Sensory-Processing Sensitivity, dispositional mindfulness and negative psychological symptoms

Sensory-Processing Sensitivity (SPS) refers to a trait-like difference in the extent to which individuals strongly and deeply process a variety of stimuli in the environment. While such sensitivities may be positive (i.e., greater appreciation and awareness of the environment) or negative (i.e., being overwhelmed by such stimuli), the majority of the literature to date has focused on the negative aspect of this relationship e.g., the higher propensity for depression and anxiety. Therefore, this research examined variables that may impact or moderate the relationship between SPS and distress. One prime moderator candidate is mindfulness – the ability to attend to and be accepting of present experience. In this research we aimed to investigate the relationship between SPS, mindfulness and distress using a cross-sectional methodology in a non-clinical sample. While SPS related to higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress, the results were taken to support the moderation hypothesis with respect to anxiety. In particular, SPS only related to anxiety when mindfulness and acceptance were low, but the relationships were not significant when mindfulness and acceptance were high. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.

► Examined Sensory-Processing Sensitivity (SPS) in relation to negative affect.
► Investigated the moderating effect of trait mindfulness and acceptance on SPS.
► SPS only related to anxiety when mindfulness and acceptance were low.
► Mindfulness and acceptance-based treatments may be helpful for those high on SPS.