How many of you are "Highly Sensitive"

[BlueTopaz]

Psychologist Elaine Aron has described a personality type called the "Highly Sensitive Person" or HSP. I am one myself and I have found that many "I" types are as well. Here are the characteristic behaviors:

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

(copied from the site: The Highly Sensitive Person)

here is a link to that site with a self test.
To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

I am interested in how many INTJs would describe themselves as highly sensitive.

[Astra]

I read The Highly Sensitive Person before I'd even heard of MBTI and I definitely think I am one - although a lot of that book seems to describe an INFP rather than anything else (I think Aron is one isn't she?). Those bullet points don't quite represent the whole theory - e.g. she does make the point in her book that some HSPs will deliberately overload on sensory experiences (eating spicy food, for instance) - and a lot of the stuff about needing quiet time is really the essence of any Myers-Briggs Introvert.

So I'm not sure how much it hangs together as a theory, but the advice she gives, particularly on that website, for handling day-to-day life is definitely worth reading.

[pavman]

Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby? No. Although I do notice patterns in things a lot more than is probably normal, IMHO.
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time? No.
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows? No.
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation? Only when I'm tired, or need a break.
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations? No way! I love messing with people's heads and confronting things head on... :o)
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art? Sometimes. One man's treasure is another man's trash.
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life? Yes.
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy? Absolutely. Still am, sort of. In fact, if I didn't have an ENFJ mother growing up, I probably would be much more introverted.

I do sometimes go through spurts where I can't seem to get myself to take care of things like I should.... like calling someone to fix a problem or get some money back, etc. I think this has more to do w/ my work environment than my personality, but perhaps not.

[Astra]

[I]* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations? No way! I love messing with people's heads and confronting things head on... :o)

hmmm. I used to feel that way too, but I've kind of grown out of it :p. I always seemed to approach that type of situation feeling I was on the outside anyway, so had nothing to lose. As I've got older I'm more protective of other people's sensibilities and I tend to try a bit harder to save people's feelings than I used to. That's not to say I *avoid* that type of situation, more that I don't just rush in like a bull in a china shop any more.

[Ryokurin]

Nope. I can't say that I could call myself highly sensitive. I think its similar to the 'shy' stereotype that is often placed on INTJs. If you hear something described about you enough you start to believe it.

[HarleyQuinn]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
- Yeah. There will be periods where I get hit with an extremely strong smell that has no source for it and I hate sirens, overly loud shrill things. I also often find myself squinting if a white light appears after it's been dark for a few moments on television or elsewhere. I'll even squint when I go out and it's sunny.
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
- My blood pressure doesn't rise or anything. Mentally, maybe a little but overall, not really.
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
- Nope. Horror kinda means automatic violence.
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
- I find it's beneficial to have "downtime" even if it's only 10 minutes after a busy day. Wednesdays I have 4 classes from 8 AM - 1:45 PM and by the last class, I just have a need to wind down otherwise I feel tense.
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
- Not really, unless it's a situation like place A will be busy at time X. Then I'll try to plan to go to that place at a time when it won't be as crowded.
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
- Yeah but I usually keep the awareness internal rather than letting others know unless I'm walking around with family, in which case I'll stop and pause or point out said observation.
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
- Not in my opinion but others would probably say yes.
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
- Quite often and my teachers still do (and I'm a Senior) but that's only until I break out of my shell and get comfortable around them.

[Antares]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?

Yes. I can't stand them. I like to play music at a high volume, though, but they're music... not just random noise.


* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?

I find it extremely irritating and stressful.


* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?

No... I in fact started watching the PG-13 to R rated movies since I was a toddler... But no, I have enough sense not to be influenced by them, even as a child.


* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?

Yes.


* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?

Yes. I spend my time preparing myself so I won't get overwhelmed.


* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?

I do that more than anyone I know, but then again, I'd never know, since people don't know that I do that as well. I just seems to have the patience in observing and indulging in nature than anyone I know. Incidentally, in photography, I'm very stubborn and often can stand for hours waiting for my perfect shot. That again, is more than anyone I know.


* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?

I'd say yes, but I won't attempt to explain it.


* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

Yes.

[august]

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

weird.

i can't stand inconsistent public noises -- the sound of chewing gum in any capacity will destroy my ability to concentrate. R&B played on my bus when i was little used to make me cry because the sound was so painful. on the other hand, music is my favorite indulgence and i have to have melody on all the time. i can't do anything if i'm hungry. i hate being in period of life transition (as i am right now).

"When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating)."
- Absolutely. Can you guys do this too?? It's almost like i feel the exact way to manipulate the energy of a room to benefit other people. It's eerie sometimes.

BUT i can repress all of this because i know exactly when i'm being unreasonable.

[DeadSpace]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby? Yes, insanely so

* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?No, i'm always calm...methodical

* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?hmm, i do, hate slasher flicks

* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?Yes

* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?Yes

* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?Yes

* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?lol...yes

* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?yes

[Paul V]

Psychologist Elaine Aron has described a personality type called the "Highly Sensitive Person" or HSP. I am one myself and I have found that many "I" types are as well. Here are the characteristic behaviors:

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

(copied from the site: The Highly Sensitive Person)

here is a link to that site with a self test.
To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

I am interested in how many INTJs would describe themselves as highly sensitive.

Yes.

A little.

Nah.

Yes.

Nope.

I notice them, although too often my mind's too busy to enjoy them.

Of course.

Errr... Not sure. Shy, yes (Specially lately). Sensitive? Not sure.

I suppose I'm a Moderately Highly Sensitive Person. But I think I already knew that.

[BlueTopaz]

I know I'm highly sensitive, but I don't have all the traits. For example, I love slasher flicks and loud metal music. I think like a lot of things, it is a continuum.

[Paul V]

I know I'm highly sensitive, but I don't have all the traits. For example, I love slasher flicks and loud metal music. I think like a lot of things, it is a continuum.

Errr.... what is a slasher flick? I'm not sure we share the same definition...

But I agree with you, it's rare to have all the traits.

[DeadSpace]

Errr.... what is a slasher flick? I'm not sure we share the same definition...

But I agree with you, it's rare to have all the traits.

Slasher flick, friday the 13th series, jason, etc, where main goal of movie is buckets of blood and dismemberment/death in various forms

[BlueTopaz]

Slasher flick, friday the 13th series, jason, etc, where main goal of movie is buckets of blood and dismemberment/death in various forms

yeah, Hills Have Eyes, Hostel (hmmm, I actually didn't like Hostel, because sex was linked with violence. I draw the line there)

[Paul V]

Slasher flick, friday the 13th series, jason, etc, where main goal of movie is buckets of blood and dismemberment/death in various forms


Oh, that. Yeah, I like those too. I like knowing I'm much smarter than the main characters. And it helps me desensitize against gore.





