Extreme sensory processing in high intellectual potential individuals : a systematic review

Sensitivity has been described as a characteristic of individuals with High Intellectual Potential (HIP). However, extreme sensory processing, manifesting as heightened or diminished responsiveness to sensory input, has not yet been the subject of a dedicated systematic review. This systematic review aims to critically examine and synthesize existing studies on extreme sensory processing among HIP individuals, with particular attention to theoretical frameworks, assessment tools, and methodological quality.

This review was conducted in compliance with PRISMA guidelines. An updated search was performed in December 2024 using the following keywords: "sensory", "sensitivity" and "high intelligence" or "gifted" in the Pubmed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, PsycArticle, ScienceDirect and Scopus databases. The included articles specifically examined sensory processing in response to internal or external stimuli.

Of the 739 articles screened, 21 were eligible and 5 studies ultimately met the inclusion criteria. The studies exhibit conceptual heterogeneity, utilizing diverse theoretical frameworks. While some studies report differences in sensory reactivity, these findings are not convergent and largely depend on the heterogeneity of the theoretical frameworks, constructs, and measurement tools used, which limits their interpretability and comparability. There is a lack of consistent evidence supporting the existence of a generalized or extreme sensory processing profile in HIP populations. Methodological limitations, including a lack of control for neurodevelopmental comorbidities, and variability in participant characteristics, further limit the generalizability of the findings.

The literature does not support the hypothesis that individuals with HIP exhibit extreme sensory processing. The theoretical and methodological variability observed across studies makes it difficult to draw unified conclusions. Future research should adopt standardized methodologies, provide clear cognitive characterizations, and control for confounding variables to clarify the sensory processing patterns in HIP individuals.

PROSPERO registration number CRD42024629219.