Work-related stress transcends geographical boundaries, with its impact felt globally. A forthcoming study from Japan focuses on a unique subgroup within the workforce: Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) who experience stress differently due to their acute sensitivities to external factors. While prone to higher stress levels, this group also exhibits increased levels of empathy, which could prove beneficial within organisational contexts.

This research by Osaka University scholars, set to be published in the Japanese Journal of Applied Psychology, indicates a positive correlation between the scores for HSPs and work stress, independent of personality traits such as optimism or pessimism. Moreover, the correlation between HSP scores and empathy suggests that the heightened sensitivity of HSPs enhances their stress perception and equips them to forge deeper connections with their peers, thereby contributing positively to the work environment.

Recognising work stress as a significant contributor to premature job turnover, job dissatisfaction, emotional burnout, reduced productivity, and even suicidal tendencies is crucial, particularly in Japan, where early turnover among the youth is a pressing public concern. Identifying individual differences in stress response is critical to developing targeted strategies for employee support.

In February 2022, the research team conducted an online survey with 296 working adults over 18. The findings revealed that 26% of the working population could be categorised as HSPs, underscoring the substantial segment of employees potentially under higher stress.

Lead author Tomohiro Ioku expressed surprise at the prevalence of HSPs in the workforce, highlighting the widespread impact of stress. Moreover, the study found that HSPs tend to exhibit greater empathy towards their colleagues, which not only aids in establishing a more nurturing work environment but connects them deeply with others.

Senior author Eiichiro Watamura elaborated on the implications of these findings, noting that while HSPs are more vulnerable to stress, their profound empathy is a crucial asset to organisations, especially in roles that demand robust interpersonal skills.

The research underscores the necessity for workplaces to consider the diverse needs of their employees when designing and managing support systems. Traditional approaches like mentoring programs might need to be revised if they address the specific needs of HSPs.

Tomohiro Ioku highlighted the importance of crafting more inclusive and supportive workplace environments to enhance employee retention and well-being. By recognising and accommodating HSPS’ unique traits, organisations can improve productivity and increase employee satisfaction.

The researchers are hopeful that their work will spark further investigations into the positive attributes of HSPs and lead to the development of work environments that acknowledge and support the characteristics of this distinct group, thereby fostering greater productivity and employee satisfaction.

More information: Tomohiro Ioku et al, Are the Highly Sensitive Person at Work Likely to Feel Stressed and Empathetic? Japanese Journal of Applied Psychology. DOI: 10.24651/oushinken.50.1_11

Journal information: Japanese Journal of Applied Psychology Provided by Osaka University