Study Finds HSPs Experience More Stress at Work Than Others

Agitation at work is inevitable, but new research suggests 26% of adults could use a little more agitation. prone to stress at work than others.

Researchers at Osaka University have found that highly sensitive people (HSPs) are “more susceptible” to stress and may experience it when higher level than their colleagues.

They said this remains true even with the people who have screwed over the optimists and pessimists.

A man appears tense at his computer as several people demand his attention. — Researchers at Osaka University have found that highly sensitive people (HSPs) are “more susceptible” to stress and may experience it at higher levels than their counterparts. Getty Images/iStockphoto

HSPs have what is called sensory sensitivity, or SSS, which means they have both greater emotional sensitivity and greater reactivity to internal and external stimuli such as pain, light and noise.

Psychologist Elaine Aron, who coined the termexplained that HSPs often “easily overwhelmed by strong sensory stimuli” such as bright lights, strong odors, rough fabrics, or sirens; are very sensitive to pain; feel discomfort with loud sounds; and easy to get scared.

They also often feel the need to avoid aggressive media, are easily influenced by other people’s moods, have a “complicated inner life” and are “deeply moved by art or music.”

All this, according to a new study published in the journal Japanese Journal of Applied Psychologycan do the workplace is more stressful.

Analyzing responses from 270 Japanese workers, they found a correlation between HSPs and higher perceived stress. This trait was also associated with higher feelings of alienation.

The woman looks tense while looking at her phone. — On the other hand, they are also likely to be more empathetic. Getty Images

“Our research found that HSPs tend to experience more stress in the workplace, and approximately 26% of working adults qualify as HSPs.” lead author Tomohiro Yoku said. “This is surprising because it suggests that a significant proportion of employees may be experiencing higher levels of stress.”

But on the bright side, they also found that being an HSP was associated with greater empathy.

“Our findings suggest that although HSPs are more susceptible to stress, their high levels of empathy may be a valuable asset for organizations, especially in jobs that require strong interpersonal skills,” added senior author Eiichiro Watamura.

“By understanding the unique characteristics of HSPs, industry organizations can create more inclusive and supportive environments,” says Ioku. “This can improve employee retention and overall well-being in the workplace.”