New to FS2004 Jumpy stick???

I just recently bought FS2004 and I just looked at this group so forgive me
for not knowing if this has been addressed before.

In nearly all the aircraft I fly the joystick seems to be very sensitive.
The plane jumps around quite a bit. I thought of reducing the sensitivity
but was concerned that I might not have full field of travel when I want it.
I have noticed the same thing on other MSFSs. Do I need a new joystick or is
that just the nature of the simbeast.

Thanks,
Andy