Abstract

Young people who frequent nightclubs, loud concerts, and other similar activities where loud noise is present are exposed to levels of loud sounds that can potentially damage their hearing, causing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus. This article focuses on understanding the problem of NIHL and noise-induced tinnitus among young people by looking at existing research and conducting an original online survey that focused on nightclub and concert visitation, the use of hearing protection, and self-detection of possible signs of hearing damage among young people. It aims to highlight the problematic touchpoints where current solutions fail and to present new ways of helping to solve the problem. It proposes a potential solution in the form of a mobile application concept through which we could attempt to change user behavior. By creating a well-designed user experience and employing certain methods of triggering changes in user behavior, this application aims to help young people self-manage their exposure when faced with such dangerously loud situations.