Often, the immediate thing that com

Often, the immediate thing that comes to mind when people hear the word "sensitive" is that a person gets their feelings hurt really easily. Whereas this kind of emotional sensitivity can certainly be a part of being an HSP, it by no means "defines" the trait, and a cultural bias in which "sensitivity" is equated with "weakness" represents one area in which many HSPs often feel like they are being unfairly-- and negatively-- judged.

We must keep in mind that many of our cultural biases against ideas and concepts are based on opinions, rather than facts. Making a statement such as "Susan is TOO sensitive!" is an opinion, and nothing more.

One of the most important things to remember about the HSP trait is that it is, ultimately, neutral. It has benefits, as well as disadvantages. It is also a physiological trait. A Highly Sensitive Person does not "choose" to be sensitive and they do not "become" sensitive as a result of something happening in their lives (more about that, later!). HSPs are born-- and wired-- that way.

So let's examine some aspects of High Sensitivity, from a more thorough and balanced perspective.