The Sensitive Navigator
Sensitive to emotional, sensory or psychological risks. May disengage quickly if systems feel coercive, ambiguous or overwhelming. Needs experiences that offer clarity, control and exit points.
"If I can't tell what's going to happen next or feel pushed into a path, I shut down completely."
Disability Characteristics
- Duration
- Whether the disability is lifelong or momentary (e.g. chronic illness vs. situational).
- Range: Temporary to Permanent
- Current value: Permanent
- Progression
- Whether the disability remains the same or changes over time (fluctuation, deterioration, remission).
- Range: Static to Dynamic
- Current value: Dynamic
- Visibility
- Whether the disability is outwardly noticeable to others.
- Range: Non-Apparent to Apparent
- Current value: Non-Apparent
- Trauma Sensitivity
- How much past harm or trauma affects present engagement and trust.
- Range: Low Trauma to High Trauma
- Current value: High Trauma
Design Considerations
- Use trauma-informed content strategy (no blame, low urgency, direct and plain language)
- Avoid forced flows, provide opt-outs and visible progress indicators
- Design non-punitive errors and workflows
- Offer undo, autosave and re-entry points
- Ensure consistent UI elements to build trust