C015

Sensory Sensitivity

B01 Attention & Processing
Core LayerMML-1

Version v1.3.2

Definition

Baseline sensitivity to sensory stimuli (visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, gustatory); the degree to which these stimuli capture attention, evoke arousal, and require processing.

Poles

Each HES element is a spectrum, not a category: the Low and High poles describe how it presents at its two extremes, while the Reference marks the typical, everyday middle. The poles map variation across the range — neither end is inherently better or worse.

Low Pole

Sensory robustness: stimuli rarely distract or overwhelm; can work in noisy/bright environments without discomfort.

High Pole

High sensory sensitivity: even moderate stimuli may distract, fatigue, or cause discomfort; prefers quiet, subdued environments.

Reference

Moderate sensitivity: ordinary environments are tolerated well, but excessive stimulation (concert, crowd) causes fatigue.

Measure

Detection threshold for stimuli, or intensity of discomfort under standardized exposures.

Measuring Methods

• Tasks measuring detection of sensory signals at varying intensities.
• Sensory sensitivity questionnaires (e.g., Highly Sensitive Person Scale).
• Physiological measures (skin conductance, evoked potentials) during stimulus presentation.

Empirical Anchor

Sensory processing sensitivity / SPS (Aron & Aron, 1997); HSP construct; sensory gating (Braff & Geyer, 1990).

Notes

• High sensory sensitivity can be an advantage in creative professions but requires environmental management.
• Differs from C048Aesthetic Sensitivity (focus on intensity and discomfort, not aesthetic evaluation).
• Differs from C034Threat Detection Sensitivity (here any stimuli, not just threat-related).
• Important for understanding overload (see Quantum states Q003, Q026).

Citation

APA

Human Elements System. (2026). Sensory Sensitivity (HES Passport C015, v1.3.2). hestable.com. https://hestable.com/passport/C015

BibTeX

@misc{hes_C015, author = {{Human Elements System}}, title = {{Sensory Sensitivity}}, year = {2026}, note = {HES Passport C015, v1.3.2}, howpublished = {\url{https://hestable.com/passport/C015}} }