Dysfunctional thinking patterns and immigration status as predictors of hearing protection device usage

Background: There is limited research on the role of dysfunctional/ irrational thinking processes and immigration status on hearing protection device (HPD) usage. Purpose: The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of low frustration tolerance (LFT) and immigration status on HPD usage among employees exposed to hazardous industrial noise. Methods: A total of 117 Israeli-borns and 80 new immigrants from former Soviet Union completed a questionnaire. The association between HPD usage and barriers to action, self-efficacy, and LFT (accounting for age, years of exposure, and immigration status) were assessed using ordered logistic regression models. Results: LFT was associated negatively (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = .25, 95%; confidence interval [CI] = .15-.41) with HPD usage. Self-efficacy was a modifier (adjusted OR = 1.47, 95%; CI = 1.34-1.63): the higher the self-efficacy for a given LFT level, the higher the extent of HPD usage. Immigration status was not a significant predictor. Conclusions: HPD usage is associated with both rational and irrational motivations. The role of LFT in hearing protection should be further investigated.