High Sensitivity to Interpersonal Interaction: Development of a Measurement

Abstract

Interpersonal sensitivity is an aspect of Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) that has been unexplored precisely despite potentially playing an even more significant role in individuals with SPS. The results of various studies on individuals with SPS suggest that this trait is accompanied by a high interpersonal sensitivity, which refers to an increased sensitivity to the emotional states of individuals with whom one interacts; however, no measurement instrument directly evaluates it. This research aimed to develop an instrument to assess high interpersonal sensitivity and analyze its psychometric properties. Four hundred twenty-nine university students aged 18 to 29 participated. Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported a three-factor structure (awareness of subtleties, overstimulation, and persistent effect) consistent with Exploratory Factor Analysis findings. The internal consistency values for the total scale and the three factors were adequate, and the validity evidence was congruent with the construct. Despite needing further studies, the High Interpersonal Sensitivity Scale (HISS) shows adequate psychometric properties for measuring high interpersonal sensitivity in adults.

Keywords

• adults
• high interpersonal sensitivity
• measurement
• sensory processing sensitivity