds of tendencies in terms of four belief types (beliefs about self, general beliefs, beliefs about norms, and goals) that refer to specific themes. This is a case-control-cohort study that included a sample of 36 patients (mean age = 12.44 years, SD = 2.97, 21 females) and 41 matched controls (mean age = 13.15 years, SD = 2.01, 22 females). The JIA cognitive-orientation questionnaire was administered, and relevant medical parameters were recorded. The belief types differentiated between the two groups, and the patients were characterized using six themes. Examples of the themes are being over-sensitive, striving for success, and not fulfilling duties well. The themes differentiated between the participants' groups with an accuracy of 89.1%. The likelihood of the patients being characterized by the themes is 3.24-9.35 times more than the controls. The psychological tendencies of JIA were discussed as generators of stress (e.g., being over-sensitive) and cognitive conflicts (e.g., the contradiction between striving for success versus not fulfilling duties well). Also, the suggested reflections of these tendencies in the health workers' and patients' relationships, such as egalitarian interaction, and non-formal communication style, were described.

HSPS-10-Short Version of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale for Students Aged 12-25 Years

The aim of the article is to present a short version of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS-10) as a useful tool for the assessment of adolescents and young adults and to improve their self-awareness. (1) Background: The original American HSPS was developed as a tool for the assessment of Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS), which is understood to be an inherited temperamental trait. The basis for the research is the concept of SPS, which may be included within the broader construct of the Environmental Sensitivity (ES) model. (2) Methods: The research used a Polish-language, short version developed on the basis of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale, where the respondents answered 10 questions in a 7-point Likert scale. (3) Results: The test results show that the Polish, HSPS-10 is a reliable and valid measurement of the SPS construct and that the results obtained using the abbreviated version indicate a three-factor structure. The structure and psychometric properties of the tool are consistent across different age groups. (4) Conclusions: HSPS-10 is a simple and quick tool for group screenings as well as the individual assessment of school students and adults aged 12-25. The developed standardized procedure allows for the early recognition and identification of changes in the SPS over the course of life.

The role of environmental sensitivity in the development of rumination and depressive symptoms in childhood: a longitudinal study

Some children are more affected than others by their upbringing due to their increased sensitivity to the environment. More sensitive children are at heightened risk for the development of internalizing problems, particularly when experiencing unsupportive parenting. However, little is known about how the interplay between children's sensitivity and parenting leads to higher levels of depressive symptoms. In the current study, we investigated the interaction between early parenting and children's sensitivity on levels of depressive symptomatology in middle childhood, exploring the role of rumination as a possible mediator in a community sample. Participants included 196 USA resident families, from a middle class and mostly European-American background, and their healthy children, followed up from age 3 until 9 and 12 years. Environmental sensitivity was assessed observationally when children were 3 years old. Parenting style was based on parent-report at the age of 3 years. When children were nine, they completed questionnaires on rumination and depressive symptoms (repeated at 12 years). Analyses were run applying a Bayesian approach. Children's sensitivity interacted with permissive parenting in predicting rumination at age 9. Rumination, in turn, was associated with depressive symptoms at age 9 and, to a lesser extent, at age 12. No relevant interactions emerged for authoritative and authoritarian parenting. Sensitive children may be at heightened risk for internalizing problems when exposed to a permissive parenting style. Permissive parenting was associated with increased ruminative coping strategies in sensitive children which, in turn, predicted higher levels of depression. Hence, rumination emerged as an important cognitive risk factor for the development of depressive symptoms in sensitive children.

The lived experience of parenting a child with sensory sensitivity and picky eating

