Overexcitability

Overexcitability, in the context of human psychology, refers to an intense response to stimuli, characterized by heightened sensitivity and a tendency towards passionate, overwhelming reactions. It's a state where individuals experience the world with exceptional depth and intensity across various domains: psychomotor, sensual, intellectual, imaginational, and emotional. This heightened responsiveness can manifest as both positive traits, like creativity and empathy, and challenges, such as difficulties with emotional regulation or social adaptation. Individuals with overexcitabilities often possess a rich inner life and are prone to intense feelings, complex thoughts, and heightened awareness. It's important to note that overexcitability is not a disorder itself, but rather a heightened neurophysiological sensitivity, and it often accompanies giftedness.

Overexcitability meaning with examples

• The artist's paintings overflowed with bold colors and intricate details, a clear reflection of his imaginational overexcitability. He saw the world with such vibrant imagination, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary masterpieces. His heightened sensitivity allowed him to capture and express emotions on canvas that most people couldn't even articulate. It fueled his creative passion and drove him to experiment with new techniques.
• During the concert, the child’s emotional overexcitability was evident as he burst into tears during a particularly moving song. The intense beauty of the music, coupled with the shared experience of the audience, overwhelmed him. He struggled to contain his feelings, displaying a profound empathy and deep connection to the emotional narratives of the music. His reactions were not unusual for someone with high sensitivity.
• The gifted student showed intellectual overexcitability, constantly questioning and seeking deeper understanding of complex subjects. She would spend hours reading advanced texts, connecting seemingly disparate concepts and formulating novel insights. Her mind worked at a rapid pace, always hungry for information and fascinated by the mysteries of the world around her. Her passion made her very ambitious.
• With the advent of the festival, the young man's psychomotor overexcitability kicked in: he was bouncing off the walls in anticipation of a social gathering, and felt the need to actively participate. The excitement caused a restless energy. He struggled to sit still, constantly fidgeting and needing to move, showcasing the increased physical sensations. He was very excited about the opportunities the festival presented for him.