A new study from Osaka University has revealed that Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs)—an estimated 26% of the adult population—may face elevated stress levels in workplace environments, largely due to their increased sensitivity to emotional and physical stimuli. According to the study, HSPs exhibit heightened responsiveness to sensory inputs such as noise, light, and other external stressors, making them more susceptible to job-related stress compared to others, according to a report in New York Post.
Research led by Tomohiro Ioku and recently published in the Japanese Journal of Applied Psychology included an analysis of responses from 270 Japanese workers. Findings indicated that those identified as HSPs reported a notably greater perception of stress and a tendency towards feeling alienated in workplace settings.
Ioku commented on the unexpected prevalence of stress among HSPs in the workforce, stating, “Our study found that HSPs in the workplace tend to feel more stress and approximately 26% of working adults could be classified as HSPs. This is surprising because it suggests a substantial portion of the workforce might be experiencing higher levels of stress.”
The concept of Highly Sensitive Persons, originally introduced by psychologist Elaine Aron, refers to individuals with sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). According to Aron, HSPs have heightened responses not only to their physical surroundings but also to emotional factors, often feeling overwhelmed by bright lights, intense sounds, or even social environments with strong emotional undertones.
Aron’s research noted that such individuals tend to startle easily, avoid violent media, and may even be deeply impacted by music, art, and other creative outlets. This sensitivity can pose unique challenges in a typical work environment, where overstimulation and high demand often persist.
Nevertheless, researchers at Osaka University noted potential advantages associated with HSPs, particularly in their elevated levels of empathy. Senior researcher Eiichiro Watamura remarked, “Our findings indicate that while HSPs are more susceptible to stress, their high levels of empathy can be a valuable asset to organisations, particularly in roles that require strong interpersonal skills.”
Watamura added that companies that recognise and adapt to the unique needs of HSPs may benefit from enhanced employee satisfaction and reduced turnover.
By considering such traits, the researchers suggest that industrial and corporate organisations could create a more supportive workplace environment for HSPs, which may, in turn, contribute positively to broader organisational goals. Lead researcher Ioku concluded that understanding HSP traits could ultimately foster employee retention and improve overall workplace wellbeing.
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