Work

Could electrohypersensitivity be a specific form of high sensory processing sensitivity?

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Electrohypersensitivity (EHS) refers to a syndrome in which individuals claim to suffer from a variety of symptoms that they attribute to electromagnetic fields. The characteristics of this specific hypersensitivity, particularly in terms of symptoms, are similar to those associated with high sensory processing sensitivity (HSPS). This article raises the question of the superposition of these two types of sensitivity and investigates the existence of a link between the two. Methods: = 100) completed a questionnaire measuring EHS and HSPS, as well as absorption, risk perception and avoidance strategies related to electromagnetic fields, and anxiety and depressive disorders. Results: They showed an overrepresentation of highly sensitive people within the electrohypersensitive group. Furthermore, the results showed differences in terms of anxiety-depressive symptomatology and cognitive strategies (risk perception and avoidance strategies). Discussion: The article discusses these results in the light of the literature and suggests avenues for future research and ways to help highly sensitive people, whether wor not this condition is considered to be caused by electromagnetic radiation.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1550427

Authors: Jimmy Bordarie, Maryse Ledent, Mael Dieudonné, Frédéric Choisay, Eva De Clercq

Institutions: Université de Tours, Qualité de vie et Santé psychologique, Sciensano (Belgium), Centre Max Weber

Language: English

Topic: Electromagnetic Fields and Biological Effects

Subfield: Biophysics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801