Relationship between Highly Sensitive Person, Sleep Quality and Interpersonal Relationship in University Students

Abstract

In the field of psychological research, the exploration of individual differences has emerged as a critical area to be inquired, variables such as highly sensitive person (HSP), sleep quality and interpersonal relationships are gathering much attention. This research examines the complex interrelationship among these variables among undergraduate students. Highly sensitive person is defined as a neurodivergent individual with heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli and a deeper understanding of their surroundings. Sleep quality is the level of satisfaction and freshness that a person gets upon wakening up. Interpersonal relationship is the dynamic and social bond that individuals form with one another. A sample of 273 students participated in the study where 44.7% were males and 55.3% were females. Three instruments were used to measure the study variables, Highly sensitive person scale (HSPS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Functional Idiographic Assessment Inventory Questionnaire (FIAT-Q). The findings of this study contributed to the growing body of literature on the study variables. The findings showed significant relationship between highly sensitive person and seep quality while it showed a non-significant relationship with interpersonal relationship but showed significant relationship with some of its subscales. Findings also revealed gender differences in highly sensitive person where females reported to have high traits of being an HSP. Insights garnered from this research have implications for educational institutions, policymakers and support centers to promote a healthy and conducive environment for students.