HSP - Highly Sensitive People

[Vagabond]

According to this (http://www.sensitiveperson.com/attribts.htm) site....

Attributes and Characteristics of Being Highly Sensitive

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited. They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.

Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.

Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.

Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.

Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.

Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.

Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.

Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.

Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.

Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.


Anyone of you identifies? The HSP issue was mentioned on another board and it scared the hell out of me that I could identify with every point of this list. Also, do any of you experience empathy? How do you deal with it? I know this looks like two different topics, but they are not necessarily so... I have started to think that being a HSP is even worse than being an Introvert as far as finding understanding is concerned... also, I would have thought that Feelers and non-Fives would be more likely to be HSP, but it looks like Fives (http://www.highlysensitivesouls.com/enneagram.htm) are the most likely to be HSP, while INTPs are among the highest ones according to this (http://www.aimoo.com/forum/polls.cfm?id=319094&type=categories&parentid=11285&CategoryID=11285) poll. (I am not sure one can see this poll though unless they are members of the board... hmm).

So... feedback. Do you relate...?

[nobarcode]

From the site:

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited. They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. (aware, but not specifically always able to define) Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity. (yep)
Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter( true, but it’s organized clutter) and/or chaos(unless I created it). They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them (absolutely the case).Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone. (yes)Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress. (yes)Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work. (I’m fortunate enough to be able to avoid THAT whole process)
Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights. (I’m going to think about this one. It seems far too vague…..Almost irrelevant)
Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media. ( I don’t identify with the “entertainment media” at all. But I think this would make a cool thread unto itself.)
Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial. (……..)
Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings. (Is this not talking about honesty of self instead? I wonder.
Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability. (This is absolutely the case with me. I am not highly aware of my nutritional requirements, but “vitally” aware of them.)

[paladinoflunaria]

Modern society emphasizes a stoic culture? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

[paladinoflunaria]

I fits me pretty well, though, especially when it comes to pretty girls (that aren't blatently shallow). :blush:

[Odyssey]

Ay!

I love having the interesting and valuable personality characteristics associated with HSP, but sometimes it's so darn stressful.

Stress includes: overwhelming negative-energy empathy from others, loud sudden noises, strong odors like lab chemicals, harsh music, and on and on... and when I'm in a social environment I feel like all four MBTI functions are in the highest gear, and therefore 8 hours of social environment [high school!] is exhausting!

(I've been lucky enough to develop nonrational optimism & resilience & self-esteem & self-assertion - and several more psychological tricks - in order to cope and help make sure my needs are met.)

~Odyssey

[nobarcode]

Ay!

I love having the interesting and valuable personality characteristics associated with HSP, but sometimes it's so darn stressful.

Stress includes: overwhelming negative-energy empathy from others, loud sudden noises, strong odors like lab chemicals, harsh music, and on and on... and when I'm in a social environment I feel like all four MBTI functions are in the highest gear, and therefore 8 hours of social environment [high school!] is exhausting!

(I've been lucky enough to develop nonrational optimism & resilience & self-esteem & self-assertion - and several more psychological tricks - in order to cope and help make sure my needs are met.)

~Odyssey
from the link:

Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter

This whole sentiment brings up a strong aversion for me. And it is exhausting as well. Really, I just get so overwhelmed and shut down. I still function, but I'm gone. Direct lighting offends my senses, even refracted flourescent lights. Combine that with smells....If I go to a department store, an anxiety attack precedes me when I have to enter throught the cosmetic section with what seems like 50 billion different scents. I hate noise (unless expected or self-induced) and it was interesting to me in the "how do you sleep" post on the old forum how many people refered to needing absolute silence in order to sleep. As opposed to needing the distraction like having the T.V. on. Same goes for music. I love it, but listening to it is a solitary activity. Background music and music as a distraction or social activity is harsh. Is harsh music defined by the music itself to the rest of you?

All of the above is one of the most difficult things for me to explain to "other" people as well. Most times I just accept their misunderstanding of my obvious reaction rather than try to explain.

Odyssey, will you explain some of your "tricks" in more depth?

[Avengardh]

Hn, well, crap.

Yeah...muchly noted, I think I fit several of the points.
I specially agree with the fact that when someone is being negative, it sucks the energy out of me.

