Högkänslighet i ett “känslolöst” samhälle: En kvalitativ studie om högkänsliga personers upplevelse av sitt personlighetsdrag

Sammanfattning: Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a personality trait believed to be found in about 15 - 20% of the human population. It’s characterized by deep processing, enhanced responsiveness and awareness of external as well as internal stimuli. The aim of this study was to examine the subjective experiences of highly sensitive people (HSP). Research suggests that influences from the social environment can have both a positive and negative affect on HSP, as they are especially receptive to feedback from others. Therefore the present study set out to examine HSP’s subjective experience of how they’ve been affected by other people's perception of their trait, as well as how they’ve been treated by others. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with six self identified HSP participants. Thematic analysis was used to capture the essence of the participants' experiences and thoughts. Four themes emerged from the analysis; overstimulation in the encounter with others, lack of understanding, attempt to fit in and the impact on self-esteem. The results suggest that HSP believe the general public to have a lack of understanding for the personality trait, which have negatively impacted them. This study provides knowledge on how HSP feel about their personality trait and how they believe others to view them. It highlights the importance of continued education and knowledge of HSP. Knowledge can improve the awareness, understanding and acceptance of high sensitivity, for HSP and for people in their surroundings.