Experiential permeability: Associations with schizotypy and related symptoms

This paper examined the relations between experiential permeability (the maladaptive aspects of openness to experience) and the constructs of schizotypy, psychoticism, dissociation, and sleep disturbances. Using a cross-sectional design with self- and informant ratings, Study 1 (N = 241) found moderate to strong associations between high experiential permeability facets (i.e., odd and eccentric, unrestricted self) and these external correlates. Low permeability (i.e., superficial orientation toward experiences) was strongly linked to negative symptoms of schizotypy. Study 2 (N = 87) employed an experience-sampling methodology to examine the relations between experiential permeability and manifestations of schizotypy symptoms in daily life. Results suggest that eccentric individuals (i.e., with high permeability) experienced elevated daily symptoms when they encountered stress whereas superficial individuals (i.e., with low permeability) showed high levels of daily symptoms regardless of environmental stresses. Overall, the present research provided novel empirical data linking schizotypy and related symptoms to maladaptive aspects of openness.