Sensory processing sensitivity: a review in the light of the evolution of biological responsivity
Aron, E. N., Aron, A., & Jagiellowicz, J. (2012), Personality and Social Psychology Review, 16(3), 262-282. doi: 10.1177/1088868311434213
This review paper covers the concept of Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) and its four proposed components drawing on the scientific literature from various fields of research.
The paper reviews research on animal personality and suggests that sensitivity should be considered an evolutionary trait based on the observation that the trait has been found in many different species.
It then summarises research in humans, including work on infant temperament and personality traits in relation to sensitivity.
Finally, the review covers research on SPS, including the development of the HSP scale, the four facets of SPS and the relationships between SPS and personality traits before proposing directions for future research