Mood Effects of Exposure to Low Frequency Active Sonar: Replication and Extension.
Abstract
Navy personnel are exposed to low frequency active sonar (LFAS) as part of their normal work environment and adverse effects on health, performance, or morale may result. These adverse effects of LFAS can be reduced by ship design modifications, (e.g., soundproofing), but increased costs are an important concern. This study examined the effects of 24-hour LFAS exposure on mood and activation at LFAS intensity levels of 77 dB (n=12) and 89 dB (n=11). Significant mood and activation changes were observed during LFAS exposure and recovery, but the magnitude of these changes was the same at both intensities. Personality variables predicted how individuals responded to LFAS exposure, but relationships between personality and mood/activation were not affected by LFAS intensity. These findings were consistent with a concurrent study which examined the effects of LFAS exposure at 83 dB and 89 dB. These current findings do not support a concern for ship design when LFAS is in the 77 dB and 89 dB range unless these findings change under longer LFAS exposure times which may be more typical of Navy shipboard environments during operational deployments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA302596
Entities
People
- Ernest. M. Noddin
- Linda K. Hervig
- Ross R. Vickers
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center