Structure of perceived handicap in middle-aged males with noise-induced hearing loss, with and without tinnitus.
By using a modified stepwise regression analysis technique, the structure of self-perceived handicap and tinnitus annoyance in 89 males with noise-induced hearing loss was described. Handicap was related to three clusters of variables, reflecting individual, environmental, and socioeconomic aspects, and 60% of the variance in self-perceived handicap was explained by the representatives of these clusters: i.e. 'acceptance of hearing problems', 'social support related to tinnitus' and 'years of education'. Tinnitus had no impact of its own on self-perceived handicap and only a modest portion (36%) of the variance in tinnitus annoyance was explained by 'sleep disturbance' and 'auditory perceptual difficulties'.
Hallberg
L R
LR
Department of Psychology, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
Johnsson
T
T
Axelsson
A
A
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001301:Audiometry, Pure-Tone; D001307:Auditory Perception; D003142:Communication; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D004522:Educational Status; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014012:Tinnitus / Q000150:complications*