Understanding Decreased Sound Tolerance in Children
A New Research Opportunity for Families
At bitKIDS, we regularly support children who experience the world in uniquely intense ways — including how they experience sound. For some children, everyday noises like chewing, laughter, hand dryers, classroom chatter, or playground sounds can feel overwhelming, distressing, or even painful. These experiences may be part of what researchers call Decreased Sound Tolerance (DST).
As explained by Dr. Nichole Scheerer and the research team at Wilfrid Laurier University:
“Decreased Sound Tolerance (DST) is a condition in which an individual has an unusually strong negative reaction to sounds. Two of its primary subtypes are hyperacusis (sounds experienced as exceptionally loud or even painful at typical listening levels) and misophonia (disproportionate emotional responses to specific trigger sounds, such as chewing, slurping, or tapping). Though it occurs in both non-autistic and autistic populations, DST has been seen more commonly amongst autistic individuals.”
Because sound is an unavoidable part of daily life — in classrooms, grocery stores, playgrounds, family gatherings, and therapy settings — decreased sound tolerance can significantly impact participation, emotional regulation, learning, and overall wellbeing.
Why This Research Matters
According to Dr. Nichole Scheerer’s research team, DST and its subtypes have only recently been clearly defined within scientific literature, meaning researchers are still working to better understand the adverse experiences individuals can have with sound. Children are an especially important population to study because they are constantly surrounded by unavoidable sensory input in environments like classrooms, playgrounds, and community settings.
The team explains that the goal of this work is to better understand how DST presents in children so that families, educators, clinicians, and communities can provide more effective support and reduce barriers to participation.
Researchers at Wilfrid Laurier University are currently conducting an important study exploring children’s experiences with sound and how auditory sensitivities can be measured more accurately in childhood.
The research aims to better understand:
- How children experience different everyday sounds
- How DST presents in children aged 4–12
- How sound sensitivities may relate to autistic traits, social experiences, and development
- How future interventions and supports can be improved
As highlighted by the research team, improving our understanding of DST may help guide:
- Environmental accommodations
- Coping and regulation strategies
- Psychoeducation for families
- School and community supports
- Tailored therapeutic approaches
Ultimately, this work is about helping children participate more comfortably and confidently in everyday life.
About the Study
According to Dr. Nichole Scheerer and the study team, participating children between the ages of 4 and 12 will:
- Answer questions about their experiences with sound
- Listen to common everyday sounds through headphones at typical listening levels
- Rate how unpleasant or comfortable different sounds feel
Parents or guardians will also complete questionnaires about:
- Their child’s development
- Social competency
- Autistic traits
- Experiences with sound sensitivity
The study takes place at the Science Research Building on Laurier’s Waterloo campus and research sessions are approximately one hour long. Flexible scheduling is available, including weekdays, evenings, and weekends. Families receive compensation for participation.
The research team notes that research like this is an important step toward creating more informed, compassionate, and evidence-based supports for children with sensory differences.
Who Can Participate?
Children:
- Ages 4–12
- With or without identified sound sensitivities
- Autistic and non-autistic children are welcome
Researchers hope to recruit approximately 150 children for the study.
Interested in Participating?
Families interested in learning more can contact the research team directly:
Email: DSTlaurier@gmail.com
Principal Investigator: Dr. Nichole Scheerer
Location: Wilfrid Laurier University — Waterloo Campus
REB #: 9253
At bitKIDS, we are always encouraged to see research that seeks to better understand the lived experiences of neurodivergent children and families. Studies like this help move us toward more compassionate, evidence-based supports that recognize sensory differences as meaningful and deserving of understanding.
