Roya Golchini 

Is There a Benefit to Hypersensitive Hearing?

This thesis explored the potential benefits and drawbacks of having hypersensitive hearing, which involved studying multiple different hearing conditions, both physical and psychological. These conditions included hyperacusis, tinnitus, misophonia, phonophobia, hearing loss, and general sound sensitivity. These conditions are usually viewed as a negative affliction to possess as they can cause stress or even pain. It was concluded from the information shared in the research survey by seventy-five participants that in those with mild hyperacusis, mild tinnitus and general sound sensitivity that there was a noted improvement in critical listening skills that benefited their music listening experience, music composition, and environmental spatial awareness.