I have had to present myself as something else to deal with this, although I have been working on refining the image quite well, I really have two sides to myself (as much as I would like to have more, yay) as I am "supposed" to have as a gemini.

What people see most of the time is an emotionless, expressionless person, who, if asked, will give out advice and emphatize/symphatize with you.
I know, it sucks, but sometimes it helps avoid people.


~*Aven*~

[Johnny]

I can relate to many of the HSP traits listed too, but I'm having a hard time convincing myself I'm HSP. I'm pretty tenacious when it comes to thinking about and researching something that I want to understand, and I'm not always open to interruptions or distractions during those times. But I think my introversion is more about wanting to work things out in my mind before I move forward and less about being over-sensitive. I think I'm quite oblivious to much, and I feel it's a weakness of mine. Plus, clutter, chaos, and spicy foods don't really bother me as much as a lack of cleanliness.

[Vagabond]

But what about empathy guys? Do you feel bombarded by people's feelings too? Not when you try to, but instantaneously (or however you spell it), like you are hit by something (a train or a lightening, perhaps)... if you do, which emotions do you pick up more easily?

Edit: I just noticed Aven and Oddy mentioned something like this :blush: But still... which feelings hit you stronger?

[nobarcode]

But what about empathy guys? Do you feel bombarded by people's feelings too? Not when you try to, but instantaneously (or however you spell it), like you are hit by something (a train or a lightening, perhaps)... if you do, which emotions do you pick up more easily?

Edit: I just noticed Aven and Oddy mentioned something like this :blush: But still... which feelings hit you stronger?

Odyssey:

Stress includes: overwhelming negative-energy empathy from others,.....
Negative-energy empathy from others? I'm not sure I understand this.
I think it was shaytana's thread about the speaker, etc..(i can't find it). But I didn't identify with it at all. Other peoples feelings, be it embarrassment, or whatever have little effect on me, if at all. As I said, I'm easily aware of them, but...I'm probably severally lacking in "empathy", as I understand it.

[Johnny]

Empathy is something that I think can be gained only from one's experience. It's value as a tool increases, to be sure, as it gets honed.

That's how I look at it to avoid "getting hit by a train". To borrow from Jung (if I have it right, that is), one must objectify a matter to get to the bottom of it and utilize its true potential. It's not something I've always been able to do, but I've gotten better at using empathy as a tool with practice. Not for manipulation, mind you, but for influencing a social outcome positively, getting things done and moving forward.

I still have trouble seeing bodily injury photos and not feeling "virtual" pain in response to them...

[nobarcode]

I know, but somehow it seems different to me. Can we please use some standard definition of the word? From Merriam-Webster : http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=empathy&x=26&y=16:
1 : the imaginative projection of a subjective state into an object so that the object appears to be infused with it
2 : the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another of either the past or present without having the feelings, thoughts, and experience fully communicated in an objectively explicit manner; also : the capacity for this

In addition, what is pathos?

"vicariously experiencing the feelings" I do not do this, that is why I am confused.

[Odyssey]

"vicariously experiencing the feelings"
I do this around people, big time. I can turn empathy off if I'm not stressed, or I'll eventually go numb under EXTREME stress (about once every four months in high school?).


Do you feel bombarded by people's feelings too? Not when you try to, but instantaneously (or however you spell it), like you are hit by something (a train or a lightening, perhaps)... if you do, which emotions do you pick up more easily?
Well, my experience of others' emotions isn't really bombardment, but more like me being a sponge to water; it's quick but noticeably gradual as my body assimilates the feelings. If another's emotion comes to overwhelm me, it does so gradually until it's really difficult to focus on anything else. It's very hard not to visibly cringe/squirm. When I -do- feel bombardment, though, is a sudden noise or intense flashy lights. I feel the most bombardment with Sensate things rather than Feeling things.


Odyssey, will you explain some of your "tricks" in more depth?
Sure - let's see,
Nonrational Optimism (tempered by reasonability)
That's so I'm not discouraged by some difficulties arising from HSP + introversion. Difficulties include social exhaustion - I become hyper-engaged around people but I can't maintain that intensity level.
Resilience
My recommended resource is Resilience Outcomes: Personal Strengths (pdf) (http://www.wested.org/online_pubs/resiliency/resiliency.chap2.pdf).
Self-esteem
For an HSP, self-esteem helps me feel in control of myself despite a higher awareness of stress factors that could potentially overwhelm me. I usually feel competent to keep my focus on what matters, instead of feeling mesmerized (overwhelmed) with some kind of powerful input - unless, of course, the focus is on the input.
Self-assertion
It helps me feel in control, despite sensivities that seem to threaten sanity, in some environments ;-]
Self-awareness/self-management - essential! O_O
Being aware of my inner state (mentally and emotionally and intuitively and body-wise) allows me to work on keeping my psyche in top shape. In places that are both social and over-stimulating, my psyche is high-maintenance indeed.
Self-understanding
Related to self-management, self-understanding allows you to mentally figure out how to meet your needs, or intuitively know what action to take that's most psychologically healthy for you.
Expressiveness
If I'm undergoing HSP-related stress, it often helps to express it. In extreme cases, I feel I NEED to express myself. Being a more nonverbal type, I prefer to activate full body language. My piano teacher has noted in writing that I can express a mood with great intensity, both in the music and in my body language. I sense stress and other emotions acutely in the body, so it's not difficult to know how to release it.
~Odyssey

.

[Miss Padfoot]

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited.True.


They are often acutely aware of other's emotions.Sometimes, but not the way NFs tend to be.


Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.Intuition and creativity, no. As long as I run it through my Ti "censor" first, I say what comes into my head. I suppose I can get a little nervous about voicing my ideas if I'm not positive I can support them rationally.


Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos.Noise, glaring lights, and strong odors, yes. Clutter and chaos, no.


They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.Well, I have a low tolerance for pain and I avoid all kinds of athletic activity. But I don't eat or sleep unless someone makes me. So a small yes, but a large no.


Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.Check. But I'm not hard on myself for being a misfit - I don't think something's wrong with me. I just find others boring, and what's wrong with that? I guess I can be arrogant about my "loner"-ness.


Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.Well, I am alone for that, but I don't think it's out of fear of others' harshness. If they're harsh about me, I want to know why. If their reasons are, well, reasonable, then I will consider what they are saying. If not, they're stupid and I don't need them. Goodbye.


Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees.Conscientious? Me? :rofl:


They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.Now that sounds like the type of person for whom work and career are easy. I'm not one of them.


Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.I've never been in a really serious relationship, so I wouldn't know.


Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.I wouldn't have said modern society favors stoicism. I'm quietly tough, in a way. I'm not stoic, and I'm not outgoing.


Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.Uh, nope. Unless I was (and this is possible) one of those lucky children not to have "wounds."


Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.Not really. I can understand myself just fine, but the "inner searching" business seems like bunk to me. I'm not too busy and active for "inner searching." I just am not interested and I don't see anything remotely rational about it. My dominant Ti only gets in the way.


Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.Er, whatever. I eat what tastes good, if my mind isn't occupied with something other than food. A resounding "no" to that one.

I think that HSPs are most likely to be INFJs. I know quite a few INFJs and they fit this description pretty well. I also think that Enneagram type 4s would be far more likely than 5s to be HSPs, and the 5s that are HSPs are probably 5w4s. The poll results say, actually, that more 4s than 5s tend to be HSPs.

[Melody]

This reminds me of crack babies (babies whose mothers used cocaine.) Some of them are so sensitive that just touching them causes them pain. ;_;

I once saw a television program about the Apollo 13 space flight that went bad. The program showed a clip of a praying woman in a third-worldish-looking place. Upon seeing this, my legs became week and I practically fell to the floor.

In general, I am very sensitive to others' emotions. If they are happy emotions, I will laugh maniacally along with people. If they are negative, and especially if they are directed at me, I will get the urge to cry immediately and I usually try to run away before that happens. I remind myself of Vash The Stampede.

I don't like hurting living things. In some of the houses I have lived in, there were serious cockroach problems, but I never wanted to kill them. I would not step on them and I felt bad that my family set up roach traps to kill them. I could not stand roaches, but I still felt bad. I can wack a plant or two to execute my samurai fantasies, but even that would make me feel bad if I did it too much.

Of course, it depends on how I interpret things. If someone is clearly trying to make me feel bad, I will think nothing of it and emotionally ignore them. Recently, the only Gorillaz song I didn't enjoy was "Rock the House" because Del says, "...so shake your asscrack." The concept of shaking one's asscrack was very uncomfortable for me for some reason. Now I think it is hilarious and enjoy the song. --edit-- I don't know if that's applicable to what we're conversationizing aboot, but I remembered it because of the topic of "harsh music."

