Effect of sound pressure levels on problem-solving abilities with the mediation of personality traits

Abstract

Abstract Objective Noise can cause distraction and mental dysfunction. In examining the effects of noise, it is important to pay attention to personality traits. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of noise exposure on problem-solving ability with the mediating role of personality type. Method This laboratory study was performed on 40 students. For this study, the recorded noise from the industry environment was broadcast to the volunteers and the students were exposed to different sound pressure levels (33, 75, 85 and 95 dBA). Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was used to assess personality type. Problem-solving abilities of students were assessed using the London Tower test. Data analysis was performed in version 22 of SPSS software. Results The results of data analysis showed that there is a significant relationship between different levels of noise pressure and students’ problem-solving ability so with increasing sound pressure level, problem-solving ability decreases (p < 0.001). No significant relationship was found between personality type and problem-solving ability (p > 0.05). Conclusion Considering the effect of noise on mental performance, noise control in work positions that require attention and processing of mental information is necessary.