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Sensory processing sensitivity
Temperament is the way we are born. It includes things such as our activity levels or typical mood. Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a temperament trait, describing people who notice and think more deeply about what they see, hear, and feel compared to others.
Highly sensitive people tend to notice subtle details others miss, reflect carefully before responding, experience emotions intensely, and get overwhelmed more easily in busy environments. Research suggests that up to 1 in 3 people are high in this trait.
Sensory processing sensitivity reflects normal variation in central nervous system response and represents a helpful survival strategy. This ensures that some individuals are wired to be especially observant, reflective, and good at noticing small changes in their surroundings.
Sensation seeking
Sensation seeking is looking for new, exciting, and intense experiences. First described by psychologist Marvin Zuckerman, it is a personality trait associated with curiosity and creativity, and it helps people explore and learn.
Recent research has found that up to 50% of highly sensitive people are also sensation seekers – enjoying novel, complex, and stimulating experiences while still requiring quiet recovery from stimulation.
For example, a sensation-seeker might choose to try a bustling, new restaurant recently opened in town, while someone who isn’t a sensation seeker may prefer their usual quiet café where they know exactly what to expect.
Living with the paradox
Those who are both highly sensitive and sensation seeking may experience:
- Craving novelty and challenge while needing quiet downtime
- Deep emotional engagement, yet an urge to explore new experiences
- Moments of overwhelm alongside bursts of curiosity and courage
This mix can sometimes feel conflicting – even uncomfortable at times – but it is a strength when understood and managed well
Valuing both sides
It’s important for highly sensitive sensation seekers to value both sides of their personality so they can enjoy new experiences while still respecting their need for rest and reflection.
Highly sensitive sensation seekers are often extremely creative – the need for downtime gives space to think and plan, while the sensation seeking leads to exploring exciting new ideas.
1. Integrate reflection and exploration
Use your sensitivity to look for new experiences. Choose activities that stimulate without overwhelming – creative projects, skill learning, or immersive cultural experiences.
2. Prioritise recovery
Scheduling downtime is crucial for recovery and reflection.
3. Seek meaningful novelty
Focus on experiences that align with your values. Intellectual challenges, travel, or creative exploration satisfy sensation seeking while honouring sensitivity.
4. Use sensitivity as your compass
Let your deep awareness guide decisions, from personal relationships to adventures. Sensitivity provides emotional insight, helping you choose experiences that give you energy instead of depleting it.
Final thoughts
Being both highly sensitive and sensation seeking is not a contradiction – it’s a powerful and unique combination of traits. When you respect both sides, you can turn your thoughts into action and your curiosity into meaningful experiences.
Credits
Author: Kaaryn Cater
Buddy: Rick Arends
Translator: Rick Arends
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