Hypersensitivity to Noise and Light: A Multifactorial Framework of Attention, Personality, and Mood

Sensory hypersensitivity (SHS) has been associated with mental health problems and difficulties in daily life. To better understand the concept of SHS, we studied the association between sensitivity to noise (NS) and light (LS) in the general population and factors of attention, personality, and mood. We also studied the effect of SHS and related factors on life satisfaction. This cross-sectional observational study included 236 adults who completed a series of online questionnaires on NS and LS, attention, personality, mood, and life satisfaction. Thereafter, they completed the Attentional Network Test (ANT). Prevalence of NS and LS were 11% and 8%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with NS and LS included longer mean reaction times on the ANT, higher self-reported ADHD-symptoms, less extraversion, more conscientiousness, more approach coping, and more anxiety. No associations between NS, LS, NS x LS, and life satisfaction were found after correcting for the other associated factors. Identifying a multifactorial framework of SHS promotes our understanding of SHS and allows for hypotheses on underlying mechanisms. Being aware of vulnerabilities in cognitive functions, personality and/or mood could potentially prevent health- and quality of life implications resulting from aspects of SHS.