Psychological Distress and Social Adjustment in Adults with Single-Sided Deafness
Author Information
Author(s): Apa Enrico, Nocini Riccardo, Ciorba Andrea, Sacchetto Luca, Gherpelli Chiara, Monzani Daniele, Palma Silvia, Lopez-Escamez Jose A.
Primary Institution: Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Policlinico of Milan, Italy
Hypothesis
This study aims to explore the psycho-social profile of adult workers affected by single-sided deafness (SSD) compared to subjects with normal hearing.
Conclusion
The study found that adults with SSD have significantly worse psychological health and social functioning compared to those with normal hearing.
Supporting Evidence
- Subjects with SSD reported higher levels of psychological distress and lower social functioning compared to normal hearing subjects.
- The study used validated psychometric tests to assess the impact of SSD on well-being.
- Significant differences were found in emotional and social-situational scores between the SSD and normal hearing groups.
- Participants with SSD experienced difficulties in daily activities and social participation.
- Employers with hearing loss reported higher stress levels and worse health states.
Takeaway
People who can only hear from one ear often feel sad and have a hard time making friends, especially at work.
Methodology
This is a cross-sectional, case-control study involving psychometric tests administered to subjects aged 24-65 with SSD and a control group with normal hearing.
Potential Biases
Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to reduce bias, but the small sample size may still introduce confounding factors.
Limitations
The study's limitations include a lack of psychiatric evaluation and a small sample size for multifactorial analyses.
Participant Demographics
149 subjects aged 24-65 years, with 68 males (45.6%) and 81 females (54.4%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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