The relationship between high intellectual ability and stress sensitivity has been a topic of increasing interest in neuroscientific research. Individuals with high Intelligence Quotients (IQs) often report heightened sensory experience, which can be exacerbated in stressful situations, negatively impacting their well-being and performance.
Neuroscientific evidence suggests that this heightened sensitivity may be related to several factors. The heightened sensory processing characteristic of people with high IQs can lead to sensory overload in stressful contexts, making it difficult to filter relevant information and compromising concentration. In addition, the predisposition to anxiety, often observed in this group, can amplify the perception of threat and intensify the stress response, resulting in greater irritability and social isolation. The intense and analytical thinking common in individuals with high IQs may also contribute to greater sensitivity to sensory stimuli, especially in situations of high cognitive or emotional demand.
Neuroimaging studies have shown that individuals with high IQs exhibit differences in brain structure and function, including greater synaptic density, efficiency in neural connectivity, and integrity of cortical pathways. These neurobiological characteristics may be associated with the greater sensory processing capacity and increased sensitivity observed in this group. However, stress can negatively modulate neural connectivity, exacerbating sensory perception and compromising the integrity of the brain’s functional networks.
Understanding the neurobiological and psychological mechanisms underlying heightened sensitivity in high IQ individuals during times of stress is crucial for developing effective support and intervention strategies. Approaches that target stress management, emotional regulation, and the development of coping skills may be beneficial in minimizing the negative impact of stress and promoting well-being and maximum potential in these individuals.
Reference :
Rodrigues, F. de AA, Avila, E., Nascimento, FH dos S., & Espírito Santo, JL do. (2024). Increased sensory sensitivity and reduced social tolerance in high IQ individuals during periods of stress. Academic Horizon – Scientific Journal, 4(1), 73–89. https://doi.org/10.70208/3007.8245.v4.n4.24
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.