Psychoacoustic and cognitive predictors of sound sensitivity in healthy young adults

Hyperacusis and sound sensitivity are complex phenomena influenced by both auditory and psychological factors. This study investigated the relationship between hearing thresholds, perceptual ratings of natural sounds, attitudes toward noise, and sex-based differences in a sample of healthy young adults. Fifty participants underwent pure-tone audiometry, completed a psychoacoustic test assessing hyperacusis (sound sensitivity), and filled out self-report questionnaires including the Youth Attitudes to Noise Scale (YANS) and the Beliefs About Hearing Protection and Hearing Loss (BAHPHL). Contrary to expectations, greater sound sensitivity was associated with lower hearing thresholds (indicating minimal hearing loss) in the low-frequency range. This suggests that preserved low-frequency hearing may contribute to auditory discomfort. Questionnaire data revealed that individuals with higher sound sensitivity also held more negative beliefs about noise and hearing protection, highlighting the role of cognitive and affective factors. No significant sex differences were found, though prior research suggests biological distinctions may still influence auditory processing. These findings underscore the importance of considering both perceptual and psychological dimensions in understanding hyperacusis.