“Picky eating” is a common behaviour seen in childhood in both clinical and nonclinical populations. Sensory processing difficulties have been repeatedly associated with food refusal and picky eating behaviours. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of parents/caregivers who have a child displaying both sensory processing differences and picky eating behaviours utilising Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Participants were recruited from social media support groups for parents of picky eating children. Pre‐selection criteria utilised an adapted short sensory profile questionnaire to ensure the children displayed probable/definite taste‐smell, audio‐visual and tactile sensory sensitivities. Twelve participants fulfilling the required criteria were interviewed face to face utilising a semi‐structured interview schedule. Interviews were transcribed and analysed following IPA guidelines and three common themes are presented here: Battling for control of the sensory environment, Living with stigma and, disapproval, and Staying positive and moving forward. The findings show the very considerable day‐to‐day challenges of parenting a child with sensory issues with food, including a lack of support and criticism from others. It was apparent that the parents in our study gradually adopted a positive and accepting attitude to their child's eating. This acceptance allowed them to have positive interactions around food with their child such as cooking and playing with food, suggesting that experiential activities serve an important purpose in this population. Further research should examine whether parental interventions based on acceptance of child eating behaviour, and commitment to gradual positive food interactions would be the best strategy to support parents and children.

Picky eating in children with sensory processing difference led to specific behaviours around food, for example, the identification of very small sensory differences in foods, and between different brands of the same foods. This caused disruption at family mealtimes, extra food preparation work, and judgement from others.

Parents all expressed a need for better awareness and support from health professionals and the wider public. Those who used online support groups found great comfort and advice from parents experiencing similar problems

Parents seemed to go on a journey of acceptance of their child's behaviour, and tried to adopt positive food parenting strategies. In particular, they used experiential learning strategies such as playing with, cooking with, and shopping for food which allowed them to interact with their child and food in a positive way.

Adaptation of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSP) and Psychometric Properties of Reduced Versions of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (R-HSP Scale) in Spanish Nursing Students

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) can be defined as a personality characteristic that includes the individual characteristics of sensitivity towards endogenous and exogenous stimuli. The differences in environmental sensitivity can play a crucial role in the academic context of health professionals, thus defining it as an area of research that must be addressed. The reduced scale for highly sensitive people (HSP) is a short (16 items) and adapted version of the original scale for highly sensitive people (HSP). This study aims to analyze the psychometric properties of reduced versions of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (r-HSP Scale) in Spanish nursing students. Once the questionnaire was translated, its psychometric characteristics were analyzed. The Spanish version of the r-HSP scale was administered to 284 university students enrolled in the Nursing Degree. The results from the factorial analysis confirmed the structure of sensitiveness of six factors in our sample. This structure included the following dimensions: (1) Instability, (2) Surroundings, (3) Interaction with others, (4) Sensoperception, (5) Sensitivity, and (6) Insecurity. Additionally, the Cronbach's α values indicated that the Spanish version of the r-HSP scale had an adequate reliability (α = 0.702). The r-HSP scale is defined as a reliable, valid, and agile replica of the original structure of sensitivity in Spanish university students.

Cross-disorder comparison of sensory over-responsivity in chronic tic disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder

BACKGROUND

Sensory over-responsivity (SOR) refers to excessively intense and/or prolonged behavioral responses to environmental stimuli typically perceived as non-aversive. SOR is prevalent in several neurodevelopmental disorders, including chronic tic disorders (CTDs) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Few studies have examined the extent and clinical correlates of SOR across disorders, limiting insights into the phenomenon's transdiagnostic clinical and biological relevance. Such cross-disorder comparisons are of particular interest for CTDs and OCD given their frequent co-occurrence.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to compare the magnitude of SOR between adults with CTD and adults with OCD and to identify the clinical factors most strongly associated with SOR across these disorders.

METHODS

We enrolled 207 age- and sex-matched participants across four diagnostic categories: CTD without OCD (designated "CTD/OCD-"; n = 37), CTD with OCD ("CTD/OCD+"; n = 32), OCD without tic disorder ("OCD"; n = 69), and healthy controls (n = 69). Participants completed a self-report battery of rating scales assessing SOR (Sensory Gating Inventory, SGI), obsessive-compulsive symptoms (Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, DOCS), inattention and hyperactivity (Adult ADHD Self-Report Screening Scale for DSM-5, ASRS-5), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9). CTD participants were also administered the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS). To examine between-group differences in SOR, we compared SGI score across all groups and between pairs of groups. To examine the relationship of SOR with other clinical factors, we performed multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

CTD/OCD-, CTD/OCD+, and OCD participants were 86.7%, 87.6%, and 89.5%, respectively, more likely to have higher SGI total scores than healthy controls. SGI total score did not differ between CTD/OCD-, CTD/OCD+, and OCD groups. In the regression model of log-transformed SGI total score, OCD diagnosis, DOCS score, and ASRS-5 score each contributed significantly to model goodness-of-fit, whereas CTD diagnosis and YGTSS total tic score did not.

