Sensitivity refers to how easily you are disturbed by changes in the environment. It is also referred to as Sensory Threshold or threshold of responsiveness. If you are sensitive you may be distracted by a door slamming and will not be able to maintain focus. Whereas those who tend not to be sensitive to external noises are able to maintain their focus.

Do you get bothered by external stimuli in the environment, eg noises, textures, lights, etc. or do you just seem not to be bothered by them at all and simply ignore them?

SENSITIVITY

          Nonreactive___________________________________________Sensitive

Tips for Managing the Extremes

For the those with high sensitivity:

• Acknowledge their feelings and provide ways for them to make themselves more comfortable.
• Layer clothes to allow for adjustments on days that are too warm or too cold.
• Avoid overstimulation, e.g., loud music, strobe lights, noisy groups of people.

For someone with low sensitivity:

• Notice external cues by paying attention to sounds in the environment, odors, and changes in the colors of stoplights leaves etc. Use mindfulness techniques.
• Become aware of interpersonal cues, such as facial expressions, body language, personal space.

Reference: Wikipedia

Photocredit: Nevin Taylor 2008