Network analysis of sensory processing sensitivity, depression and academic difficulties in middle school students

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a multidimensional trait comprising ease of excitation (EOE), low sensory threshold (LST), and aesthetic sensitivity (AES). Prior research indicates that these subdimensions differ in neurophysiological bases and emotional correlates, with EOE and LST linked to behavioral inhibition and negative emotionality and AES associated with behavioral activation and positive affect. These divergent profiles suggest heterogeneous rather than uniform links with depression and academic difficulties in adolescents. To address inconsistencies in treating SPS as unitary, this study used network analysis to examine differential links between SPS subdimensions, depression, and academic functioning in 575 adolescents (aged 12–17). Measures included the Highly Sensitive Child Scale, PHQ-8, and self-reported academic difficulties. Network analysis (EBICglasso) estimated associations and centrality; NodeIdentifyR (Ising model) simulated intervention effects. Results showed that low mood and fatigue were central nodes linking SPS and academic problems. EOE and LST were positively correlated with depression, with EOE also related to academic difficulties. AES was negatively associated with academic problems and unrelated to depression. Simulations suggested targeting low mood and fatigue may reduce symptom activation. These findings highlight the distinct roles of SPS subdimensions and identify depressive symptoms as key intervention points, with implications for more precise psychological support and educational intervention for highly sensitive adolescents.