Origins of Hypersensitivity

In the history of hypersensitivity and giftedness, various specialist names emerge. Some are well-known, others less so. Over time, based on analysis relevance and considered spectrums, terms like 'High Intellectual Potential', 'High Emotional Potential', 'Zebra', or 'Hypersensitive' have been coined. The first to clearly identify hypersensitivity was American psychologist Dr. Elaine Aron. During her own therapy in the early 1990s, she discovered her hypersensitivity. In 1997, she published her first book and best-seller, "The Highly Sensitive Person," followed by a series of works on hypersensitivity from different angles. She also directed the documentary "Sensitive" in 2015, featuring American singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette, known for her hypersensitivity. However, Aron's view on hypersensitivity was just the beginning of what would later become a recognized identification of the 'High Potential' sphere. Contrary to her estimate that 20% of the population is hypersensitive, clinical realities suggest a significant gap experienced by high-potential individuals in a society that doesn't understand them. Slower reflections and connection difficulties with others indicate that the actual percentage is closer to 3%, aligning more with decades of WAIS (Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale) and WISC (Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children) tests available since 1955.

High Intellectual Potential

This is the accurate and only appropriate term for the 'High Potential' sphere. The intelligence scale reveals different human cognitive capacity ranges. While WAIS and WISC tests can't detect emotional specifics, they describe cognitive abilities. Additional tests or questions might be required to gauge emotional sensitivity. Beware of misleading claims about hypersensitivity or emotional high potential (HPE) tests – these terms are merely rhetorical and help to broadly situate an individual's emotional capacities. For accurate assessments, consult a professional in the field.

Zebras in the Jungle

In the early 2000s, French clinical psychologist Jeanne-Siaud Facchin highlighted aspects of giftedness. Previously, hypersensitivity and high intellectual potential were seen as separate. Facchin introduced the term 'Zebra' to merge intellectual and emotional spheres, choosing it for its symbolism of uniqueness and non-conformity, much like high-potential individuals. Her best-selling book "Trop intelligent pour être heureux. L'adulte surdoué" ("Too Intelligent to Be Happy. The Gifted Adult") opened the doors to an intelligence that extends beyond cognitive abilities, describing high-potential individuals as emotionally rich and humanistic. Contrary to the dusty image of cold geniuses, they too have beating hearts. Her work also embraced topics like mindfulness meditation, a favorite tool of this Avignon-based psychologist.

Reemergence of Hypersensitivity and High Emotional Potential

Despite the impact of the term 'Zebra', it still connected to being 'too intelligent', which can be problematic for high-potential individuals. They are aware of their rapid thinking and comprehension, but telling them they are more intelligent than others trigger two interpretation biases:

Humility: High-potential individuals, guided by a big heart, view themselves as different but not superior. Their natural humility, compounded by imposter syndrome, prevents them from seeing themselves as intellectually superior.

Family Background: Depending on family origin, high potentials may struggle to identify as such. In erudite environments, it's easier to embrace being high potential. In contrast, in less academic backgrounds, where erudition might be undervalued or ridiculed, identification is more challenging.

Thus, the terms 'Hypersensitive' and 'High Emotional Potential' (HPE) reemerged and emerged, respectively. They are more accessible, easier to identify with, and humbler than 'High Intellectual Potential'.

All Different, Yet All the Same?

The burning question: Do we approach patients identifying as high intellectual potential, high emotional potential, zebra, or hypersensitive the same way? The answer is evident – yes. These terminologies make no difference in therapeutic strategy or effectiveness. Regardless of how individuals identify themselves, the same strategic approaches are applied with equal success. Understanding and leveraging your innate capacities is key, regardless of the label you choose.