CONCLUSION

SOR is prevalent in adults with CTD and in adults with OCD but does not significantly differ in magnitude between these disorders. Across CTD, OCD, and healthy control adult populations, SOR is independently associated with both obsessive-compulsive and ADHD symptoms, suggesting a transdiagnostic relationship between these sensory and psychiatric manifestations. Future cross-disorder, longitudinal, and translational research is needed to clarify the role and prognostic import of SOR in CTDs, OCD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Youth Sensitivity in a Pandemic: The Relationship Between Sensory Processing Sensitivity, Internalizing Problems, COVID-19 and Parenting

The personality trait sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is an established risk factor for the development of internalizing problems. Highly sensitive adolescents react stronger to environmental cues including parenting environment and stressful life events. The aim of the current study was to examine if the perceived impact of COVID-19, mediates the link between SPS and internalizing problems. In addition, it was tested if parenting style moderates the mediating effect of perceived COVID-19 impact between SPS and internalizing problems among adolescents. The study had a cross- sectional design and data were collected between April-July 2020 during the first lockdown in the Netherlands. Participants were 404 adolescents aged 9-18 years (M_age = 13.49). Questionnaires were administered online to assess SPS (Highly Sensitive Child Scale), parenting style (Parenting Style Inventory-II), internalizing problems (Patient Health Questionnaire-4) and COVID-19 pandemic impact (COVID-19 impact scale). The SPSS macro PROCESS was used to test the mediation model of perceived COVID-19 impact and the moderated mediation model with parenting style as a moderator. A relationship was found between SPS and internalizing problems which is partly mediated by the COVID-19 impact. The moderating effect of parenting style was not found. These findings provide insight into the effect the pandemic has had on highly sensitive adolescents. Further research is needed to develop and test interventions to support sensitive youth and thus possibly prevent the development of internalizing problems.

Sensory-Processing Sensitivity and Pathways to Depression and Aggression: The Mediating Role of Trait Emotional Intelligence and Decision-Making Style-A Pilot Study

While the link between sensory-processing sensitivity (SPS) and internalizing symptoms has been well-established, a link to externalizing problems is still to be explored. This study aimed to further examine the relation between SPS and behavioral problems by testing the potential mediating roles of trait emotional intelligence (TEI) and decision-making styles. Pathway analyses were conducted on data from 268 community sample participants (M_age = 25.81, SD = 2.41, 61.2% females). Results indicated gender differences in the pathway level outcomes of SPS, as well as potential partial mediators in men and women. SPS both directly and via the mediating effects of the well-being factor (TEI) and avoidant decision-making influenced depression, regardless of gender. Direct effects on aggression were, however, obtained only in the male sample. Indirect effects of SPS on aggression were found in spontaneous decision-making for men and in the self-control and sociability factors of TEI for women. Directions for future research were discussed.

Autism and the Right to a Hypersensitivity-Friendly Workspace

Many individuals on the autism spectrum are hypersensitive to certain sensory stimuli. For this group, as well as for non-autistic individuals with sensory processing disorders, being exposed to e.g. fluorescent lights, perfume odours, and various sounds and noises can be real torment. In this article, I consider the normative implications of such offence for the design of office spaces, which is a topic that has not received any attention from philosophers. After identifying different ways in which the senses of hypersensitive workers might be protected within these spaces, I show that many of such accommodations can be made at reasonable cost, before arguing that doing so ought to be a legal requirement.