[Jkrs]

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited.
Check, though only among people I don't know/don't like.


They are often acutely aware of other's emotions.
Check. I'm an emotional sponge, and I hate it.


Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.
Yes, no, no.


Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos.
No. The noise thing is learned, and I'm easily distractable still. I like glaring lights, as I can draw by them more easily. I'm usually either experiencing allergies or one in the series of sinus infections, so my sense of smell is dampened. A certain amount of clutter and chaos (though not biological messes) are what makes a room feel lived in.


They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.
Kinda. Good kinesthetic sense, but it operates oddly at times. Not so good at keeping track of where that is in relation to the rest of the universe. The second is too vague to answer.


Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.
Misfit: No. The rest: Yep.


Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.
No. I don't consider myself to spend too much time alone. That might be because I usually have to fight for it.


Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.
Never been employed, so I couldn't say.


In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues.
This could apply to anyone. I wouldn't be surprised if it applied to everyone.


They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.
Too vague to answer.


Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.
I have unexpected areas of fragility and strength.


Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.
Uh?


Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.
I am good at introspection, but that's not a spiritual thing. Whether that's positive is a matter of opinion.


Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.
Certain states tend to correlate with what I've eaten recently, but my 'emotional stability' has never hinged on food.



Also, do any of you experience empathy? How do you deal with it?
From the point of view of the emotional sponge, I'll let positive feelings take effect largely unopposed. Negative ones find me either trying to escape or becoming annoyed/angry so I can't pick it up as easily (and maybe persuade them to go away). Only in the case of a friend will I try and cheer the person up.

[Star Cannon]

Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.

I absolutely cannot sleep with the T.V. on in the same room.


Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.


Misfit: I don't really fit into any social 'catagory'. Own company? AYE!


Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.

Being with my mom's friends stresses me out; being in a large group does also.


Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.

I do not identify with _anyone_ in the media.

I have many characteristics of this HSP thingie but I don't think I'm a HSP...
At least not yet.

[keetah]

I am a HSP.

[Boneca]

I would have guessed that HSP described INFP/J people more than INTP's so I'm a bit surprised.
Myself, I cannot identify at all with most of that stuff.
I am no more aware of others' emotions than my own (which means, not very much), and I'm not shy, I just think most people are boring. Also, I like rock concerts, so there goes the noise bit...

[keetah]

I would have guessed that HSP described INFP/J people more than INTP's
yes. most hsp's are infj's or infp's (see also http://www.aimoo.com/forum/postview.cfm?id=319094&CategoryID=11285&startcat=1&ThreadID=336923)

[notherbloodyNF]

Vagabond--But what about empathy guys? Do you feel bombarded by people's feelings too? Not when you try to, but instantaneously (or however you spell it), like you are hit by something (a train or a lightening, perhaps)... if you do, which emotions do you pick up more easily?

I've had this happen as long as I can remember. Occasionally it happens with physical pain as well, but that's only with people I'm fairly close to. But anybody's emotional pain can wallop me if I get near them physically. I still haven't figured out how to deal with it, so it seems more a burden than anything else, although it doesn't get in the way of normal functioning the way it did when I was younger.

[CosmicDust]

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited. They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.
Shy, introverted, socially inhibited - yes. Acutely aware of others' emotions - no. Masking attributes - maybe.


Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.
Er, neutral on this stuff. I don't think it's especially intense for me. I have some awareness of these things, but I don't think more than other people. And I live in clutter. Then again, I do tend to want to shut out cold or noisy conditions, and excessive heat can also be unpleasant to work in. Still, I doubt it's beyond average.


Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.
Yeah...well, maybe not a misfit per se, but kind of out of the loop and not caring too much to be in it, 'cause it usually seems dull.


Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.
The former.


Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.
Conscientious? No...these days I tend to be the procrastinator paralyzed in anxieties and having trouble getting off my ass.


Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.
I don't have enough (close) relationship experience to be able to tell.


Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.
True...


Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.
I've been thinking about this one lately, in exploring my work-related anxieties and depression-like symptoms...it might well be the case. I do have a lot of negative energy from when I was growing up.


Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.
Maybe...


Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.
I don't know...I don't have any food allergies or major intolerances or anything.



Anyone of you identifies? The HSP issue was mentioned on another board and it scared the hell out of me that I could identify with every point of this list. Also, do any of you experience empathy? How do you deal with it? I know this looks like two different topics, but they are not necessarily so... I have started to think that being a HSP is even worse than being an Introvert as far as finding understanding is concerned... also, I would have thought that Feelers and non-Fives would be more likely to be HSP, but it looks like Fives (http://www.highlysensitivesouls.com/enneagram.htm) are the most likely to be HSP, while INTPs are among the highest ones according to this (http://www.aimoo.com/forum/polls.cfm?id=319094&type=categories&parentid=11285&CategoryID=11285) poll. (I am not sure one can see this poll though unless they are members of the board... hmm).

So... feedback. Do you relate...?

I actually don't think of myself as having much empathy. People around me can be troubled and I can find myself surprisingly well insulated from that. Sometimes another person's mood will bring mine down, but it's generally mild and so not a problem for me.

Overall, I don't think I quite qualify as an HSP. I'm barely a 5. (I've gone back to that.)

[INTrPosr]

Vag..... it's topics like this which are much needed in the lives of INTPs. I have come to realize that I circumvent my own growth in attempting to remain in my comfort zone, not admitting to certain things like being HSP and so on..... Although I usually show INTP in all cases, I find very little relatedness to the average description. I can concur with pretty much all of the description you posted.

[Geek Engineer]

I was looking at this class list Friday at work and there was a class talking about HSPs. I wondered what that was all about and looked it up on the web. Suddenly I realized I might be an HSP or at least somewhat HSP. However, I wasn't sure if this sounded like more of an NF type trait, but it looks like those are just the more common type to have it. Then I found this old thread on the subject.

I took the test I found at this web sight and here is what I thought about them. http://www.hsperson.com/pages/test.htm


I am easily overwhelmed by strong sensory input.
no

I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.
yes

Other people's moods affect me.
yes. But it somewhat depends on the situation.

I tend to be very sensitive to pain.
not necessarily, but I do hate the dentist.

I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days,into bed or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.
yes

I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
not sure since I don't usually drink things with caffeine in them.

I am easily overwhelmed by things like bright lights, strong smells,coarse fabrics,or sirens close by.
not really. However this reminds me when I was a child I had this paralyzing reaction to silverware clanging together.. Hmm..

I have a rich,complex inner life.
YES!!!

I am made uncomfortable by loud noises.
Depends. If it VERY loud like a rock concert or something..

I am deeply moved by the arts or music.
Not really.

My nervous system sometimes feels so frazzled that I just have to go off by myself.
Yes.

I am conscientious.
Yes.

I startle easily.
I do when I am deeply concentrating on something and someone interrupts me.

I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time.
Yes

When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).
Well maybe sometimes, sometimes I just ask them just in case.

I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.
Hell yes..

I try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things.
YES..

I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.
no

I become unpleasantly aroused when a lot is going on around me.
not sure. I don't think so.

Being very hungry creates a strong reaction in me,disrupting my concentration or mood.
Yes it can at times.

Changes in my life shake me up.
Yes it can.

I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.
not sure. I do notice things around me, but don't necessarily have to enjoy them.

I find it unpleasant to have a lot going on at once.
Yes.

I make it a high priority to arrange my life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations.
I have been know to do this.

I am bothered by intense stimuli, like loud noises or chaotic scenes.
Not that I am aware of, but it may depend on the situation.

When I must compete or be observed while performing a task, I become so nervous or shaky that I do much worse than I would otherwise.
Yes. I mainly just get nervous.

When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy.
Yes.

So I would say it is a fair probability that I am a HSP or at least HSPish.. OH NO!!! :shock:

I think I am also what they call a Sensory Seeker. Yes! Send me to Mars now!!!

Sensation seekers (SSs) are born with a deep curiosity and need to explore. Although this sounds like the opposite of being sensitive, nature planned it otherwise. Different genes and brain systems seem to govern the two traits, so that HSPs can also be SSs. But it certainly complicates their lives.

So no wonder my life is complicated.. Ha Ha..

