Update Consent
< Back
Slide 4 of 9

Are There Different Types of Highly Sensitive People?

All highly sensitive people experience their sensitivity differently depending on personality and life experiences, Snow said. A few common differences in sensitivity are:

Introverted HSPs: The majority of HSPs are introverts, will need a lot of recharge time after socialising, and prefer deep one-on-one or small group connections.

Extroverted HSPs: McGreal said that not all HSPs are introverted! Snow agrees, saying that Dr. Aron's research shows that 30 percent of HSPs are actually extroverted, and may seek out more social engagement than the highly sensitive introverts. They want more one-on-one connection and downtime compared to the non-HSP extrovert.

High sensation seeking (HSS) HSPs: Some HSPs are also high sensation seekers, meaning they will have more need for novelty and thrilling experiences. Despite being more adventurous or thrill-seeking than other HSPs, they will still be conscientious about risks.

Some HSPs may identify with being an "empath," McGreal said, relating to a more spiritual life that may be associated with heightened insight or intuition such as clairvoyance or sixth sense abilities. Judith Orloff has written a great deal on this topic and identifies as an empath.

Image Source: Getty / Antonio_Diaz