The Effect of Environment on Psychological Outcomes of the Highly Sensitive Person: A Systematic Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Those high in the temperament trait Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) are more at risk of mental health issues due to sensitivity to unfavourable environments, while thriving in favourable environments. The literature has grown exponentially in recent years examining high SPS mental health outcomes in applied settings. In this systematic scoping review, we mapped and evaluated the methodological rigueur of existing research on the impact of physical, psychological and social environments on psychological outcomes of those with high levels of SPS. Methods: Conducted following the guidelines of Arksey and O’ Malley (2005) and following the PRISMA-ScR checklist. 671 studies were screened and 63 studies were included in the final review. Results: Thematic analysis indicated the environments most studied were sensory, occupational, and social environments, particularly parenting and childhood circumstances. Negative psychological outcomes were most represented. Paradigms included surveys, experimental tasks and little qualitative research. The quality of the studies was generally good with potential for methodological improvements. Conclusions: The SPS-environment association for each type of environment needs to be more systematically investigated, lifespan studies are missing and studies are lacking on underlying mechanisms and positive environments allowing high SPS to thrive.