Patterns of exposure of schoolchildren to amplified music

The amplified-music listening habits and the hearing status of 1443 comprehensive schoolchildren have been surveyed by questionnaire. In a stratified sample of them (n = 25), the levels at which they would listen to a personal cassette player (PCP) in various circumstances were measured. The main conclusion drawn was reassuring: that these children seem to be more conservative in their music-listening habits than young people are commonly given credit for. Nevertheless, music may sometimes make a small contribution to socioacusis and to the total noise dosage of those exposed to noise occupationally. Some recommendations are made for manufacturers of PCPs, and for some restrictions on the use of PCPs in occupational noise.