This also was an interesting quote that I found that I really liked.
http://www.highlysensitivepeople.com/Background.html


Pearl S. Buck, (1892-1973), recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in 1932 and of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938, once said about highly sensitive people:

"The truly creative mind in any field is no more than this:
A human creature born abnormally, inhumanly sensitive.

To him...

a touch is a blow,
a sound is a noise,
a misfortune is a tragedy,
a joy is an ecstasy,
a friend is a lover,
a lover is a god,
and failure is death.

Add to this cruelly delicate organism the overpowering necessity to create, create, create - - - so that without the creating of music or poetry or books or buildings or something of meaning, his very breath is cut off from him. He must create, must pour out creation. By some strange, unknown, inward urgency he is not really alive unless he is creating."

-Pearl S. Buck

[red]

I can relate to alot of that except acting 'normal'. I think I do that pretty well even though some tell me I'm 'weird', and 'different' sometimes. Some times I also become overdramatic. ._____.

[Birdsnest]

Yes, I'm even what you might call an hs-hsp. Not so much emotionally, but physically. I jump at loud sounds, can't take perfumes, extreme temps hot or cold, have to get extra novacaine at dentists office, I think I actually have more nerves than most people in those dendrites, sensitive to wind on my eyes, bright lights, sounds, (had to leave work when they did the fire alarm drill, because it frazzles me instantly, and for days afterwards I'm a wreck after I hear a shrill alarm). I get instant pnuemonia if I breath bug sprays. I've had to rip carpets out of my house because I can't stand breathing new or dirty carpets, I need wood floors. I pissed off nurses in the hospital when I told them their hand cream was making me ill, (the smell of HAND CREAM?) It was so perfumey, the medications and antibiotics mixed with the smell and I really threw up from it.
Emotionally I am not normally too sensitive, but I am definitely shy, and always have been. I've learned that part of that is being empathic and actually picking up the energy of people around me, and its exhausting to pick up so much, as I said, my brain picks up twenty more things than other peoples brains, so it is stressful. Others may just see people in the room for instance, an hsp senses undercurrents in energies from all the people in the room. Of course thats exhausting, and why I like to recluse. For me, this is an inherant thing, I was born with, I've always been this way. Thunder even stresses me out, and all I want to do is sleep when I hear it, and I live in the South when it thunders all summer.

Mostly, you learn to limit yourself, and don't force yourself to participate in every social get together. You have to say no to some things, and take off work sometimes to recuperate.

Yes to everything on Elaine Arons list below, except the caffiene. I have to have my coffee, but in fact maybe it is true, so yes to all of these. However, I've learned to deal with being asked for things last minute, and am a whiz at that now.

I am easily overwhelmed by strong sensory input.I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.Other people's moods affect me.I tend to be very sensitive to pain.I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days,into bed or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.I am easily overwhelmed by things like bright lights, strong smells,coarse fabrics,or sirens close by.I have a rich,complex inner life.I am made uncomfortable by loud noises.I am deeply moved by the arts or music.My nervous system sometimes feels so frazzled that I just have to go off by myself.I am conscientious.I startle easily.I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time.When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.I try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things.I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.I become unpleasantly aroused when a lot is going on around me.Being very hungry creates a strong reaction in me,disrupting my concentration or mood.Changes in my life shake me up.I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.I find it unpleasant to have a lot going on at once.I make it a high priority to arrange my life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations.I am bothered by intense stimuli, like loud noises or chaotic scenes.When I must compete or be observed while performing a task, I become so nervous or shaky that I do much worse than I would otherwise.When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy.

[Garyincinci]

I believe HSP to not be HSP at all. I believe it to be a heightened sense of awareness. I think of it in terms of a Buddhist approach almost. "HSP" is a shakey term at best IMO. HSP is a form of giftedness as far as I am concerned and everyone I've ever met who is "HSP" (including myself) has always had a higher than average IQ. I believe it to be a "by-product" of genius.

Gifted children are born with two things that most people have to develop through their lives. An intensive drive which cause them to seek out perfection (or in an INTP's case, the knowledge required to achieve perfection). And secondy, a naturally occuring high level of awareness. This awareness allows the gifted to have an almost supernatural sense of empathy.