Individual Differences and Susceptibility to Burnout Syndrome: Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Its Relation to Exhaustion and Disengagement

The aim of the study is to analyze the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and occupational burnout. This analysis makes it possible to explore the problem of sensitivity as a predictor of burnout syndrome and to discuss adequate coping strategies in the work environment to improve employee well-being. The sample consists of 516 employees (236 women; M_age = 28.97, SD = 6.62 years). The Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS; 27 items) was used to measure sensory processing sensitivity; the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI; 16 items) was used to measure exhaustion and disengagement from work. The analysis of sensitivity is based on the ‘DOES’ model of a highly sensitive person, which includes depth of processing (D), overstimulation (O), emotional reactivity and empathy (E), and sensing the subtle (S). Burnout due to exhaustion and disengagement is analyzed. The factor analysis of the HSPS confirms its three-factor structure. The results indicate significant relationships between sensory processing sensitivity and burnout symptoms. However, the influence of specific aspects of sensitivity on the burnout problem varies: the results indicate that higher emotional reactivity is linked to worse burnout symptoms, but sensing the subtle shows the opposite effect and may be a protective factor against exhaustion. Significant gender differences were observed [F(511,1) = 136.63, p < 0.001; η² = 0.21]; women revealed a significantly higher level of general sensitivity (M_women = 4.66, SD = 0.62) as compared to men (M_men = 4.01; SD = 0.64). Awareness of one’s high sensory-processing sensitivity and its potential outcomes in the work environment may be essential in order to implement appropriate regulatory strategies. Proactive strategies aimed at reducing prolonged emotional overload may be critical for highly sensitive employees. Recognizing high sensitivity may reduce burnout symptoms and improve well-being at work.

Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire: A Psychometric Evaluation and Associations with Experiencing the COVID-19 Pandemic

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a common human neurobiological trait that is related to many areas of human life. This trait has recently received increased public interest. However, solid scientific research on SPS is lagging behind. Progress in this area is also hindered by a lack of comprehensive research tools suitable for a rapid assessment of SPS. Thus, the aim of this study was to offer a newly developed tool, the Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire (SPSQ), and to assess its psychometric properties and associations with emotional and relational variables measured during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. We found the tool to have good psychometric characteristics: high temporal stability (r = 0.95) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.92; McDonald’s ω = 0.92). The fit of the SPSQ bi-factor model was satisfactory: χ² (88.0) = 506.141; p < 0.001; CFI = 0.993; TLI = 0.990; RMSEA = 0.070; SRMR = 0.039. Testing of configural, metric, scalar and strict invariance suggested that the SPSQ assesses SPS equivalently between males and females. The scale’s validity was supported via a strong association with an existing SPS measure. Further, we observed higher total SPSQ scores among women, students and religious respondents, and we found that more sensitive respondents reported higher feelings of anxiety and more deterioration in relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this study also identifies people with this trait as being potentially more vulnerable during periods of an increased presence of global stressors.

Mediation role of alexithymia, sensory processing sensitivity and emotional-mental processes between childhood trauma and adult psychopathology: a self-report study

BACKGROUND

There is overwhelming evidence for a strong association between childhood trauma and adult psychopathology. This study aimed to investigate the mediation roles of alexithymia, sensory processing sensitivity, and emotional-mental processes in the relationship between childhood traumas and adult psychopathology.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 337 people (78.9% female, 21.1% male) aged between 20 and 64 years. Participants filled the scales online via a Google form. Reading Mind in the Eyes (EYES), Sensory Processing Sensitivity Scale (SPS), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-26), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) were used. PROCESS (Model 4) macro was used to examine the mediating role of sensory processing sensitivity, alexithymia, and the EYES test results in the relationship between childhood trauma and psychopathology.

RESULTS

The results of mediation analysis demonstrated that sensory processing sensitivity and alexithymia mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and adult psychopathology. However, the EYES test (mentalization) did not mediate in this relationship.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that childhood traumas may relate to more psychological symptoms in individuals with high sensory processing sensitivity and alexithymia. Our study may contribute to the understanding of what may lead to a person's vulnerability to experiencing psychological symptoms after childhood trauma. It may be crucial that future treatment and intervention programs should include sensory sensitivity and alexithymia. Sensory processing sensitivity and alexithymia can be examined in the treatment of psychological problems of individuals who have experienced childhood trauma.

