Individual Differences in the Annoyance of Noise

Abstract

Among the factors influencing individual appraisals of noise intrusion or annoyance are the information contained in the noise, the person's conditioning, and his interpretation of what the noise represents. His previous adaptation to the noise, and his expectations as to the level and the difficulty of quieting it also affect his estimate. Cultural differences in conversational voice level and speaking distance affect the evaluation of background noise. Daily and monthly rhythms occur in sensitivity. All of these factors serve as a caution that the individual response may depart from the “average” reaction.