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Overexcitability

Overexcitabilities (OEs) are heightened physiological and psychological sensitivities that amplify experience and perception. Dąbrowski identified five forms:

Psychomotor: Drive, restlessness, rapid speech
Sensual: Heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, textures
Intellectual: Deep curiosity, analytical rigor
Imaginational: Vivid fantasy, invention, visual thinking
Emotional: Profound affective depth, empathy, attachment

OEs often lead to rich inner lives but can also produce intense conflict. When guided by developmental forces, they fuel disintegration and transformation.