Why do we like loud sounds?

Abstract

Introduction: Leisure noise exposure at recreational venues draws the attention of popular media and researchers, but the fundamental question of "why people like loud sounds" has not been definitively answered (Blesser, 2007). This is despite the understanding that health promotion requires acknowledging the rewards of risk taking behaviour. Furthermore, the views of those who control sound levels at recreational venues have not been explored. Methods: Sound level measurements to determine Leq (dBA) were carried out at nightclubs, bars/pubs (with and without live music) and cinemas noting time of day, crowd size and particularly noisy events. The Arnett Sensation Seeking Inventory (AISS) and a semi-structured qualitative interview were then administered to 3 groups of participants: Group 1 (regular attendees off recreational venues aged 18 to 25 years old), Group 2 (musicians/DJs/sound engineers) and Group 3 (venue managers). Results: Sound level measurements in most venues exceeded 85 dBA Leq. Mean levels were comparable to Beach et al., (2010), although nightclubs were lower and movies were higher. All participants scored highly on the sensation seeking measure (AISS). Why people like loud sounds can be related to 4 themes: stimulation/arousal, facilitating socialising, distraction and emphasising identity. In regards to desirable sound levels at nightclubs, there is a discrepancy between the views of those who attend (Group 1) and those who manage them (Group 3). Group 3 believed nightclubs need to be loud, Group 1 felt they may enjoy them even more if they were not as loud. Conclusion: The results indicate a number of factors that influence sound levels in nightclubs and bars/pubs that need to be taken into account when conducting dosimetry at recreational venues. Identifying those higher in sensation seeking may be useful for targeted hearing health promotion. Venue managers may be more likely to reduce sound levels in nightclubs, bar/pubs and movies if they were aware those who regularly attend these venues find them too loud. This may be more effective motivation for managers than regulations and policy implementation.