Sensory-Processing Sensitivity and Communication Apprehension: Dual Influences on Self-Reported Stress in a College Student Sample

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of sensory-processing sensitivity on communication apprehension scores and self-reported stress levels of college students (N = 304). Two path models detailing relations among the variables were compared and findings were threefold. First, as self-report sensory-processing sensitivity increased so did self-reported communication apprehension. Second, as sensory-processing sensitivity increased so did perceived college stress, most noticeably academic stress. Third, sensory-processing sensitivity accounted for a greater amount of variance in self-reported stress than communication apprehension. Implications for future research regarding the impacts of sensory-processing sensitivity on communication are discussed.

Keywords:

• Classroom Environment
• HSP
• Sensory Stimulation
• SPS

Notes

Note. SPS = Sensory-processing Sensitivity; PRCA = Personal Report of Communication Apprehension; CSI = College Stress Inventory.

***p < .001; **p < .01; *p < .05. Reliabilities are presented along the diagonal.

The items deleted included: Do you startle easily; When you were a child, did your parents or teachers seem to see you as sensitive or shy; Do you seem to be aware of subtleties in your environment; Do you have a rich, complex inner life; Are you deeply moved by the arts or music; Are you conscientious; Do you notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, works of art; and, Are you made uncomfortable by loud noises?

The items deleted in addition to those recommended by Levine and McCroskey (1990) were: My thoughts become confused and jumbled when I am giving a speech; Communicating at meetings usually makes me uncomfortable; and, Ordinarily I am very tense and nervous in conversations.

The items deleted included: Difficulty taking exams; Difficulty participating in class; A fear of failing to meet family expectations; Difficulty because of feeling a need to perform well in school; Difficulty handling relationships; Difficulty with peers treating you unlike they treat each other; Difficulty paying for food; and, Difficulty paying for recreation and entertainment.