Paul V added to this post, 1 minutes and 34 seconds later...

yeah, Hills Have Eyes, Hostel (hmmm, I actually didn't like Hostel, because sex was linked with violence. I draw the line there)


I draw the line there and with excessive torture. One thing is to dispose of a person in a gory way. Another is prolongue the suffering of the person until they collapse. Which is why it took me so long to see Passion of the Christ (that and the fact that I'm agnostic).

[PortInStorm]

hmmm, I would have never thought you were agnostic, Paul.

by the way, probably sensitive 'cause I get annoyed easily by those things (ex. the stupid 'dance mix' music they put to commercials, sports etc.), and moderately loud noises are painful and extremely aversive. Never see horror films, probably because I'm in forensic psychology and some of that stuff actually happens and it's the most horrid thing one person can do to another. But even before... hated it, it was was the opposite of beauty.

[BlueTopaz]

I just wanted to make an additional observation.
I know that being an HSP does not have anything to do with my Meyers Briggs. It's like all toads are frogs but not all frogs are toads. But a lot of "I" types are highly sensitive too.
I'm on a couple of HSP boards. These boards, by and large, are populated by "ISxx". After reading a lot of the posts here and doing some deeper research into the basic differences I now understand why I was getting into so much trouble over there. I was accused of not being "sensitive" (the greatest horror ever on those boards) and I had a hard time getting along with the "S"s and the "F"s. They would post all this rainbow-lolly-pop I WUB U, crap that would drive me ape shit. ****takes deep breath and undoes tight clothes***** over here I can relax and talk my quantum physics.

[Paul V]

hmmm, I would have never thought you were agnostic, Paul.

by the way, probably sensitive 'cause I get annoyed easily by those things (ex. the stupid 'dance mix' music they put to commercials, sports etc.), and moderately loud noises are painful and extremely aversive. Never see horror films, probably because I'm in forensic psychology and some of that stuff actually happens and it's the most horrid thing one person can do to another. But even before... hated it, it was was the opposite of beauty.


And what did you expect? Zealous catholic or raging atheist?

I'm annoyed by that too. And I completely understand. Though I watch horror movies precisely because I'm still not in forensics (I'm studying Biochemistry, hoping to become a criminalist in the future). Whether on purpose or not, most horror movies have a shred of wisdom behind them. From the common sense ones "don't pick up hitchhikers" or "don't hitchhike", to the more astute ones "always investigate the past of every person you befriend" and "trust nobody".

The opposite of beauty thing... I must agree. It fits the genre perfectly.

[Femme de Homme INTJ]

Is that what they call it? my mom always talks about how my brother and I have "profound senses." I always say, "No, we have 'acute' senses."

But yes, I hate carnivals or things with lots of blinking lights. My husband is the same way. We hate theme parks where it smells like ketchup. Ew.

For years, I couldn't eat dinner with my family because I couldn't handle the noises people make when they're eating. I still cannot eat in the car with others unless the radio is on. As a child, I would try to encourage others to chew with their mouths closed.

First grade me trying to subtly shame another 6-year-old into chewing with his/her mouth closed: "Don't you hate it when other kids chew with their mouths open, you can see all the food in their mouths and hear them chew?"

Other kid: "Uh... Yeah" chews with mouth closed for 30 seconds until he/she forgets their shame.

Beeping noises are the bane of my existance.

I can tell if someone didn't rinse their dishes according to my preference. I can taste soap residue in my food, even the smallest amount.

I hate gore. As it happens to another person, I feel it happening to me, and my ears clam up (that's the only way I can describe it... can ears clam up or recoil? But that's what they do). Don't mind people who've been long-dead though. Like mummies or bog bodies. Maybe it's the archaeologist in me.

Someone once told me to wear earplugs to bed (I lived with my noisy family at that time in my life)... But that was worse. i could hear myself creathing and my heart pumping. And they were out of sync! UGH!

I hate lots of posters upon posters. I hate messy advertisements with words and cheap pictures everywhere. I FREAKING HATE BLINKING WEB ADVERTISEMENTS!!! If had a legitimate offer of a free, I would not click on it on the princicple that no human being should ever, EVER create flashing ads! I HATE YOU, PEOPLE WHO MAKE FLASHING THINGS!!!!!!

[JTG]

I'd put myself in the highly sensitive category if i wasn't so unbothered by everything. I hate bright lights. There's not a bulb in my apartment that's stronger than 40 watt. Banging, squealing, beeping, etc are all highly irritating. Gore never bothered me really, but i think that's more of an internal reaction to seeing something shocking. The lights, sounds, etc are actually harsh on the senses to me.

I'm a very picky eater; there are several tastes and textures that i find repugnant and can't eat. Mayonnaise will actually make me throw up, and onions will stop my appetite cold unless they're prepared the certain way i've found that i like them. People do compliment me on things like the way i eat though. For example, once somebody told me i must have been "raised very well" because i was eating a funnel cake and not getting any of the powdered sugar anywhere haha

I can take high pressure situations and handle them effectively without buckling, but i always prefer that things run quietly and smoothly, if only for efficiency's sake. I do live on the inside though, so even when things are chaotic around me i have a quiet vision inside of how i want things and how i'm going to make it happen. I definitely have to recharge my batteries at the end of a busy day though. Having quiet and solitude are so necessary to keep my sanity

[tearsbymidnyt]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?

Sometimes and with some things more so than with others. I simply cannot deal with bright, flashing lights.


* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
Not so much rattled as stressed. I'm not sure what I believe will happen if I do not accomplish all I have to do in the amount of time I have to do it in, but something inside me won't let me find out what would happen. That creates major stress, because I simply have to get it done.

* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?


No...although I do tend to avoid sad shows.

* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?


Yes, at times.

* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Yes.

* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?Yes.

* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?Oh, definitely. <smiles>

* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?Sensitive, yes....shy...no.

L.

[Vaden Koch]

Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
I don't have any bright lights in my place, can't stand 'em. Blinking lights and multi-colored lights seem to overload me completely, but I love it. Especially from a plane or tall building. I think if I ever went to Vegas I would probably go on a sensory overload and pass out. I can't stand coarse fabrics and the wrong smells make me very ill.


Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
Yeah, but it allows me to focus and I end up doing a better job.


Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
I can't watch violence on TV at all, and gore is completely out of the question. The commercials for SAW and other flicks rattle me pretty badly.


Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
Doesn't everyone?


Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Absolutely! Who wouldn't if they could avoid it?


Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
-I'm often captivated by certain perfumes or scents.


Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
I suppose.


When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
Yup.

[wise]

Much of this applies to me. High sensitivity is also an attribute that some with Mitral Valve Prolapse have, which applies to me. I'm sure exactly what to attribute my sensitivity to, but it sure does exist, darn it.

[Vaden Koch]

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

weird.

i can't stand inconsistent public noises -- the sound of chewing gum in any capacity will destroy my ability to concentrate. R&B played on my bus when i was little used to make me cry because the sound was so painful. on the other hand, music is my favorite indulgence and i have to have melody on all the time. i can't do anything if i'm hungry. i hate being in period of life transition (as i am right now).

"When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating)."
- Absolutely. Can you guys do this too?? It's almost like i feel the exact way to manipulate the energy of a room to benefit other people. It's eerie sometimes.

BUT i can repress all of this because i know exactly when i'm being unreasonable.

ohhh the gum chewing gets me too.... it really gets under my skin. Sometimes at work I have to interact with a ferocious gum chewer and I feel like I might pass out, or worse. I would much rather experience physical pain in any capacity than attempt to communicate with a gum smacker.

[PortInStorm]

And what did you expect? Zealous catholic or raging atheist?

Easy there- just noticed that your posts were very... moral, for lack of a better word. Yes, yes, I know that non-religious people can be moral.

[quentin]

My friends would call me highly insensitive, actually.

[Paul V]

Easy there- just noticed that your posts were very... moral, for lack of a better word. Yes, yes, I know that non-religious people can be moral.

I was attempting to be funny, given the nature of this thread, but I'm afraid the lack of a smiley doomed my post to epic failure.

[Antares]

I hate lots of posters upon posters. I hate messy advertisements with words and cheap pictures everywhere. I FREAKING HATE BLINKING WEB ADVERTISEMENTS!!! If had a legitimate offer of a free, I would not click on it on the princicple that no human being should ever, EVER create flashing ads! I HATE YOU, PEOPLE WHO MAKE FLASHING THINGS!!!!!!

:scared: I just translated your all-caps into a woman screaming in my mind. It was not very pleasant. I tend to read posts and imagine people really saying it.

[Femme de Homme INTJ]

Yes, it was not very pleasant. If people had been around instead of me just posting a forum, you would ahve seen what you imagined.

I hope that my screeching was just as disturbing as flashing, blinking things. ;D

[BadMojo]

I scored 14 on the test... I'm sensitive... now who wants to hug me? :p

[yam]

And I scored 24... Am I so sensitive??

[Cytastic]

I scored 11. I am borderline highly sensitive. I suppose it depends on the day, or whether or not I've had enough sleep...

[Dream Weaver]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?


From the top:
No, not excessively so.
I get extremely stressed. When I'm overly stressed I tend to to lose focus on my task if I have several different people wanting something from me.
I used to avoid them when I was younger but I can stand alot of it now.
Oh, yes! I end up strangling someone (figuratively) if I didn't have some alone time.
Usually to where the least trouble is caused
Yes, instrumental jazz, and lesser known Renaissance artists.
Yes.
Yes.

[dayguard]

I read that book a long time ago when I was trying to find out what the hell was freaking wrong with me. I remembered trying to make believe that the book came as an epiphany for me. Though some descriptions resounded in me but many others didnt describe me. I can safely say that I'm not a HSP.

[Scooby]

Self-Test Results

You have indicated that 13 of the items are true of you.



Scoring:
If you answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive. But no psychological test is so accurate that an individual should base his or her life on it. We psychologists try to develop good questions, then decide on the cut off based on the average response.

If fewer questions are true of you, but extremely true, that might also justify calling you highly sensitive.

[MNRon]

Most of those apply to me.

[TheLastMohican]

I guess I am insensitive, since almost all of those traits do not fit me. How about a poll?

[Nausved]

I'm highly, highly sensitive to smell. Natural smells (even the bad ones, like the smell of rot) are usually tolerable, but some artificial smells—especially those associated with hygiene products, such as shampoo—can make me feel physically ill for hours. I strongly prefer unscented deodorant, unscented soap, etc., etc. I have to keep my distance from people who wear cologne or perfume.

I don't like socks with seams. They irritate my toes.

Flashing lights make me nauseous. I can't watch most commercials or certain TV shows like Mythbusters because they switch between shots too rapidly. Flickery fluorescent lights and monitors with a low refresh rate make me need to go lie down.

The idea of injury to eyes or to the skin underneath someone's fingernails makes me squeamish. Other than that, blood and gore do not bother me in the least (except on a purely moral level).

That's about it. I seem to be able to block out most everything else.

[Haphazard]

I'm extremely rattled by loud noises, and people laugh when I jump about three feet in the air. I'm just easily startled. Also, I have a rather bad blood phobia, but I don't actively avoid gorey movies. In fact, two of my favorite movies are The Silence of the Lambs and Sweeney Todd.

Even in a crowd of people I can make myself alone. I usually have a bubble of calm even in stressful situations. What's that supposed to mean? Sensitive or sensitive?

I think being called shy or quiet as a child is meaningless. I got called that a lot until I had something to say, at which point they promptly took it back.

[integratedvelocity]

I am very sensitive to noise, though I think it is a combination of temperament and extremely good hearing. I often try to walk and breath silently. It gives me the sensation of being an observer of the world while passing through unnoticed. Though this only works with tennis shoes, not high heels :) Last week, I couldn't focus or sleep because a roommate was listening to music on her iPod in the common room. I thought she was actually playing it through the speakers! I think being a musician has made me even more sensitive in this respect. I can't stand it when outside noises affect what I am hearing in my head, since I tend to talk through things, instead of visualizing them. For example, when I do calculations, I am more likely to say v du - u dv over v squared and then talk through the math in my head than I am to create a picture of it. Noises are my equivalent of someone dumping paint over my notebook.

Light doesn't really bother me, except, of course, when it is shining directly in my eyes.

[Latte]

15. All sorts of sensory input except pain & cold i guess. Especially sound & visual. Artificially created light bothers me a lot.

[deepFlow]

Interesting, I'm highly sensitive to the more psychological or emotional things asked about in the test, whereas the sensory things don't bother me. (Well, except for metal rubbing together, I guess...)

My wife on the other hand is pretty much the exact opposite of me in that regard.

[BadMojo]

i get annoyed by load noises like when people are talking really loud, or really loud music. I'm also susceptible to music. Music I don't like can make me rather agitated. I'm normally always in a good mood, but rap, techno or dance music can ruin that in an instance.

