How Noise Affects Cognition and Mood

August 26, 2009

We subject ourselves to 'acoustic startle response' each morning we're roused by

the unpleasant sounds from an alarm clock. This abuse can, in the long run,

induce cardiovascular and digestive distress.

We also become mentally combative when we're pummeled with noise, such that the

World Health Organization notes aggressiveness as a health risk of noise.

Additionally, other cognitive functions are sacrificed in the presence of

noise-induced anger.

Psychologist Arline Bronzaft's research has shown that, in the case of a school

located next to a train track, students' performance is hampered by noise. On

the quieter side of the school, students performed at a reading level higher

than the students on the train side. When measures were taken to insulate the

noise-affected students, their performance evened out.

Beyond this, stroke victims have also been reported to have increased visual

awareness when listening to preferred music, and surgery patients have reported

less pain while listening to nature sounds.

The takeaway? Take measures to calm your mind and body by using more soothing

sounds to wake you up in the morning. And whenever possible, try drowning out

noise by listening to something pleasant. Your brain will thank you!

Love, Gabby. :0)

" I know of nobody who is purely Autistic or purely neurotypical. Even God had

some Autistic moments, which is why the planets all spin. " ~ Jerry Newport

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