Electroencephalogram-derived Involvement Indexes in Sensory Processing Sensitivity.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Physiology

Background:

• Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a temperament trait in highly sensitive persons (HSPs), marked by heightened responsiveness.
• Current assessment relies on the HSP scale; neurophysiological correlates are emerging through electroencephalogram (EEG) research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate EEG-derived involvement indexes as potential physiological markers for characterizing and identifying HSPs.
• To contribute evidence for SPS using resting-state EEG data.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of resting-state EEG data using EEGLAB, including preprocessing and artifact removal.
• Extraction of EEG rhythms and computation of 37 involvement indexes.
• Statistical comparison between HSPs and non-HSPs using Wilcoxon rank-sum test and ANOVA.

Main Results:

• HSPs exhibited more pronounced overall EEG brain rhythm activity compared to non-HSPs, with the exception of alpha rhythm.
• Thirteen EEG-derived involvement indexes were found to be statistically significant in distinguishing HSPs from non-HSPs.
• Significant differences in spectral patterns were observed between HSPs and non-HSPs.

Conclusions:

• HSPs and non-HSPs display distinct spectral patterns in resting-state EEG.
• EEG-derived involvement indexes, particularly those integrating low and high-frequency oscillations, show promise for characterizing SPS.
• This study provides electroencephalographic evidence for an objective method to identify highly sensitive persons.