UC Irvine

Noise sensitivity results in a range of experiences, from small annoyances to extreme pain in response to sound. While anyone can experience it, many neurodivergent people report this sensory processing challenge. Novel technologies can help people with noise sensitivity (PWNS) manage their sensitivities. We conducted an interview study with 21 PWNS and 9 caregivers over three months to understand their management and regulation practices and opportunities for technology-mediated support. We found that awareness is a salient factor that influences both management and regulation practices. Based on their awareness, people primarily use avoidance and sound masking approaches or engage in personal coping strategies such as journaling, setting boundaries, and alerting others to regulate. We build on prior research on interdependence, mutual care, and collaborative work to situate the concept of joint awareness to foster collaborative management and regulation for noise sensitivity. Then, we discuss the role of awareness in noise sensitivity management and regulation and provide design principles for the creation of future technology to support noise sensitivity awareness, management, and regulation.