As a child my intelectual and awareness was always higher than average, my emotional development however was always an issue. Due to high levels of awareness, I could sense and feel everything around me. As a result I was constantly in overload as a child. Completely unable to focus in a classroom setting because of all the sights, sounds and feelings around me. 30 years ago doctors called this hyperactive-delayed development. Today they call it ADHD or Aspirger's, that is...unless you can find a psychologist trained in childhood giftedness.

Today at the ripe age of 31, my awareness is higher than ever due to natural ability and personal devlopment. So in regards to the post itself....



Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited. They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.

This is a natural response when at a young age a child realizes that they are very much differnt from the other students. It is true of all children and not just "HSP".


Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.
It's not so much that I can't tolerate noise, or even loud noises, more so that the number of noises tends to overwhelm me. Most people walking down the street hear and focus on maybe 3 or 4 of the sounds as they walk down the street. When I walk, I hear between 20-50 things. At an basic level, I'm unconciously listening (and indentifying) every sound. If there are too many sounds at once, I end up becoming very excited (Not a good thing, think anxiety attack). I am very sensative in the presence of bright sources of light such as the sun or fluorescent bulbs. I really hate going outdoors in the summer. The sun is so bright it literally hurts my eyes.




Socially, they may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone.
I am a mistfit. As an INTP I'm less than 1% of the populace. As a gifted person, I'm in another 1% catagory. So in essence, I'm at best...1 in 1000. So for every 1 person I meet who I can relate to and find an interest in, I meet approximately 999 that do not. From the first grade on I had no friends and found that I could not only entertain myself, I often prefered it to the less intelectual challenges offered by my childhood peers. It's no wonder "HSP"s would find solstice in their own company as opposed to others.


Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.
I'm guilty of both. I spend almost all of my time at home. I only go out when I have to and I try to prolong the event for as long as possible. I don't enjoy visiting others, going to movies, or even taking a walk. When, in the rare instances I do feel social, I go out, I often "overload" within 10-15 minutes. Its as though every person I see tells me everything about them just from me looking at them. I feel like I know the type of person they are, what they like and dislike, what drives them and what causes them pain....all from looking / feeling their presence. What has always baffled me is the accuracy of my "guessing".


Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.
Many of us would like to attain higher levels in an organization. What we find out when we do is that we simply can't stand it. As a manager, I was never able to be myself. My gifts often helped me relate to others, but telling them what to do was always stressful to me. Ultimately, I have found that the jobs I enjoy the most are the ones that have very little direct contact with others. I currently install home theatres and satallites. I see maybe 3-6 people a day and don't really have to deal with them beyond telling them how to use a remote.


Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.
This really freaks a lot of girls out. When you're sitting on a couch and you tell them, verbatum what they are thinking or feeling. One girlfriend told me "I feel like we can never have any mystery with you, you seem to know everything I think, sometimes even before I think it." My personal issues almost always surface once a person get's to know me. One of the reasons I get to know so few is that because I do have a multitude of issues. To get to know someone is to explain those issues. It's rare that I find someone accepting enough to overlook them and just love the person for what they are.


Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.
Of course not. We are made from a different mold. We realize what drives people at an emotional level and we have a natural ability to "free-think" and make the decisions which society often makes for us on our own. As a result, many of our personal views and mannerisms greatly differ from society.


Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.
I'm 31 and still have not resolved my "childhood" hurts. I may never.


Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.
Greatest blessings....greatest curses. Someone without a personal belief is always searching and someone searching is never at rest. I would love to be able to experience the blissful peace granted from the ignorance which comes with accepting a religion, but I can not do so. I am still in search of my spirituality and more than likely always will be. As such it will always be a source of turmoil in my life.



Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.

Ya, but I love buffalo Wild Wings :)

[ChristiRB]

I have the two books that were put out on this subject. I have the WORST type: HSP/HSS. It means I am highly sensitive AND sensation seeking so there is very little that can substain me. I am contantly fighting the two extremes.