This works the other way around though. If I hear a great classical piece of music, I get all mellow and relaxed. Rock music makes my fiery and energized.

[ssrprotege]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?

Very, I get annoyed easily by these.

* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?

That taxes my brain.

* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?

If violence is above my threshold endurance, I do avoid it.

* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?

Totally!

* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?

I am not the most systematic person, but I will do anything to protect Self.

* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?

I am extremely sensitive to food hence tastes.

* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?

I think a lot, yet I think my inner self is not complex enough. Just I feel that it is too empty.

* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

Yes, parents worried about me....

Oh yes, and I got 21 on the test thing...





ssrprotege added to this post, 4 minutes and 5 seconds later...




I hate lots of posters upon posters. I hate messy advertisements with words and cheap pictures everywhere. I FREAKING HATE BLINKING WEB ADVERTISEMENTS!!! If had a legitimate offer of a free, I would not click on it on the princicple that no human being should ever, EVER create flashing ads! I HATE YOU, PEOPLE WHO MAKE FLASHING THINGS!!!!!!

:scared: I just translated your all-caps into a woman screaming in my mind. It was not very pleasant. I tend to read posts and imagine people really saying it.

Continuous upper-case letters certainly do not look good, and it sometimes hurts my eyes. But it's interesting that when I write I imagine myself talking out loud (in my mind) but that doesn't happen when I read the posts. :blank:

[Diamond8INTJ]

i am a highly sensitive person, and i actually read the book, it was short but full of lots of case studies and explanations ... it basically says 10 to 15 % of the population is highly sensitive, about 40 to 50 % somewhat sensitive, and the rest are plain insensitive !!!

the high sensitivity trait is actually not a psychological one, but a biological one where the person is born with highly sensitive nervous system. the impact of this, is that a highly sensitive person is fine tuned to pick up stimulation all the time on all their levels, unlike other somewhat sensitive or insensitive people. the moderate noise for regular people becomes a loud one for them, and that goes for any kind of stimulation, touch, sound, smell, sight, emotions, and so on ...

ofcourse such a trait has pluses and minuses, pluses, because such people seem to feel things on their deeper levels, notice things other people miss, enjoy finer things, and appreciate details in experiences more, being satisfied intensely and deeply by any form of stimulation on a shorter period, rather than longer one like regular people ... minuses ofcourse such as like low tolerance for stimulation of what is regular to other people, highly sensitive people enjoy higher qualities in less quantities of an experiences or stimulation, while other types simply can go on longer periods at high levels of stimulation ...

so what the book is about, is simply on a biological level of a nervous system, a trait psychology only recently started studying, and has confused it with shyness and introversion for a long time ... thanks for reading ;D

[Motor Jax]

does highly sensitive = highly defensive?

[Diamond8INTJ]

does highly sensitive = highly defensive?

in cases, yes, highly sensitive people tend to get defensive mainly for one reason, and its to avoid over stimulation in a particular situation, especially emotional ones, because they become in a state of heightened awareness of anything around them, it kinda like everything becomes magnified for there sensory system to receive ... when i am in such a situation, especially like a heated argument with my day for example, and start becoming more defensive, i stop talking, leave the room, go lock myself in mine for 30 minutes, lights out, no sound, and then i come out somewhat calm, and continue arguing ... so yes, in different emotional, mental, even physical cases, highly sensitive people can't take that much stimulation that it becomes too much, hence the defensive state to protect ones own sanity ! ;)

[EsoteriEccentri]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?

Yes, definitely.
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
Yes again, though it's usually because I've been being lazy and procrastinating.

* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
Nope. Like them. Though, I like scary ones as opposed to just plain violent ones. Slightly surreal ones where it's more about the atmosphere than the happenings.

* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?

Definitely. Definitely, definitely.

* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?

I think so. I think that's a definite too, although I hadn't realised that it was what I was doing before.

* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?

I'd like to think so. But all those things are subjective. Things that are delicate or fine to me, or works of art, yes I do.

* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?


Again, I'd like to think so but I don't think a person can really judge their own complexity or the richness of their inner life without sounding... well, conceited.

* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

A definite yes.

[Beery Swine]

I got 18, and they said if 14 or above you're probably sensitive, but most of those apply to me simply because I'm introverted.I like MY music loud, I like chaos when its in MY video game or movie, etc.

[Caucus]

Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
yes they drive me nuts

* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
No.
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
No.
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
Yes.
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Yes.
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
No.
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
Yes.
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
Yes.

And a score of 17.

[SimplyOtter]

My score is 21 out of 27.:stunned:
Am I an INFP because of that or the other way round? Mmmh. Interesting ...

What other INFPs have scored? I'm curious.

[Caucus]

I'm sensitive physically. I'm sensitive to certain foods, caffeine, loud repetitive noises, bright lights and too much stimulli. I was quite shy as a child and often in my own thoughts.
I am not sensitive emotionally. I do not have a fragile personality.

[Shaz]

My score is 21 out of 27.:stunned:
Am I an INFP because of that or the other way round? Mmmh. Interesting ...

What other INFPs have scored? I'm curious.

I'm not quite an INFP but I scored the same.


I read the book a few years ago and found it quite... negative. I was 18 and had always seen my high sensitivity as a strenght and a gift, though it was sometimes hard. Reading the book I got the impression that it was written for highly insecure people who thought, or maybe had been told that it was only a handicap.

I'm wondering whether this is due to American culture? You guys have the reputation of being louder/more demonstrative than us Europeans. Maybe it is harder in the US? It does depend on the culture I think. My INFJ brother is just so happy in Japan.

[Max]

Only these 7 applied to me:


*I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.

*I have a rich, complex inner life.

*I am conscientious.

*When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).

*I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.

*I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.

*When I must compete or be observed while performing a task, I become so nervous or shaky that I do much worse than I would otherwise.

[Erika Redmark]

I'm sensitive physically. I'm sensitive to certain foods, caffeine, loud repetitive noises, bright lights and too much stimulli. I was quite shy as a child and often in my own thoughts.
I am not sensitive emotionally. I do not have a fragile personality.

I'm the opposite. I didn't identify with the physical stuff, mostly the psychological stuff. My score was 11.

[NephilimAzrael]

12 points of high value. Rather sensitive.

[reb]

supposedly, i am.
r

[zibber]

I had 16, but some I wasn't 100% on.

[Synnik]

I got a 4 on the test.

I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.

I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days,into bed or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.

I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.

I have a rich,complex inner life.