Early Sensory and Temperament Features in Infants Born to Mothers With Asthma: A Cross-Sectional Study

Maternal asthma in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Adverse perinatal outcomes may result in poorer infant developmental outcomes, such as temperament and sensory difficulties. This study aimed to (1) assess differences in temperament and sensory features between infants born to mothers with and without asthma and (2) investigate differences in these infant behaviours as a function of maternal asthma severity and asthma control. Mothers completed the Carey Temperament Scales and the Sensory Profile 2 at either 6 weeks, 6 months, or 12 months postpartum. Overall, we observed no significant differences between infants born to mothers with and without asthma in their temperament or sensory features; scores in both domains fell within the normative range. More infants in the asthma group, however, were reported to be highly distractible. When compared with normative data, infants in both groups were reported to have poor predictability of biological functions and fewer infants engaged in low levels of sensory behaviours. Some infants were observed to experience difficulties with hyper-reactivity within several domains. Maternal asthma severity and control during pregnancy were not linked to significant differences between infant temperament and sensory features. The present findings indicate that infants born to mothers with asthma are not at an increased risk overall for temperament or sensory difficulties, compared to control infants. However, a subset of infants across both groups may be at risk for attention or sensory hyper-reactivity difficulties. Further research into the developmental outcomes of infants born to mothers with asthma is warranted.

Classification of Qualitative Fieldnotes Collected During Quantitative Sensory Testing: A Step Towards the Development of a New Mixed Methods Approach in Pain Research

PURPOSE

Quantitative sensory testing (QST) is a standardized method to assess somatosensory function. The collection of qualitative information, during the QST procedure, could be an interesting way to facilitate the characterization of altered sensory perception and the identification of different pain phenotypes. The aims of this study were 1) to classify qualitative fieldnotes of sensory abnormalities collected during an independent QST study, and 2) to generate a qualitative interview guide that could be included in the traditional QST procedure as a step towards the implementation of a mixed methods approach.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

QST data were collected from 48 chronic neuropathic pain patients treated with spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Three body areas, with or without SCS, were tested: the painful limb targeted by SCS, the contralateral area, and the ipsilateral upper limb. After each trial of each QST modality, patients were encouraged to report any sensory abnormalities they could identify with a pain quality scale or using their own words.

RESULTS

Qualitative self-reported sensory abnormalities were dichotomized into two groups: altered sensory intensities and altered sensory perceptions. Altered sensory intensities were classified as sensory loss or sensory gain subgroups. Altered sensory perceptions were classified as paresthesia and dysesthesia subgroups Overall, 630 qualitative fieldnotes of altered sensations were collected: 385 on the painful limb, 173 at the contralateral area, and 72 at the ipsilateral upper limb. Based on these qualitative data, we propose a standardized method to collect qualitative data involving 9 open- and close-ended questions and 21 codes.

CONCLUSION

Our findings have highlighted the value of qualitative sensory evaluation during QST and constitute an important milestone in the development of a mixed methods protocol in phenotyping research.

The relationship between sensory reactivity differences and mental health symptoms in preschool-age autistic children

There is growing evidence for an association between sensory reactivity and mental health in autism. This study set out to explore the relationship between sensory reactivity and mental health in preschool-aged autistic children. In total 54 preschool-aged children with an Autism Spectrum Condition took part. Sensory and mental health symptoms were obtained from the Sensory Processing Scale Inventory, Sensory Assessment of Neurodevelopmental Differences and the Behavioral Assessment System for Children-3. Correlational analyses showed a relationship between sensory reactivity and mental health symptoms in autistic preschool-aged children. Results also indicate divergence in sensory-mental health profiles between autistic preschool-aged children who are verbal and those who use few to no words. For the first time this study has revealed a relationship between sensory hyper-reactivity, as well as sensory seeking, and mental health symptoms outside of anxiety in autism. Of note, this relationship between sensory hyper-reactivity and internalizing symptoms appears to be driven by those with few to no words. This has implications for both research and clinical interventions, in particular for our understanding of the factors underlying mental health symptoms in different autistic phenotypes, as well as the possible role of functional communication in mitigating the development of mental health symptoms. LAY SUMMARY: The present study found that in autistic preschoolers, externalizing mental health symptoms, such as hyperactivity, are related to sensory seeking (seeking out or being fascinated with sensory stimuli), and internalizing mental health symptoms, such as depression, are related to sensory hyper-reactivity (sensitivity to sensory stimuli). Our results also show that whilst the relationships between externalizing symptoms and sensory seeking is seen across participants, the relationship between internalizing symptoms and sensory hyper-reactivity was only seen in autistic preschoolers who used few to no words. This has important implications for the assessment of sensory differences as part of more rigorous mental health assessments, especially in autistic people who use few to no words.

