Designing with Sensitivity in Mind
Written by: Clare Kumar, Executive & Productivity Coach (HSP, ADHD)
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Have you ever spent time in a place where it feels too noisy, or the lights too bright? This is a regular experience for the one in five who are Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), the common term for the genetic trait more formally known as Sensory Processing Sensitivity. Despite being identified in the mid-90s and well-researched since then, the HSP trait remains relatively unknown compared to other neurodivergent and often sensitive ways of being such as ADHD, dyslexia, and autism.
A highly sensitive person’s nervous system is “always on”. A helpful analogy is the meerkat who stands on its hind legs sniffing the air, scanning the surrounding area, and listening for potential threats to allow the others in the mob to feed, rest, and play. This heightened awareness is a matter of survival for the group. Interestingly, research confirms that while highly sensitive people perform above average, they are also the quickest to burn out.
While high sensitivity brings valuable talents, it can also leave individuals vulnerable to an overwhelming world. The SEED Model of High Sensitivity™ offers an easy way to remember both strengths and struggles:
Sensitivity
💪 Our ability to be sensitive to subtle stimuli makes us great “noticers”.
☹️ With our nervous systems being “always on”, we tire more easily.
Empathy
💪 We have an innate ability to understand what others are feeling.
☹️ Sensing others’ suffering can leave us feeling emotionally exhausted and limit our effectiveness
Emotional Responsiveness
💪 Increased brain activation in response to stimuli confirms that we receive robust cues to help process information.
☹️ Receiving strong signals without having the time available, intent, or ability to process them can lead to potentially offensive outbursts.
Deep Processing
💪 Our intense thinking can lead to rich, creative solutions.
☹️ If left unchecked, our conscientious natures and desires for quality outcomes can mean that we suffer from perfectionism and end up spinning.
While it is critical for HSPs to understand how the trait shows up and to build skills to self-regulate, space and schedule design can go a long way to furthering the ability to sustain energy. A priority is minimizing sensory input. For example, circadian lighting can help avoid the harsh contrast of misapplied daylight in a dark space. Soft-close doors and soft furnishings can dampen sound. Products can be designed for maximum comfort with respect to shape, texture, and smooth function. This is a group of people for who ergonomics cannot be ignored.
In addition, scheduling breaks is critical as HSPs require more rest and recovery during the day. Meerkats get it – they take turns allowing for rest between posts on duty. The establishment of rest spaces must be furthered with a culture that permits rather than punishes pausing throughout the day.
My anecdotal research tells me that high sensitivity is over-represented in the design community. Consider this an invitation to use your powers of observation and creativity to take care of the highly sensitive around you.
Bottom line, this is a community for whom inclusive design can mean the difference between sustaining the ability to make rich contributions and exclusion. It’s time to offer more options that to burn out or opt out and reap the rewards.
RESOURCES
Aron, Dr. Elaine. The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You, 25th Anniversary Edition. New York, Citadel, June 2020. (First published in 1996)
