Sensory-processing sensitivity, emotional dysregulation and psychological symptoms in a young population: Exploring gender differences

Abstract

During youth, individual psychological differences contribute to varying levels of vulnerability to mental health issues. Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) may be one such factor, with emotional regulation difficulties potentially acting as a mediator. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms linking SPS to internalizing and externalizing symptoms through emotional regulation difficulties in a young population, with a detailed analysis for both males and females. A total of 548 Spanish individuals (65.15% female), aged 14 to 30 years, participated in this cross-sectional study conducted between March and May 2024. Results indicated that young individuals with higher SPS levels exhibited greater emotional regulation difficulties (i.e., emotional rejection, life interference, lack of control, and emotional confusion) and experienced more internalizing symptoms, regardless of gender. Emotional confusion was associated with higher internalizing problems across both genders. Individuals with difficulties in lack of control reported increased internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Males experiencing greater life interference exhibited more externalizing symptoms, while females facing greater challenges in emotional rejection, life interference, and emotional confusion showed higher levels of internalizing symptoms. In females, difficulties in emotional rejection, emotional confusion, and lack of control partially mediated the relationship between SPS and internalizing symptoms, while lack of control fully mediated the relationship between SPS and externalizing symptoms. These findings have practical implications for the development of prevention and intervention programs aimed at improving youth mental health