I bet I was a handful as a child fighting between beng easily bored and easily overwhelmed. :)

[waxwing]

On a tangential note regarding light sensitivity:


The light-dark cycle is, for our purposes here, the principle seasonal variable of interest. The overall length of the photoperiod has two extremes (it is longest in the summer and shortest in the winter), whereas the rate of change in the ratio of light to dark has two peaks, one in late winter-early spring, and the other in late summer-early fall (these peaks occur because of the elliptical orbit of the earth around the sun. Thus, if manic-depressive patients are abnormal sensitive to seasonal light changes, one would expect that this would be reflected either by opposite behavioral patterns at the two extremes (winter and summer) or behavioral disturbances in early spring or early fall, reflecting the period of rapidly increasing light and rapidly decreasing light respectively. Research findings show that patients with manic-depressive illness do, in fact, have an increased sensitivity to light. This increased sensitivity is found in both the ill and well states and has also been found in children who have not yet shown symptoms of manic-depressive illness but hwo are increased rish for it because either on or both parents have the disease. This suggests that increased sensitivity to light may be part of the genetic vulnerability to manic- depressive illness and that abnormal light sensitivity in manic-depressive patients is probably not simply a result of the illness but may be more causally linked.
-Kay Redfield Jamison

I'm just wondering if any of you notice those types of changes. I'd have to say that I'm most HSP when it comes to light, so this passage interests me in relation to this thread. I am one for the dimly lit room. Any more gives me a headache and generally makes me irritable.

[Madrigal]

On a tangential note regarding light sensitivity:

-Kay Redfield Jamison

I'm just wondering if any of you notice those types of changes. I'd have to say that I'm most HSP when it comes to light, so this passage interests me in relation to this thread. I am one for the dimly lit room. Any more gives me a headache and generally makes me irritable.

I don't mind noise and i'm generally 'insensitive' to distractions around me. I can fall asleep in the middle of a rave if i wanted to. But I detest bright lights. I think this may be because I have slight astigmatism.

[Madrigal]

By the way, the description is exactly like my bf, and he's ENFP.

[swamitommi]

Holy crap! I attended an HSP workshop / support group about 10 years ago - before I took the mbti - in San Francisco. It was conducted by a researcher working to develop the traits and shall we say care for HSPs - not the guy on the site though - can't remember her name offhand. Anyway, I found that I have many of the traits of the HSP - including physical shaking when bombarded with noise, light, social situations, and yes, a strong sense of empathy. Crazy. I'd completely forgotten about the HSP thing. I'll see if I can dig out my literature from the workshop this week!

[waxwing]

Holy crap! I attended an HSP workshop / support group about 10 years ago - before I took the mbti - in San Francisco. It was conducted by a researcher working to develop the traits and shall we say care for HSPs - not the guy on the site though - can't remember her name offhand. Anyway, I found that I have many of the traits of the HSP - including physical shaking when bombarded with noise, light, social situations, and yes, a strong sense of empathy. Crazy. I'd completely forgotten about the HSP thing. I'll see if I can dig out my literature from the workshop this week! Interesting. Sound and social situations only sometimes bother me, but in certain situations where I feel deeply and almost painfully, I shake (whole body tenses up, shallow breathing, etc.) to the point of my teeth chattering as if I were freezing cold. Usually I lose the ability to talk about how I feel for a while, kind of shield my eyes from my emotion, make absolutely no sense, but am acutely aware of some intense feeling, either my own or someone else's. It kind of embarasses me. I never really associated that with HSP, but it probably is related.

[indigo]

I'm definitely a HSP and INTP.

I wish we had a HSP poll at INTPc.

[oxford comma]

HSP is a form of giftedness as far as I am concerned and everyone I've ever met who is "HSP" (including myself) has always had a higher than average IQ. I believe it to be a "by-product" of genius.
That's what I used to think, but I think the two are just linked, and HSP is not necessarily just a subset of genius.

As for the bolded, consider this analogy:

if you've only seen white swans your whole life, you'd come to the conclusion that all swans are white. But, black swans exist. I've met a non-genius HSP.

HSP symptoms I have:
- hyperaware of surroundings, to the point of detriment... however, it is the atmosphere I am smothered by, not the tangible details.
- occasionally shy
- aware of others' emotions, tailor actions to suit that

I am not:
- super receptive to physical sensations. I like my music loud, and my food aromatic.
- bothered by clutter.
- concientious, lolwut

[aether]

I think I sort of am a HSP. There's a meetup group which I might attend.

[I_Live_In_A_Van]

Yes, im a 90 percenter on this list. Ive already documented my struggles with boredom as related to the workworld on this forum, but the emphasis on
isolation and "trying to be normal" also strikes chords.