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The inter-relationships between sensory processing sensitivity and mental health problems among college students: A
Bi-Xian Chen1, Yue Yan1, Si-Yi Tang1
1Department of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, China.
Acta Psychologica
|May 12, 2026
Summary
Emotional/physiological reactivity, a dimension of sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), is a central factor linking SPS to mental health issues in college students. This highlights its clinical relevance for student well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Student Mental Health
Background:
- College student mental health is a growing concern.
- Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is linked to mental health, but its specific dimensions' roles require clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the inter-relationships between mental health problems and SPS dimensions in Chinese college students.
- To identify central dimensions of SPS that bridge to mental health issues.
Main Methods:
- Network analysis of 678 Chinese college students using the Symptom Checklist-90 and Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire.
- Regularized partial correlation network analysis to map SPS and mental health interconnections.
- Centrality indices and group differences by gender and socio-economic status were examined.
Main Results:
- Emotional/physiological reactivity (a dimension of SPS) positively correlated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, interpersonal sensitivity, and depression.
- This dimension negatively associated with somatization and psychoticism.
- Emotional/physiological reactivity was identified as a central hub connecting SPS and mental health problems.
Conclusions:
- Emotional/physiological reactivity is a key SPS dimension with potential clinical and educational implications for college student mental health.
- Findings should be interpreted cautiously due to self-report limitations and cross-sectional design.
- Future research should explore this dimension's role in promoting mental health and academic adjustment.
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