Urban Stress and Noise Pollution: An Environmental Psychology Study in Madhubani City

The study titled “Urban Stress and Noise Pollution: An Environmental Psychology Study in Madhubani City” investigates the psychological effects of chronic noise exposure among urban residents. The primary objective was to assess levels of psychological distress, coping strategies, noise sensitivity, and related psychosocial outcomes, while also examining group differences based on gender and residential noise exposure. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative measures with qualitative interviews. Standardized instruments such as the GHQ-28 for psychological distress, the Brief COPE for coping mechanisms, and a Noise Sensitivity Scale were administered to 125 randomly selected participants from high-noise and low-noise zones of Madhubani. Descriptive statistics were computed, and independent samples t-tests were conducted to compare distress levels between male and female participants, as well as between residents of high- and low-noise neighborhoods. Findings revealed elevated distress levels across the sample, accompanied by widespread sleep disturbances, high annoyance scores, and significant noise sensitivity. Coping strategies were predominantly adaptive, though maladaptive responses persisted. The t-test analysis indicated no significant gender differences in distress levels, suggesting that chronic noise functions as an equalizing environmental stressor. However, residents of high-noise zones reported greater distress and poorer coping outcomes compared to those in low-noise areas. These results highlight the pervasive nature of noise-related psychological strain and the need for targeted interventions. The implications extend to clinical psychology practice, where stress management interventions may be integrated, and to public health policy, where urban planning must prioritize noise regulation.