What is the term for the phenomenon when the nervous system responds too much to stimuli?

The phenomenon where the nervous system responds excessively to stimuli is referred to as hyper-responsive. This term describes situations where individuals exhibit heightened sensitivity or reactions to various stimuli, which can manifest in various ways depending on the context, such as emotional overreactions, increased anxiety responses, or physical reactions to sensory input.

Hyper-responsiveness can be seen in various conditions, including anxiety disorders, sensory processing disorders, and some neurological conditions. Understanding this term is critical for mental health professionals, as it shapes the approach to treatment and supports tailored therapeutic interventions to help individuals manage their heightened responses appropriately.

The other terms listed refer to concepts that don't specifically relate to an exaggerated response of the nervous system to stimuli. Hypo-responsive indicates a reduced sensitivity, incompatible behavior relates to actions that conflict with therapeutic goals, and intermittent reinforcement involves a learning principle in behavior modification, which is unrelated to the nervous system's response to stimuli.