Blogs
Why Sensitive Children Need Secure Relationships: What Our Research Reveals
Are highly sensitive children more emotionally reactive? Our study shows that sensitivity alone does not predict stronger emotional responses. Instead, attachment security plays a crucial role: secure relationships buffer highly sensitive children from distress, while insecure attachment may increase their vulnerability.
4th International Conference on Sensitivity Research – Programme and Registration
Registration is now open for the 4th International Conference on Sensitivity Research: We are delighted to invite you to the 4th International Conference on Sensitivity Research at the historic University of Pavia, one of Italy’s oldest universities, located just 45 minutes outside metropolitan Milan. This conference brings together leading researchers, scholars and practitioners to share and learn about the latest advancements in sensitivity research.
4th International Conference on Sensitivity Research – Call for Submissions
The 4th International Conference on Sensitivity Research will take place on June
19th 2026 at the University of Pavia, Italy (close to Milan). We welcome the submission of abstracts for talks and posters on any recent research related to sensitivity. Submission deadline: 28th February 2026.
Caution under Pressure: How Highly Sensitive People Stay Focused
This study explored how attention works in highly sensitive individuals. Results showed that they tend to adopt a more cautious, focused approach in challenging or emotional situations—an adaptive strategy that supports careful decision-making, though it may also increase susceptibility to stress and mental fatigue.
Sensitivity Matters for Mental Health
Our study is the first ever systematic review and meta-analysis to examine how environmental sensitivity relates to mental health. Across 33 studies, we found that higher sensitivity is consistently linked to depression and anxiety, with important implications for prevention and treatment worldwide.
Are Highly Sensitive People More Stressed? Here’s What the Evidence Says
This blog summarises a recent systematic review that synthesized the current evidence for the association between sensory sensitivity and stress. Solid evidence exists for a relation between sensory sensitivity and stress, but more research is needed on specific groups and protective factors.
Unravelling the Link Between Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Medication Sensitivity
Individuals with high sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) often experience stronger reactions to their surroundings—and recent research shows that this extends to medication. This study highlights the relationship between SPS and medication sensitivity, offering valuable insights into personalised medicine and strategies to improve treatment outcomes for highly sensitive individuals.
Summary of the 3rd International Conference on Sensitivity Research
On Friday, 23 May 2025, a community of academics, professionals, and interested members of the public gathered, both in person and online, to discuss the latest research on sensitivity. This blog post summarises the conference and highlights some key contributions from various sensitivity researchers.
Webinar: Highly Sensitive Children in School: New Findings and Resources
In this webinar, we share the latest research on highly sensitive children in primary school and present new resources, including our revised website, a new teacher questionnaire to identify sensitive children, a new online training module for teachers about sensitive children, and a professional assessment of highly sensitive children.
3rd International Conference on Sensitivity Research – Programme and Information
Registration is now open for the 3rd International Conference on Sensitivity Research: We are delighted to welcome you to the 3rd International Conference on Sensitivity Research at the University of Surrey.
This conference brings together leading researchers and scholars to explore the latest advancements in sensitivity research. With a diverse programme including insightful presentations, a poster session, and a dynamic panel discussion, we aim to foster engaging discussions and meaningful collaborations.