[Sequoia]

I am hsp, but not psychologically fragile. I am sensitive to stimuli including loud noise, bright light, strong oders, etc. I did not know about hsp until fairly recently and it explained a lot.

Unlike many hsp's, I do not have a lack of self esteem.

[Jenny Penny]

14 for me! I've always known sounds bother me, and I do startle extremely easy. I am highly sensitive to other people's rudeness in the forms of noise they give off and do not seem to care and/or notice its effect on others around them. For example, there is talk radio on across the way from me right now. The sound of people's gum smacking also drives me insane. I think, more than the sound, it's the people's rudeness that bothers me. Either way, I'm very sensitive to others and their behaviors.

[EdmontonAspie]

I scored 15 yeses out of 27, but
several of them are exceptionally true.
So, I guess I am highly sensitive.

[enWTFp]

A little bellow the threshold. I'm very sensitive, but not overly so. I'm also able to control it when needed. Still, for example, the weather or the natural environment have some effect on my mood. I like storms. I love heavy summer rains. I go outside and play apocalyptic tunes on my keyboard.

[curiousjane]

18/20 Most Likely High Sensitive.

(Probably because I become flustered by extreme multi-tasking when it involves other people talking to me and depending on me.)

[Deepdelver]

Yes, I am highly sensitive. People tell me this all the time.

[deinotes]

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

weird.

i can't stand inconsistent public noises -- the sound of chewing gum in any capacity will destroy my ability to concentrate. R&B played on my bus when i was little used to make me cry because the sound was so painful. on the other hand, music is my favorite indulgence and i have to have melody on all the time. i can't do anything if i'm hungry. i hate being in period of life transition (as i am right now).

"When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating)."
- Absolutely. Can you guys do this too?? It's almost like i feel the exact way to manipulate the energy of a room to benefit other people. It's eerie sometimes.

BUT i can repress all of this because i know exactly when i'm being unreasonable.
I have the situation that i can't sleep when someone else is doing a mental task in home e.g. i have no problem with someone watching tv but i really can feel it when someone using the internet playing video games.
My mother was also depressed for a while and the zombielike atmosphere in home was driving me insane.

[lancelot]

Psychologist Elaine Aron has described a personality type called the "Highly Sensitive Person" or HSP. I am one myself and I have found that many "I" types are as well. Here are the characteristic behaviors:

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?

(copied from the site: The Highly Sensitive Person)

here is a link to that site with a self test.
To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

I am interested in how many INTJs would describe themselves as highly sensitive.

Interesting thread, I would consider myself sensitive, but many of the questions don't relate to me. For example I used to enjoy watching movies about serial killers, not because I liked violence, but I was considering a career in law enforcement, the movies were intellectual with a good plot, I also enjoyed spy movies for a similar reason.

I don't like confrontation, I would rather talk to a person politely face to face, yet I can take on a person who attacks me, this is because often they are not very good at recalling details or constructing an argument; I have noticed they resort to raising their voice or loosing control, perhaps they are not self aware, and don't live in a world of cause and effect and logic and reason.

I think as INTJ many of us are sensitive, and emotional, yet not prevented from reaching our goals!

[Freedom Geek]

Got 8 of them (in the test you linked to) so probably not.

[MrCynical]

22

I dont like loud noises or too much stimulation.

[Aurelia]

I scored as highly sensitive (15 out of 27). I have always been extremely sound sensitive. Someone walking outside of my house will wake me up in the middle of the night from a deep sleep. I have to wear ear plugs while sleeping next to my husband because his breathing bothers me lol.

[DurrRuhRurr]

I got 16 on the online test, the following apply to me:

I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.

Other people's moods affect me.

I tend to be very sensitive to pain.

I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days,into bed or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.

I have a rich,complex inner life.

I am deeply moved by the arts or music.

I am conscientious.

I startle easily.

I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time.

I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.

I try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things.

I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.

Being very hungry creates a strong reaction in me,disrupting my concentration or mood.

I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.

I make it a high priority to arrange my life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations.

When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy.

[Nuzke]

I am easily overwhelmed by strong sensory input.
I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.
I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days,into bed or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.
I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
I am easily overwhelmed by things like bright lights, strong smells,coarse fabrics,or sirens close by.
I have a rich,complex inner life.
I am made uncomfortable by loud noises.
I am deeply moved by the arts or music.
I am conscientious.
When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).
I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.
Being very hungry creates a strong reaction in me,disrupting my concentration or mood.
I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.
I find it unpleasant to have a lot going on at once.
I make it a high priority to arrange my life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations.
I am bothered by intense stimuli, like loud noises or chaotic scenes.
When I must compete or be observed while performing a task, I become so nervous or shaky that I do much worse than I would otherwise.
When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy.


Thats alot :cry:

[rara avis]

20 out of 27.

But I'm having a hard time with the label and the way the overall idea is framed on the website. It makes a person sound kind of ...sissified. :undecided: Like I might succumb to the vapors. But maybe that's just me; I have a kind of allergy to the self-help environment. :p

I also hate it when people interpret my reservedness as shyness. I'm not shy, I just don't want to talk to you.

[DurrRuhRurr]

20 out of 27.

But I'm having a hard time with the label and the way the overall idea is framed on the website. It makes a person sound kind of ...sissified. :undecided: Like I might succumb to the vapors. But maybe that's just me; I have a kind of allergy to the self-help environment. :p

I find it the contrary. I find that it helps HSPs to realize that their sensitivity is a gift rather than a handicap.

I help run one of several HSP forums that recognizes high sensitivity as a gift rather than something to be "cured."

[flix]

My score is 22.

I remember the situations on christmas when all the family with all the relatives gathered and we were all sitting at large table. Everybody was talking. So unstructured, so loud.

I couldn't stand it and I sometimes just escaped to my room, spend time on my computer and was happy again. Being alone. No stupid people around me talking about the weather report.

[Matrix]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
Definitely these things get me exasperated.
* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
It is somewhat rattling but can be bared.
* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
Not at all.
* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
Usually prefer to do this since childhood.
* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Yes
* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
Yes
* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
It is complex but it does not fit a rich criteria
* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
This one is something that constantly follows me. I was never shy to begin with.

[luisluis]

"You have indicated that 7 of the items are true of you."

so i guess i'm not, i can get pretty conscientious though and sometimes when i dont read anything for months and just play videogames (like summer time or winter breaks) i can get overwhelmed by strong sensory input. so i would contribut anything along that line to that.

[dalidaisy]

I'm defective, I only checked 5 boxes...

[Sequoia]

I would like to point out that the person who coined the term "Highly Sensitive Person", or Dr. Aron, on her site focuses on copy mechanisms to dealing with what this is; the behavioral adaptations.

