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Personality and perception of tinnitus
David Welch1, Patrick J D Dawes
1Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Research Unit, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin, New Zealand. david.welch@dmhdru.otago.ac.nz
Ear and Hearing
|July 4, 2008
Summary
Personality traits influence tinnitus perception and persistence. Individuals with tinnitus often exhibit traits like social withdrawal and stress reactivity, suggesting personality impacts symptom awareness and management.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Audiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Tinnitus is a prevalent condition with diverse causes and significant impact.
- Understanding the role of personality in tinnitus perception is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between personality factors and tinnitus perception in the general population.
- To explore how personality traits influence the persistence and annoyance of tinnitus.
Main Methods:
- A birth cohort of 970 individuals aged 32 were interviewed.
- Participants were categorized based on tinnitus frequency (none, occasional, frequent).
- Personality was assessed using the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Tinnitus was reported by 38.2% (rarely) and 6.8% (frequently).
- Individuals with tinnitus showed higher social withdrawal, stress reactivity, alienation, and lower self-control.
- Women reported tinnitus as more annoying; lower socioeconomic status was linked to higher tinnitus prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Personality traits appear to influence tinnitus persistence by affecting awareness.
- Tailoring tinnitus therapies based on personality factors may enhance treatment outcomes.
- Emphasizing internal locus of control can empower tinnitus sufferers.
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