Sweet and Sensitive: Sensory Processing Sensitivity and Type 1 Diabetes

Journal of Pediatric Nursing
Alon GoldbergOrna Dally Gottfried

Abstract

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a recently proposed construct that refers to a genetically influenced tendency to more strongly and deeply process a variety of information. The aim of the study was to examine whether SPS is associated with an autoimmune disease such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). Participants were 128 adolescents (62 with T1D and 66 comparisons [without autoimmune disease]) and their parents who completed the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSPS) questionnaire, assessing SPS level. Higher levels of SPS were found in the T1D group than in the comparison group. Furthermore, the frequency of SPS trait was significantly higher in the T1D group than in the comparison group. T1D is associated with higher levels of SPS. Hence, there is a need to develop interventions, treatments, and care focused on the needs of T1D patients with SPS temperament, aimed at better treatment adherence. Furthermore, longitudinal research is needed to evaluate whether SPS is a risk factor in the development of T1D.

Citations

Feb 12, 2021·International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·Thomas EgerAnne Wolowski

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