Noise-canceling headphones for autistic children

Decreased Sound Tolerance

Decreased sound tolerance (DST), also known as auditory hypersensitivity or hyperacusis, is a reduced tolerance to everyday sounds at a level that would not trouble most neurotypical individuals and is experienced by many autistic individuals. Current research has increased awareness of the prevalence of DST among individuals on the autism spectrum. Findings suggest that occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) working with autistic children and young adults can consider passive noise-attenuating devices to provide immediate relief from distressing noises and increase participation in meaningful occupations.