Sensory Processing Sensitivity (Highly Sensitive Person – HSP)

What it is:
Sensory Processing Sensitivity is a personality trait where the nervous system is highly responsive to external and internal stimuli. Students with this trait notice subtleties in their environment, emotions, and social interactions more intensely than their peers. While not classified as a disorder, it can significantly affect learning, stress management, and social engagement.

What to look out for:

• Overwhelm or anxiety in noisy, crowded, or brightly lit classrooms.

• Difficulty managing multiple simultaneous tasks or sudden changes.

• Heightened emotional reactions to criticism, peer conflict, or feedback.

• Sensitivity to subtle cues in tone, expression, or body language, which can lead to overthinking social interactions.

• Fatigue or shutdowns when overstimulated for extended periods.

Real-life example:
During a fast-paced group activity, a student may freeze or withdraw because the classroom noise and movement are overwhelming. In contrast, the same student might excel in quiet, structured activities like reading, research, or one-on-one discussions, demonstrating sharp insight and strong analytical skills.

How it affects learning:
High sensitivity can interfere with attention, focus, and engagement in standard classroom settings. Overstimulation may cause missed instructions or incomplete work. Emotional intensity may make peer interactions challenging and reduce confidence in participation. Students can underperform academically not due to ability but because environmental factors hinder concentration.

Best learning strategies:

• Provide a calm, low-stimulation workspace for focused learning.

• Allow breaks or quiet time when overstimulation occurs.

• Use visual schedules and clear, concise instructions to reduce cognitive load.

• Gradually introduce new experiences to build resilience without overwhelming the student.

• Encourage mindfulness, breathing exercises, or grounding techniques to manage stress.

• Promote strength-based learning, allowing students to engage deeply in areas they are passionate about.

• Educate peers and staff about the trait to foster understanding and minimize social stress.