I read her actual research papers presented for peer review.

As I understand it, HSP refers to the neurological wiring of the brain; those with HSP take in far more information from a given amount of environmental data than the rest of the population. This information can be from any input, visual, aural, sensory, even subtle things like body language and emotions. It is independent of personality type, although most are IN types.

Many, but not all HSP's also have acute senses; so they pick up more information to send to the brain which then extract still more information from it. I fall into this category. Note, not all with acute senses are also HSP.

What all this means is we can pick up on something wrong, much sooner than others; we will react to chemicals, medicines and the like much sooner, and we will go into informational overload much sooner from loud noise, bright flashing light or other intense stimuli. The upside is we can really enjoy the nuances of taste, smell, color, music, nature, etc. For someone who is HSP, most people seem to be unaware of so much.

[Eric86]

Well, I just went through this list again, more honestly this time, and 24 of them apply to me. The only ones that don't are the ones about caffeine (it has no effect on me whatsoever), loud noises (though there are certain ones that will bother me, but usually it doesn't bother me), and violent entertainment (real violence does bother me, but fantasy violence does not, though certain movies that have scenes involving torture [especially of women, or anything where women are treated badly] really bother me a lot and sometimes even make me cry. I remember watching The Passion of the Christ in the theater, and I cried really hard throughout almost the whole entire movie, and kept crying throughout all of the credits, and wasn't able to stop until about half an hour after the credits were done. I absolutely could not stand it...and I never want to watch that movie again.).

[Kele-De]

I answered a strong yes to 24 of the questions.

Raw onions, raw cilantro, techno music, florescent lights, that frickin sporadic high pitched quad beep in the background on MSNBC, flies that I cannot kill (crickets can live), alarms, scented candles, (cigarette smoke, car exhaust, perfume can trigger migraines), fabric softener, headlights in traffic at night, high heels on hard floors, corduroy pants in motion, creaking doors, clanking of ceramic, glass or metal, screaming, fake violence (for some reason I enjoy boxing and ultimate fighting), whistles at sporting events, cartoon character voices, local commercials, singing voices that aren't in key, pianos out of tune, poorly mixed and mastered music, people talking over the band that is creating beautiful music... these are all the bane of my existence.

Balanced music (specifically tenor voice, strings and brass), wind in pine forest, silence in sunshine, morning and evening sun, lavender, fresh pine and any chorus of bird is my refuge.

I purchase only unscented products. And I invested a C note each on Shure noise isolating earphones and Smith polarized sunglasses which both enable me to function better in the mechanized world.

Oh, and I start every morning with a double short latte at Starbucks with the fattiest milk but I can't take any caffeine past 3PM.

[fatkattykat]

I just wanted to make an additional observation.
I know that being an HSP does not have anything to do with my Meyers Briggs. It's like all toads are frogs but not all frogs are toads. But a lot of "I" types are highly sensitive too.
I'm on a couple of HSP boards. These boards, by and large, are populated by "ISxx". After reading a lot of the posts here and doing some deeper research into the basic differences I now understand why I was getting into so much trouble over there. I was accused of not being "sensitive" (the greatest horror ever on those boards) and I had a hard time getting along with the "S"s and the "F"s. They would post all this rainbow-lolly-pop I WUB U, crap that would drive me ape shit. ****takes deep breath and undoes tight clothes***** over here I can relax and talk my quantum physics.

Hi there, I remember you from the HSP boards. That being said, I am an HSP (scored a 19). Not all of the stuff applies to me. I tend to like a lot of "robust" things (spicy foods, creepy movies, controversial subjects), but I get physically over-stimulated very easily. It seems to have gotten worse lately (though working and getting my masters at the same time MIGHT have something to do with it lol). Just getting through a normal day is a struggle and I feel so fatigued.

I am most sensitive in the sense that I tend to take a lot of things personally, and am very inwardly drawn. In a crazy sense, one may say I was narcissistic in that I tend to view things on how they affect me personally. But I do manage to be empathetic at times (too much so for my own good that I get suckered sometimes).

[BobbitSneazer]

Wow it's really surprising that this many intjs are so sensetive. I would think we wouldn't be. I scored an 8, which is low. I'm almost always zoned out inside my own mind, and it takes a lot to make me come out of it.

[3am]

I certainly am. I've known for quite a while now. I don't think you benefit much at all from knowing, apart from the obvious enlightenment on why you've reacted to things so powerfully for most of your life & so on. I truly don't see it as a "special" quality or a gift, as it's purported so much to be - regardless of the quixotic appeal and self-absorbed impulse to do so.

[darynthe]

I got 16. I am sensitive indeed, however some of the descriptions didn't apply to me at all. For instance I need to do many things at once to have enough stimulation not to be bored senseless.

[slothsaver]

Apart from the aversion to "violent films and tv," I don't really fit any of those, and the main reason I avoid the violence is because it's senseless, highly illogical and depressing, especially when it comes to news.

[altoid]

I checked 16.

If you answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive

[JohnDoe]

You have indicated that 26 of the items are true of you.

For the record there were 27. I like some violent movies.

[Amphorian]

I only checked 18.

Most of it comes from my migraines or natural tendcy of getting sick looking at gore/blood/open wounds though.

[sifu]

"You have indicated that 22 of the items are true of you."

Luckily, I have learned to compensate for most of them in some fashion.

[Plastikcat]

You have indicated that 11 of the items are true of you.

[The Maelstrom]

You have indicated that 26 of the items are true of you.

For the record there were 27. I like some violent movies.

Guess what? Same here :p

INFJ thing? *shrugs

[Anreader]

23 of 27

[uneingenue]

i answered "yes" to 20 questions, but some of them seem to denote irritability and introversion, not sensitivity.

[reckful]

I scored 16.

I don't know anything about the HSP theory, but this particular test seems to me to be a hopeless mishmash, because the questions seem to tap into at least 4 different temperament dimensions.

I'm a Limbic INTJ, "Calm/Limbic" being the 5th dimension of the Big 5 typology that doesn't have a corresponding MBTI dimension. Limbic people are more anxiety-prone and irritation-prone, among other things.

The HSP test linked to in the OP clearly taps into (1) J vs. P (with items like "I am conscientious," "I try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things," and "Changes in my life shake me up"), (2) Limbic vs. Calm (with items like "My nervous system sometimes feels so frazzled that I just have to go off by myself," "I startle easily," and "I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time"), and (3) I vs. E (multiple items; introverts are generally more vulnerable to "overstimulation" than extraverts).

