About this Research Topic

Background

Auditory perception is shaped by the acoustic environments individuals inhabit and by the noise they encounter. Acoustic environments range from quiet natural settings to bustling urban areas, each affecting the auditory system in distinct ways. Understanding how these varying environments impact auditory perception is key to unraveling the cognitive and neural mechanisms involved in sound processing.

The primary aim of this topic is to explore the relationship between different acoustic environments and their impact on auditory perception. Specifically, it seeks to investigate how various soundscapes affect sound processing in the brain, examine the disruptive effects of noise on auditory perception and cognitive functions, uncover the adaptive strategies employed by the auditory system in noisy environments, assess the implications of noise pollution on mental health and well-being, and develop strategies to enhance auditory perception in diverse acoustic settings.

To achieve these aims, the topic will encompass a wide range of subthemes, including:
• Acoustic Environments: Analysis of different soundscapes, from natural to urban settings, and their distinct auditory challenges.
• Noise Impact: Examination of how noise disrupts hearing, speech recognition, cognitive load, and contributes to auditory fatigue.
• Hearing Loss: Study of the long-term effects of prolonged noise exposure on hearing and overall auditory health.
• Neural Adaptation: Exploration of the brain's adaptive mechanisms, such as auditory masking and neural plasticity, in response to noise.
• Mental Health and Well-being: Assessment of the psychological and physiological effects of noise pollution on individuals.
• Improvement Strategies: Development of innovative approaches to mitigate the negative effects of noise and enhance auditory perception.

By addressing these areas, we aim to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of how acoustic environments shape auditory perception, ultimately improving communication and quality of life.

Topic Editor Achim Klug is co-owner and co-founder of PopNeuron LLC. The other Topic Editor declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.

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• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Registered Report
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Auditory Perception, Acoustic Environments, Noise Impact, Soundscapes, Neural Adaptation, Noise Pollution

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