Individual Differences and Susceptibility to Burnout Syndrome: Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Its Relation to Exhaustion and Disengagement

Abstract

The aim of the study is to analyze the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and occupational burnout. This analysis makes it possible to explore the problem of sensitivity as a predictor of burnout syndrome and to discuss adequate coping strategies in the work environment to improve employee well-being. The sample consists of 516 employees (236 women; Mage = 28.97, SD = 6.62 years). The Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS; 27 items) was used to measure sensory processing sensitivity; the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI; 16 items) was used to measure exhaustion and disengagement from work. The analysis of sensitivity is based on the ‘DOES’ model of a highly sensitive person, which includes depth of processing (D), overstimulation (O), emotional reactivity and empathy (E), and sensing the subtle (S). Burnout due to exhaustion and disengagement is analyzed. The factor analysis of the HSPS confirms its three-factor structure. The results indicate significant relationships between sensory processing sensitivity and burnout symptoms. However, the influence of specific aspects of sensitivity on the burnout problem varies: the results indicate that higher emotional reactivity is linked to worse burnout symptoms, but sensing the subtle shows the opposite effect and may be a protective factor against exhaustion. Significant gender differences were observed [F(511,1) = 136.63, p < 0.001; η2 = 0.21]; women revealed a significantly higher level of general sensitivity (Mwomen = 4.66, SD = 0.62) as compared to men (Mmen = 4.01; SD = 0.64). Awareness of one’s high sensory-processing sensitivity and its potential outcomes in the work environment may be essential in order to implement appropriate regulatory strategies. Proactive strategies aimed at reducing prolonged emotional overload may be critical for highly sensitive employees. Recognizing high sensitivity may reduce burnout symptoms and improve well-being at work.

The gender socialization experiences of highly sensitive men.

“…Regardless of exact proportions, it is clear that highly sensitive persons represent a minority of the population, which can create unique challenges and stressors for those trying to navigate in a world that privileges a less sensitive temperament (Aron, 2011; Aron & Aron, 1997; Aron et al, 2005). For example, highly sensitive persons are more likely than the general population to develop mental health disorders and struggles such as anxiety, depression, and negative affect, especially when growing up in unsupportive or traumatic social environments (Aron & Aron, 1997; Booth et al, 2015; Golonka & Gulla, 2021; Lionetti et al, 2018; Liss et al, 2005; Slagt et al, 2018).…”

Sensory Processing Sensitivity as a trait of temperament - evolutionary, socio-cultural, biological context and relation to mental disorders

“…Ujawniono związek między SPS a ryzykiem wypalenia zawodowego [68], przy czym wyższy wskaźnik reaktywności emocjonalnej był związany z nasileniem objawów wypalenia, natomiast cecha "wyczulenie na subtelności" wykazywała odwrotny efekt, co może potwierdzać jej rolę protekcyjną.…”

Practitioner Review: Differential susceptibility theory: might it help in understanding and treating mental health problems in youth?

“…Furthermore, higher sensitivity has been associated with lower levels of life satisfaction, extraversion, and higher levels of neuroticism (Booth, Standage, & Fox, 2015 ; Pluess et al., 2018 ; Smolewska, McCabe, & Woody, 2006 ; Sobocko & Zelenski, 2015 ). Highly sensitive adults have also been found to report poorer physical ill health (Benham, 2006 ), greater displeasure with work and requiring longer psychological recovery times (Anttila et al., 2018 ; Evers, Rasche, & Schabracq, 2008 ), burn out syndrome (Golonka & Gulla, 2021 ), greater COVID‐19 pandemic stress and internalising problems (Burgard, Liber, Geurts, & Koning, 2022 ; Iimura, 2022 ), and higher levels of nightmare distress in the context of poor mental health (Carr, Matthews, Williams, & Blagrove, 2021 ).…”