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Acquired deafness and mental health
The British Journal of Medical Psychology
|September 1, 1981
Summary
Acquired deafness is linked to psychological disturbances, particularly psychoneurotic issues. However, research does not strongly support the idea that hearing loss causes increased paranoia or suspiciousness in individuals.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Audiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Acquired deafness can significantly impact an individual's mental well-being.
- Previous research and anecdotal evidence suggest a link between hearing loss and psychological distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the psychological effects of acquired deafness.
- To examine the evidence for a relationship between acquired deafness and psychological disturbance, including paranoia.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of descriptive case studies, including personal experiences and simulated hearing loss.
- An analysis of studies with an experimental design investigating acquired deafness and psychological outcomes.
Main Results:
- The review indicates a correlation between acquired deafness and psychological disturbance, especially at the psychoneurotic level.
- Limited evidence was found to support the notion that acquired deafness leads to increased suspiciousness or paranoid reactions.
Conclusions:
- Acquired deafness is associated with psychological disturbances, primarily psychoneurotic manifestations.
- The commonly held belief that hearing loss causes paranoia is not well-supported by the reviewed studies.