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

Overview

Journal Front Psychol

Date 2021 Dec 10

PMID 34887805

Citations 10

Authors

Krystyna Golonka

Bozena Gulla

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

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; = 28.97, = 6.62 years). The (HSPS; 27 items) was used to measure sensory processing sensitivity; the (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 (D), (O), (E), and (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 is linked to worse burnout symptoms, but shows the opposite effect and may be a protective factor against exhaustion. Significant gender differences were observed [(511,1) = 136.63, < 0.001; η = 0.21]; women revealed a significantly higher level of general sensitivity ( = 4.66, = 0.62) as compared to men ( = 4.01; = 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.

Citing Articles

Sensory processing sensitivity in adult dental patients and its relation to perceived stress, cortisol, and serotonin secretion.

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PMID: 40025052 PMC: 11873274. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-90263-1.

Job burnout among Polish dentists: the role of sensory processing sensitivity and emotional intelligence.

Pszczolkowska B, Retowski S Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2024; 37(5):524-534.

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The role of individual differences in environmental sensitivity in teachers' stress and burnout at work.

Sperati A, Persico M, Palumbo R, Fasolo M, Spinelli M, Pluess M Stress Health. 2024; 40(6):e3491.

PMID: 39380241 PMC: 11636432. DOI: 10.1002/smi.3491.

High sensitivity groups with distinct personality patterns: a person-centered perspective.

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PMID: 39220398 PMC: 11363424. DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1336474.

Individual characteristics in arts management careers: investigating the highly sensitive person scale on motivation to lead.

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