In silico Gene Set and Pathway Enrichment Analyses Highlight Involvement of Ion Transport in Cholinergic Pathways in Autism: Rationale for Nutritional Intervention

Food is the primary human source of choline, an essential precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which has a central role in signaling pathways that govern sensorimotor functions. Most Americans do not consume their recommended amount of dietary choline, and populations with neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be particularly vulnerable to consequences of choline deficiency. This study aimed to identify a relationship between ASD and cholinergic signaling through gene set enrichment analysis and interrogation of existing database evidence to produce a systems biology model. In gene set enrichment analysis, two gene ontologies were identified as overlapping for autism-related and for cholinergic pathways-related functions, both involving ion transport regulation. Subsequent modeling of ion transport intensive cholinergic signaling pathways highlighted the importance of two genes with autism-associated variants: GABBR1, which codes for the gamma aminobutyric acid receptor (GABAB 1), and KCNN2, which codes for calcium-activated, potassium ion transporting SK2 channels responsible for membrane repolarization after cholinergic binding/signal transmission events. Cholinergic signal transmission pathways related to these proteins were examined in the Pathway Studio environment. The ion transport ontological associations indicated feasibility of a dietary choline support as a low-risk therapeutic intervention capable of modulating cholinergic sensory signaling in autism. Further research at the intersection of dietary status and sensory function in autism is warranted.

Highly sensitive adolescents: The relationship between weekly life events and weekly socioemotional well-being

Recent research into Person × Environment interaction has supported the view that sensitivity to environmental influences is a susceptibility factor rather than a vulnerability factor. Given this perspective, this study examined the role of the adolescent's sensory-processing sensitivity in the context of weekly life events and weekly socioemotional well-being. In the study, 114 adolescents repeatedly self-reported their sensitivity, recent life events, and recent socioemotional well-being in four surveys at one-week intervals. The results suggested the shape of Sensitivity × Life Events interaction significantly varied from week to week, which is consistent with the vantage sensitivity and diathesis-stress framework. In specific weeks, adolescents with high sensitivity are more likely to benefit from positive events than those with low sensitivity. These sensitive adolescents can be described as developmentally susceptibility rather than vulnerability.

Psychometric Properties of the Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist: English Version

Background

Sensory processing supports children's development and abilities to participate in activities across contexts. Self-regulation skills may influence how children process various sensory experiences in daily life activities. The Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist (SPSRC) is a 130-item caregiver-reported checklist, covering children's essential sensory processing and self-regulation performance in daily activities.

Objectives

This study examines the psychometric properties of the SPSRC (English version) in measuring the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities of children.

Methods

A preliminary field testing of the SPSRC-English was conducted in a sample of n = 194 children (164 without disability and 30 with a disability) to evaluate its reliability and validity properties.

Results

The SPSRC-English was shown to have high internal consistency and test-retest reliability; and good discriminant, structural, and criterion validity in the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities of children with and without disability ages 4-12 years.

Conclusion

The current study provides initial evidence on the reliability and validity of SPSRC-English in measuring the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities in children with and without a disability. The SPSRC-English may provide salient information supporting the understanding of sensory processing difficulties among children.

The relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder traits: A spectrum approach

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. The Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS) scale and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) were administered to a non-clinical group of 274 participants recruited from a university volunteers list. We found a highly significant positive correlation between number of self-reported ADHD traits and sensory sensitivity. Furthermore, ADHD traits and age were predictors of SPS and exploratory factor analysis revealed a factor that combined ADHD traits and items from the HSPS. The psychometric properties of the HSPS were also examined supporting the unidimensional nature of the concept. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify a positive relationship between HSPS and ADHD traits in the general population. Our results further support recent findings suggesting abnormal sensory processing in ADHD.

