Understanding Sound Sensitivity in School Settings - Results from a Caregiver Survey

Background: Sound Sensitivity, or Hyperacusis, is a condition where everyday sounds are perceived as disturbing or painfully loud. It impacts approximately 3.7% of middle school children. Studies indicate that poor sound environments in schools negatively impact learning and interaction for both children and teachers, particularly affecting those needing special support. This suggests that sound environments pose a significant challenge for children with Sound Sensitivity. More research is needed on the effects of Sound Sensitivity on school participation. Aim: To understand Sound Sensitivity in school children and its impact on school challenges from a caregiver perspective. Methods: A survey was distributed to caregivers of 773 fourth-grade children in mainstream schools in Luleå, focusing on school performance and background factors such as parental education and child health. Responses from 242 caregivers highlighted concerns about Sound Sensitivity, along with various factors affecting school participation, such as absence, difficulties in morning routines, and school staff remarks about the child’s behavior or school situation. These factors were formed to a school challenges index. Results: Significant associations were found between Sound Sensitivity and comorbid diagnoses such as ASD, ADHD, and ADD (p< 0.001). The combination of Sound Sensitivity and comorbidities was significantly related to school challenges (higher index value, p<0.001), however not for the Sound Sensitivity group alone. Unlike previous studies, no link between Sound Sensitivity and parents’ educational level or child’s gender was detected. Conclusion: The findings suggest a link between Sound Sensitivity and school difficulties, particularly in children with comorbidities.