Subjective reactions to traffic noise with regard to some personality traits

Abstract

An interview method with specific questions concerning sleep, psychological disturbances, and behavior was applied to a sample of 413 residents in the center of Belgrade. In the noisy area (Leq > 65 dB (A)), there were 253 interviewed inhabitants, and 160 interviews were performed in the control zone (Leq < 55 dB (A)). Noise annoyance was measured on a ten-graded numeric scale. The Weinstein's Noise Sensitivity Scale was used to assess general sensitivity to noise. Personality traits of extroversion and neuroticism were investigated with the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire. Sleep quality was found to be worse among the inhabitants of noisy streets, compared to the control zone. The specific sleep disturbances were: difficulties in falling asleep (P < 0.05), awakenings (P < 0.001), tiredness after awakening (P < 0.01), and poor subjective sleep quality (P = 0.01). The following psychological disturbances were more frequently found in the noisy area: headache (P < 0.05), nervousness (P < 0.05), fatigue and the feeling of depression (P < 0.01). Behavioral effects of noise were: more frequent intention to change the place of living (P < 0.001), shortening the daily period of open windows (P < 0.001), and worse interpersonal relationship between dwellers (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that subjective noise sensitivity and neuroticism significantly and positively influenced the morning effects of traffic noise (P < 0.01). There was no significant mediating effect of extro-introversion on subjective reactions to noise.