Highly Sensitive Person Test (HSP)
27-item scale based on Elaine Aron's Highly Sensitive Person Scale; yes/no format, scores 0-27.
Show Details
Introduction
The Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Scale is a 27-item self-report measure developed by psychologist Dr. Elaine N. Aron and published in 1997. It assesses Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS), a normally distributed temperament trait characterized by deeper cognitive processing of sensory input, higher emotional reactivity, and greater ease of overstimulation.
The HSP Scale uses a simple yes/no format. Each 'yes' response counts as one point, with total scores ranging from 0 to 27. Based on Aron's research, a score of 12 or higher is generally used as a cut-off to identify individuals who are likely to be Highly Sensitive Persons. The trait is found in roughly 15-20% of the population and is considered a normal variation in temperament rather than a disorder.
References
- Aron, E. N., & Aron, A. (1997). Sensory-processing sensitivity and its relation to introversion and emotionality. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 73(2), 345-368. 10.1037/0022-3514.73.2.345
- Aron, E. N. (1997). The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You. Broadway Books.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have another question? Let us know.
What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person?
High sensitivity, or sensory-processing sensitivity, is a temperament trait identified by Aron and Aron in 1997. Sensitive people process information more deeply, notice subtle details, can be more easily overstimulated, and often respond strongly to both positive and negative experiences.
Is high sensitivity the same as introversion?
No. Although the traits correlate, research shows they are distinct: roughly 30% of highly sensitive people are extroverts. Sensitivity is about depth of processing and stimulation thresholds, not sociability.
Is being highly sensitive a disorder?
No. Sensory-processing sensitivity is a normal temperament variation found in about 15-20% of people (and in over 100 species). It brings challenges — like easier overstimulation — and strengths, such as awareness and empathy.
Is this test scientific?
It is based on the HSP Scale from Aron and Aron's published research. The concept is an active research area with good but still growing evidence; treat the result as self-reflection, not a clinical assessment.
Learn More
Absorption Scale (Educational Version)
A 10-item educational measure of the tendency to become deeply absorbed in experiences
Misophonia Sound Sensitivity Scale
Assess your sensitivity to specific sounds that trigger strong emotional reactions. This 12-question scale helps identify misophonia symptoms and their impact on daily life.
Big Five Personality Test
FeaturedAssess the five major personality traits: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.
