Cognitive mechanisms underlying SPS
Unraveling the highly sensitive mind: The cognitive (and neural) mechanisms underlying sensory processing sensitivity
Project supervisors
Main supervisor: Prof. Dr. Natacha Deroost, co-supervisor: Prof. Dr. Kris Baetens
Project researcher
Lu-Chuan Xiao (Luchuan Xiao)
Project duration
Four years CSC funding (Sep. 2021 – Sep. 2025)
Description
The concept of high sensitivity has attracted increasing public interest as many people can relate to what it means to have a highly arousable and reflective nervous system. At present, the theoretical construct of high sensitivity is still subject to debate. A common feature of this concept is the ability to notice subtle details in the environment and/or to rapidly identify subtle differences in people’s mood. Research on the underlying mechanisms that might be responsible for such a heightened sensitivity, however, is scarce. In this research project, we aim to expand the knowledge on high sensitivity by investigating whether highly sensitive persons process information differently, whether this different processing can be explained by a higher awareness of low-intensity stimulation and/or by an enhanced elaboration of already attended stimuli, and whether a different processing occurs for all kinds of stimuli or only emotional ones. The current project will provide a deeper insight into the functionality of high sensitivity and gives us invaluable guidelines about how highly sensitive individuals can organize their lives to flourish in this challenging world.
Funding
China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Weerbaarheid en veerkracht bij kinderen en jongeren: Conceptanalyse en ontwikkeling van een meetinstrument
Project supervisors
Veerle Soyez, Imke Baetens, Peter Theuns, Filip Van Droogenbroeck
Project researcher
Veerle Soyez
Project duration
November 2020 - December 2022
Description
Resilience is a popular but at the same time very complex concept that still needs a lot of research. For instance, there is no unambiguously accepted definition. As a result, there is also a lack of clarity on how resilience can best be operationalised and which instruments can be used for this purpose. In the research project 'Resilience and resilience in children and young people: concept analysis and development of a measuring instrument', we tried to contribute to this conceptual discussion on (measuring) resilience, especially in children and young people. Using a mixed-method study, we developed a conceptual framework for (mental or psychological) resilience (research phase 1). Subsequently, we developed a scientifically based measuring instrument that can be used to assess and map resilience, the core components of resilience and the determinants underlying resilience in Flemish adolescents between 12 and 18 years (research phase 2).
Funding
Flemish Government - Department of Culture, Youth and Media