Since I'm I, J and Limbic, I'm set to be a high scorer on all the items that tap into those dimensions.

But I suspect there's a 4th dimension the test also taps into, and it may be the uniquely "HSP" dimension. Here are the items I didn't check:


I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.
I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
I am easily overwhelmed by things like bright lights, strong smells,coarse fabrics,or sirens close by.
I am made uncomfortable by loud noises.
When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).
I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.
I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art.

I thought the "loud noises" item was a particularly poor one. Everybody's made uncomfortable by loud noises, depending on how loud and how abrasive. Do I get more uncomfortable than average? I'm not sure, but my best guess is I'm average.

[thiagofralves]

Scoring:
If you answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive. But no psychological test is so accurate that an individual should base his or her life on it. We psychologists try to develop good questions, then decide on the cut off based on the average response.

If fewer questions are true of you, but extremely true, that might also justify calling you highly sensitive.

[JohnDoe]

I thought the "loud noises" item was a particularly poor one. Everybody's made uncomfortable by loud noises, depending on how loud and how abrasive. Do I get more uncomfortable than average? I'm not sure, but my best guess is I'm average.

If the Loud noises one applies to you, you know EXACTLY what they mean. I don't know how better to describe it.

[reckful]

If the Loud noises one applies to you, you know EXACTLY what they mean. I don't know how better to describe it.

Sounds like I was right not to check it, then.

[skycloud86]

Self-Test Results

You have indicated that 3 of the items are true of you.

Scoring:
If you answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive. But no psychological test is so accurate that an individual should base his or her life on it. We psychologists try to develop good questions, then decide on the cut off based on the average response.

If fewer questions are true of you, but extremely true, that might also justify calling you highly sensitive.

[azelismia]

17 for me. I was definitely defined as sensitive by my family growing up. I was always conscientious about my role in the world and the effects my actions have on the environment around me and the need to be aware of the whole rather than just the here and now.

Here is an example that my grandmother has never let go of; When I was four we went to the beach. She ran a small day care so there were about 8 small children with us other than me. We were playing with the hermit crabs. We all wanted to take them home. I got pretty far with one, she saw it and explained to me that it would die if I took it. That my obtaining it would provide a momentary joy for me at the cost of the critters life. I put it back. I did not think the advantage was great enough for that cost.

Someone else did take one. she blamed it on me. she's not believed me all these years. I think maybe it's finally gotten thru that I put it back now that I STILL say I didn't take it and it's been 34 years.

I was not described as shy although it was noted I always appeared that way to strangers.

I shock easily. At various places of work it became a game with the guys to sneak up on me and watch me jump and perhaps scream. Loud noises put me on edge.

I don't mind some violence in my movies but I do not appreciate gore. I don't just withdraw on over-stimulation, I always prefer to withdraw to a quiet area. I have mild agoraphobia I think.

I hate telephones because they put me on the spot to come up with something to say on the spot. I prefer to only speak when I have something to say. Trying to think of chit chat is painful.

I hate to admit this, but a fine high solo in an opera has been known to bring a tear to my eye. I always feel somewhat manipulated after that. lol. I can't say I understand it. There is a certain pure high tone that never fails to bring a tear to my eye: violins and sopranos...

Rich and complex innerlife, oh my yes... My dreams at night tend to be in the form of complex story lines and as a kid I could turn that on into a day dream form in boring situations. I can still do it if I focus. It makes situations where a long wait is unavoidable with no other entertainment available to be tolerable.

[dragonsscout]

Yes to 9 of the questions.

I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.
Other people's moods affect me.
I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
I have a rich,complex inner life.
I am deeply moved by the arts or music.
I am conscientious.
I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time. Weak
I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.
When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy. Weak

[charolastra]

No need to take the test- was categorized as a HSP (highly sensitive person) as a child by a psychologist because of my meltdowns LONG after I should have grown out of them.

[Cherie]

Well, now I know or think that I am a HSP. I went to the site link and scored 25. It said if you sore 14 or higher than you probably are one. Thanks for the link very interesting.

[lincoln]

Who is not going to say that they have a rich inner life...etc etc... I got a 25 though. Some questions were a little...ehh...but I know that I'm markedly different from most people. I want to scream "doesn't that bother you?" "how the @#$% can you deal with this" etc etc...Sometimes I feel that when I'm most tired I can fit in with people. It's like my nervous system is finally suitable.

[gius]

Interesting to see so many people write "no" for HSP
So maybe you guys wouldn't technically be an introvert... You're rather 'balanced.'

I read about introversion before I learned about MBTI
All the things in the list for HSP are part of 'introvert symptoms'


I score high...
but thank god I don't have a temper
or I'd be screaming at people to be quiet all the time.
So I learn to control it...

[yoginimama]

No one who knows me will be particularly surprised that I got a 26. My entire family is HSP.

[blather]

My ex was a HSP. I am decidedly not. Boy was that a problem...

It seems like HSP is independent of MTBI. I'd like to see how the two interact statistically.

[anumericalevil]

You have indicated that 23 of the items are true of you.

I've been psychologically diagnosed as an HSP when I was around 9 or 10- I was, ironically, sent to see a shrink because my behaviour was disruptive to the class' environment. I have a very sensitive immune system, olfactory sense, skin and hearing as well. I think it comes in a package...?

I don't know why either; both my parents seem normal, but my brother is allergic to peanuts and is asthmatic. Maybe our genetic information isn't one of the stronger ones =x

[lucky flute]

* Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
Sometimes. Depends why they're there.

* Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
Yes, definitely!

* Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
No, I don't mind violent shows.

* Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
Yes, I need my alone time.

* Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Absolutely.

* Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
Oh yeah.

* Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
It's hard for me to be objective about this, but I think I do.

* When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
Yes. My report cards were always straight A's with a side comment of "she's too quiet".

[Bwill]

I qualify for this in spades. Also I discovered recently that folks who experience this, have something in common with people who have Asperger Syndrome, and also those who are autistic. Just FYI.

[Silverity]

I scored 13, making me about as sensitive as a brick.

On a more serious note, the questions I did tick off had little to do with sensitivity per se, and everything to do with anxiety. When I think of sensitivity I think in terms of biological predisposition (like how some people have very sensitive eyes), or personality type (I can't really put it in words, some people just ARE sensitive). For myself, I am not sensitive by either of those descriptions but after acquiring PTSD I do react to certain types of stimuli, I wouldn't consider this being sensitive though. I didn't really like the test for that reason, I thought it could be a bit misleading. Maybe I'm over or under-thinking the issue though.

