An examination of the parametric properties of four noise sensitivity measures: research proposal

Noise sensitivity (NS) is a personality trait with a strong influence on reactions to noise. Studies of reaction should include a standard measure of NS that is founded on a theoretically justified definition of NS, and examination of existing NS measures' parametric properties (internal consistency; stability; convergent and predictive validity). At each of 6 laboratory centres (Aalborg; London; Sydney; Dortmund; Madrid, Amsterdam), participants will complete four NS measures on each of two occasions. In one occasion, participants will complete a task while exposed to recorded aircraft noise, and while not exposed, to measure potential noise-induced performance impairment. Participants will also be exposed to noise in the absence of a task. Physiological measures will be taken during both noise conditions, and differences from baseline measures will be assessed. Participants will complete self-report measures assessing responses to noise (perception; reaction; mood) in both noise conditions,reaction to noise from various sources at home, and moderating variables (e.g. sensitivity to non-auditory stimuli, health status, mood, personality, environmental attitudes, socially desirable responding, demographics and lifestyle). A standard NS measure should demonstrate high reliability, and should predict responses to noise. Discussion is welcomed and will focus on validation strategies and optimizing the study design.