The perceived meaning of occupations among children: correlations with children's socio-emotional characteristics and executive functions

INTRODUCTION

Participation in meaningful occupations within our everyday environments contributes to health and wellbeing. Therefore, it is important to study perceived meaning and its inter-related factors. The perceived meaning of occupations is the emotional and cognitive qualities people attach to their occupations. However, research on the perceived meaning of occupations among children is limited. The meaning of occupations may be related to personal factors concerning the child. Hence, this study aimed to assess the correlations between socio-emotional characteristics and executive functions of typically developing children and their perceived meaning of occupations-value, challenge, and sense of time and autonomy.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study comprising 80 children (6-13 years old) and their parents was conducted. The parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function. The children completed the Perceived Meaning of Occupation Questionnaire and the Verbal Working Memory test.

RESULTS

Children with higher scores on the SDQ-internalised behaviours and lower working memory-perceived their everyday activities as more challenging (r = .300, r = -.244, p < .05, respectively). Children with higher scores on the SDQ-prosocial behaviours-attached higher value to their everyday activities (r = .23, p < .05). However, increases in executive function difficulties were found to decrease the perceived value (r = .24, p < .05) and to alter the perceived sense of time (r = . 27, p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The meaning children attach to their everyday activities changes when they experience socio-emotional and executive difficulties. Therefore, to inspire positive meaning of occupations among children, practitioners should consider the child's socio-emotional and cognitive strengths and difficulties.

Review: Exteroceptive Sensory Abnormalities in Childhood and Adolescent Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Critical Review

OBJECTIVE

Childhood anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are defined by fear, worry, and uncertainty, but there is also evidence that affected children possess exteroceptive sensory abnormalities. These sensory features may often instigate symptoms and cause significant distress and functional impairment. In addition, a purported class of conditions known as "sensory processing disorders" may significantly overlap with childhood anxiety and OCD, which provides further support for a connection between abnormal sensation and fear-based psychopathology.

METHOD

The current review was conducted to synthesize and to critically evaluate the existing research on exteroceptive sensory abnormalities in childhood anxiety and OCD. Because of the paucity of research in this area, studies with adult populations were also briefly reviewed.

RESULTS

The review found significant support for the notion that sensory abnormalities are common in children with anxiety disorders and OCD, but there are significant limitations to research in this area that prevent firm conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Potential avenues for future research on sensory features of pediatric anxiety and OCD are discussed.

[Are there indications of "sensory processing sensitivity" (SPS) in atopically predisposed persons? - An examination of parents of children with atopic dermatitis in inpatient treatment]

Are there indications of "sensory processing sensitivity" (SPS) in atopically predisposed persons? - An examination of parents of children with atopic dermatitis in inpatient treatment Objectives: Clinically, the parents of children with atopic dermatitis often give the impression of increased sensitivity. It was examined, whether the parents show characteristics of "sensory processing sensitivity" (SPS) such as extraordinary perception and processing, hypersensitivity to external stimuli, increased excitability and excessive demands.

METHODS

64 parents of children with atopic dermatitis were therefore examined with the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (Aron 1996) and three proven questionnaires. Parents with atopic disposition and children with atopic dermatitis (n = 44) were compared with nonatopic parents (n = 20). In addition, atopic parents of slightly ill children (n = 24) and atopic parents of severely ill children (n = 20) were compared with non-atopic parents of children with atopic dermatitis (n = 20).

RESULTS

The comparison of 44 parents with atopic disposition with 20 non-atopic parents showed a significantly higher sensitivity, excitability, a stronger propensity for esoteric thinking and a reduced frustration tolerance in the parents with atopic disposition. They showed significant differences in three other characteristics: the mood was more depressed, life satisfaction was lower and stress increased. There were no significant differences between atopically predisposed parents of slightly ill children and atopically predisposed parents of seriously ill children.

CONCLUSIONS

Atopically predisposed parents of children with atopic dermatitis show properties according to the construct of "sensory processing sensitivity" (SPS). The influence of these properties on children with atopic dermatitis, in particular the increased responsiveness (Aron & Aron 1997, Boterberg & Warreyn 2016), should be investigated in further studies.