[liquidzilla]

I got 24! I knew I was highly sensitive though. I always get shaky in noisy places and once even lost my vision when a trucks horn went off near me. I also hate bright lights and get very unnerved by strong smells, tastes and odd textures. I think this could be partly genetic as me, my mum and both my sisters are highly sensitive (me and my twin sister more so though).

[Carobmoth]

I scored 27 out of 27, though I would qualify this with the fact that I like /certain/ violent movies and /some/ loud music. For me, I think the element of control is important. If I am mentally prepared to watch the movie, or choose the music myself, and am comfortable in my environment, then I can handle the stimulus a lot better. If someone suddenly cranks up a tune, however, or touches me suddenly, or turns on a bright light, I sometimes experience severe reactions, including physical pain and the desperate need to escape. Also, some of my sensitivities come from having multiple allergies. It's difficult for me to stay in other peoples' houses for long as I'm almost always exposed to foods or perfumes that cause me varying degrees of discomfort. I've often been labelled as an 'arrogant bitch' or worse by people who think that I'm just being difficult or picky. It's hard to get through to someone that a gathering that they look forward to as fun can be a nightmarish scenario for me. Even many of my own family members will light up perfumed candles in front of me, or sit too close to me, or serve me foods which contain dangerous allergens. I've often said to my husband, 'Do I have to have an all out allergic reaction before they take me seriously?' Much of the time, I just stay home. It's not the best solution, but I get tired of having to be constantly vigilant when I'm in an unfamiliar and more unpredictable situation.

C.

[EmilyEvenstar]

I took the test online and it says that I'm a highly sensitive person.

[Reversed]

Who is not going to say that they have a rich inner life...etc etc... I got a 25 though. Some questions were a little...ehh...but I know that I'm markedly different from most people. I want to scream "doesn't that bother you?" "how the @#$% can you deal with this" etc etc...Sometimes I feel that when I'm most tired I can fit in with people. It's like my nervous system is finally suitable.

I recognize the bold part. I often tire myself out on a daily basis just so I can work out my energy. That way I'm less sensitive to stimuli when I'm around people or in a busy environment.
Doing this too much can work in the opposite way though: When making myself *too* tired I become worn out :(.

I don't relate to your need for screaming about 'doing certain things'. If I find something difficult to handle I'll just steer away from it or talk about it.
I've found that "alienating" myself (even if it's just for a little while) from busy situations can do miracles, maybe you can try that to keep your cool? Basically I try not to be TOO bound to people in order to have my natural comfort.
Another helpful thing to me is to keep enough variation in and around me so that I'm kept up with things without feeling "sick" of them, but that also relates to my tendency to get bored or distracted.

I got 21 on the test. I am most probably HSP but not very extreme. I can handle a great deal of things but in order to function decently I need my kick backs sometimes. Or else I'm overwhelmed and start dwelling off, feeling nasty, weirded out and at my worst; irritated and gloomy (to put it lightly).

[Aristarce]

Hmmm I scored 6.
Puts me somewhere between granite and marble I believe.

[Silas]

You have indicated that 19 of the items are true of you.

You answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive.

[saras]

I scored 21 of 27, highly sensitive then, as I didnt know :huh:

[rhiesa]

26 out of 27. I always assumed most people felt like this >.>

[Debbie]

I answered 16 of the questions, and according to this test, I am highly sensitive .

[Aiss]

24 in the test. I also enjoy spicy food to the point when everyone but my sister thinks I'm crazy. Many of the point mentioned on that site are disturbingly familiar. I'm definitely HSP.

... so, is there a cure?

[greenzebra]

I scored 7.
Noise and bright light (even bright sun) are the only things that make me feel VERY uncomfortable. Especially noise.

[Austin018]

eh, I took the quiz and had 13 "yes", so I am boarderline I guess...

[Bioplasmoid]

I took the HSP test a long time ago, and didn't like the look of the questions, before I answered them...so I answered dishonestly to try and lower my score in advance. I scored about average as a result at the time.

Recently I 're-discovered' this thread, and decided I am tired of living in denial. I could easily tick yes to almost every question, although this would have been more the case when i was in my early 20s. To be frank, as far as I can tell I have managed to condition myself to cope with many types of stimuli much better than when younger, by purposefully exposing myself to them. Or at least it seems purposefull now, in retrospect. At the time I would force myself to watch genres of film or tv that made me uncomfortable, and to listen to music that I instinctively hated, although I think that this was more an expression of a tendancy towards self-destruction as a form of emotional release, however unhealthy.

This process has actually enriched my life, very much, so I am gratefull for some (but certainly not all !) of the cognitive dissonance and life dramas I have experienced since around my early teens. My childhood on the other hand, was a dreamy, disconnected and happy time for me on the whole.

[gius]

bioplasmoid you mean you are better off accepting the way you are? that exposing yourself to uncomfortable experiences doesn't actually make it go away

but they helped that it made you realise you are HSP?

[Bene Gesserit]

I am interested in how many INTJs would describe themselves as highly sensitive

My testresults (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.[/url]):
You have indicated that 22 of the items are true of you.

= highly sensitive

"If you answered more than fourteen of the questions as true of yourself, you are probably highly sensitive. But no psychological test is so accurate that an individual should base his or her life on it. We psychologists try to develop good questions, then decide on the cut off based on the average response.

If fewer questions are true of you, but extremely true, that might also justify calling you highly sensitive."
from To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

[gwilendiel]

I had to check every box....

[Zombicide]

Sixteen

[Deliberator]

'Highly sensitive' apparently means 'delicate wilting flower'. No.

Checked 8 boxes. I'm a rock!

[iglookazoo]

I got eighteen...

[coffeeholic]

Self-Test Results

You have indicated that 20 of the items are true of you.

......................
im not sure that this test is very acurate

[Introspiritual]

I'm a Limbic INTJ, "Calm/Limbic" being the 5th dimension of the Big 5 typology that doesn't have a corresponding MBTI dimension. Limbic people are more anxiety-prone and irritation-prone, among other things.

I recently located an MBTI variant (form J) (To view links or images in this forum your post count must be 2 or greater. You currently have 0 posts._formats) that seems to utilize the Neuroticism component of the Big 5 typology - which is probably what HSP-ness correlates to. If not for cost ($arm+leg+certification), I'm sure the manual would be an interesting read.

INFxs tend to be the most likely to score high on the HSP scale, but given the INxJ shared traits of Ni lead and Se tail, I'd expect to see a fair number of INTJs score high as well.

(scored 22 myself - and am limbic as well)

[sadf]

Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby? yes.

Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time? no.

Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows? definitely not

Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place where you can have privacy and relief from the situation? sometimes

Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art? yes

When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy? yes