Neurophysiological signatures of sensory-processing sensitivity

The role of environmental sensitivity in the experience and processing of emotions: implications for well-being

Several theories suggest that people differ significantly in their environmental sensitivity, defined as the capacity to perceive and process information about the environment. More sensitive people, who make up between 25% and 30% of the population, are not only more negatively affected by adverse experiences but also benefit disproportionately from positive ones, in line with differential susceptibility theory. Heightened emotional reactivity has been identified as one of the key markers of sensitivity. However, the current understanding of the relationship between sensitivity and the experience and processing of emotions remains limited. In the current paper we propose a new conceptual framework for the multiple ways in which environmental sensitivity may impact on different aspects of the experience and processing of emotions. This includes heightened perception of emotions, increased emotional reactivity, as well as the important role of emotion regulation for the well-being of highly sensitive people. In addition, we also consider rearing experiences in shaping sensitivity and emotion regulation. The reviewed empirical studies largely support the conceptual model but more research is needed to explore the dynamics between sensitivity and emotions further. Finally, we discuss several implications for well-being before making a case for the inclusion of individual differences in environmental sensitivity in affective science. This article is part of the theme issue 'Sensing and feeling: an integrative approach to sensory processing and emotional experience'.

Higher sensory processing sensitivity: increased cautiousness in attentional processing in conflict contexts

While interest grows in investigating sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), few studies have employed objective behavioural measures to directly explore the underlying attentional processing. The present study utilised two modified versions of the Emotional Attention Networks Test Integration (E-ANTI) to investigate whether and how emotion interacts with three attentional networks associated with SPS when emotion information was target-irrelevant (Experiment 1) and target-relevant (Experiment 2), respectively. Both experiments involved four manipulated within-subject factors: Signal (tone vs. no-tone), Cue Validity (valid vs. invalid), Flanker Congruency (congruent vs. incongruent), and Emotion (fearful vs. happy). Linear mixed models were employed, and three attentional networks were successfully captured in both experiments. In Experiment 1, we observed that as SPS increased, the difference in reaction time between valid and invalid cue conditions decreased, especially in incongruent trials. Participants rated fearful faces as more arousing than happy faces as SPS increased. In Experiment 2, we found that slow responding to fearful faces reduced as SPS increased, particularly in incongruent trials. The observed effects related to SPS in both experiments were particularly pronounced in incongruent conditions, suggesting that SPS may modulate attentional processes in high-conflict situations. Overall, higher SPS may be associated with increased cautiousness in conflict contexts.

The development and validation of the "SENSE" - Sensory and Behavioral Modulation Questionnaire for adults

Sensory modulation is critical for interacting with the physical and social environment. When sensory input from the environment is not properly perceived and modulated, it may elevate arausability, avoidant behavior, impair function and wellbeing. Sensory modulation difficulties (SMD) are mainly reported during childhood and are related to neurodevelopmental conditions such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). SMD in adulthood further deteriorate function and emotional status, hence should be screened and treated. Nonetheless, relevant measures of SMD for adults are limited. This study aims to establish the psychometric properties of the "SENSE" - Sensory and Behavioral Modulation Questionnaire for adults. Based on theoretical/clinical knowledge the SENSE measures sensitivity/arousability, habituation and avoidance. After establishing content and face validity, 663 participants aged 18-65 completed a sociodemographic and health questionnaire, the Adult ADHD Scale-5 (ASRS-5), the SENSE and the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS). Factor analysis approved the determination of SENSE scales. Medium- high internal consistency was found. SENSE discriminated between adults with/without ADHD and correlated with HSPS scores, confirming concurrent validity. CONCLUSIONS: SENSE has good psychometric properties and may be feasible for screening sensory-behavioral modulation difficulties in adults. Studies should further examine SENSE applicability to clinical populations.