HSP Test

An unofficial look at the highly sensitive pattern: depth, overstimulation, emotional responsiveness, and subtlety. Not a diagnosis.

HSP Test

What this HSP test will and will not tell you

Elaine Aron described a temperament pattern in public writing: depth of processing, overstimulation, emotional responsiveness, and sensitivity to subtlety. People search that pattern as an HSP test. This page uses original questions aimed at those four ideas. It is not the Highly Sensitive Person Scale, it does not reproduce that scale's items, and a score here is not her instrument.

A high result is not a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or any other condition. Those have their own criteria and need a clinician when they limit your life. A low result is not a compliment and not an insult. Answer for a normal month, not for the week you were ill or heartbroken.

If you want trait scores instead, take the Big Five. If you want workplace pace, take the DISC assessment.

Question 1 of 16

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the official HSP Scale? ▼
No. The Highly Sensitive Person Scale is Elaine Aron's instrument. These questions are original and only follow the four ideas she has described in public.
Does a high score mean I have autism or ADHD? ▼
No. Overlapping experiences exist. This page cannot confirm or rule out any diagnosis. If daily life is impaired, see a clinician.
Are highly sensitive people rare and special? ▼
Aron has estimated a minority of people fit the pattern. Minority is not a rank. Do not use the score to excuse unkindness or to demand that every room go quiet.
Why might I score high only this week? ▼
Illness, grief, a new baby, or a brutal job will inflate overstimulation items. Retake on a boring month before you build an identity on it.