The Contribution of Sensory Sensitivity to Emotional Lability in Children with ADHD Symptoms

Emotional lability and sensory sensitivity have been shown to contribute to the overall clinical picture in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; Dunn & Bennett, 2002; Sobanski et al., 2010). Further, both of these characteristics have been individually demonstrated to contribute to poorer quality of life, increased functional impairment, and poorer treatment response (Anastopoulos et al., 2010; Boterberg & Warreyn, 2016). However, to date, no study has evaluated the relationship among all three of these factors. The current study hypothesized that increased sensory sensitivity would moderate the relationship between hyperactive/impulsive symptoms of ADHD and emotional lability in youth. Results indicate that heightened sensory sensitivity strengthens the relationship between hyperactive/impulsive symptoms of ADHD and emotional lability in children with three or more clinically impairing ADHD symptoms. This dimensional approach was taken in accordance with growing evidence that even children with sub-threshold ADHD experience significant functional impairment and high rates of sensory sensitivity (Hong et al., 2014). These findings suggest that clinicians treating children with ADHD symptoms and emotional lability should consider assessing for sensory sensitivity as integration of multi-sensory techniques or referral to concurrent occupational therapy may significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for these children and their families.

Perception is key? Does perceptual sensitivity and parenting behavior predict children's reactivity to others' emotions?

When interacting with other people, both children's biological predispositions and past experiences play a role in how they will process and respond to social-emotional cues. Children may partly differ in their reactions to such cues because they differ in the threshold for perceiving such cues in general. Theoretically, perceptual sensitivity (i.e., the amount of detection of slight, low-intensity stimuli from the external environment independent of visual and auditory ability) might, therefore, provide us with specific information on individual differences in susceptibility to the environment. However, the temperament trait of perceptual sensitivity is highly understudied. In an experiment, we tested whether school-aged children's (N=521, 52.5% boys, M_age=9.72years, SD=1.51) motor (facial electromyography) and affective (self-report) reactivities to dynamic facial expressions and vocalizations is predicted by their (parent-reported) perceptual sensitivity. Our results indicate that children's perceptual sensitivity predicts their motor reactivity to both happy and angry expressions and vocalizations. In addition, perceptual sensitivity interacted with positive (but not negative) parenting behavior in predicting children's motor reactivity to these emotions. Our findings suggest that perceptual sensitivity might indeed provide us with information on individual differences in reactivity to social-emotional cues, both alone and in interaction with parenting behavior. Because perceptual sensitivity focuses specifically on whether children perceive cues from their environment, and not on whether these cues cause arousal and/or whether children are able to regulate this arousal, it should be considered that perceptual sensitivity lies at the root of such individual differences.

Auditory evoked potential could reflect emotional sensitivity and impulsivity

Emotional sensitivity and impulsivity could cause interpersonal conflicts and neuropsychiatric problems. Serotonin is correlated with behavioral inhibition and impulsivity. This study evaluated whether the loudness dependence of auditory evoked potential (LDAEP), a potential biological marker of central serotonergic activity, could reflect emotional sensitivity and impulsivity. A total of 157 healthy individuals were recruited, who performed LDAEP and Go/Nogo paradigms during electroencephalogram measurement. Barratt impulsivity scale (BIS), Conners’ Adult ADHD rating scale (CAARS), and affective lability scale (ALS) were evaluated. Comparison between low and high LDAEP groups was conducted for behavioural, psychological, and event-related potential (ERP) measures. The high LDAEP group showed significantly increased BIS, a subscale of the CAARS, ALS, and false alarm rate of Nogo stimuli compared to the low LDAEP group. LDAEP showed significant positive correlations with the depression scale, ALS scores, subscale of the CAARS and Nogo-P3 amplitude. In the source activity of Nogo-P3, the cuneus, lingual gyrus, and precentral gyrus activities were significantly increased in the high LDAEP group. Our study revealed that LDAEP could reflect emotional sensitivity and impulsivity. LDAEP, an auditory evoked potential could be a useful tool to evaluate emotional regulation.