Student Perception of Hearing Aids and Healthy Hearing Practices

Emily E. Goerlich
Dr. Ilene Elmlinger, Faculty Mentor

Hearing aids make great changes for the better in the lives of people who use them. However, stereotypes and negative beliefs about hearing aids decrease the likelihood that those who are in need of hearing aids will wear them. This research interviews college students majoring in either communication disorders or music, both pursuits where good hearing is essential and emphasized. It seeks to find out the students’ general view of hearing aids and hearing aid users, in addition to which stereotypes are most prevalent and damaging and what measures students are taking (or not) to prevent needing amplification in the future.

The subjects answered multiple choice and short answer questions about their experience with hearing aids, their views about hearing aids, their exposure to loud noise, and their hearing protection practices.  These results were statistically analyzed to establish trends about the views, beliefs, and practices of students.

 

Keywords: Hearing Aids, Hearing Protection, Hearing Loss, Hearing Aid Users, Music Students, Communication Disorders Students, Stereotypes, Communication Disorders

Topic(s):Communication Disorders

Presentation Type: Oral Presentation

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA