Glass, D. C., & Singer, J. E. (1973). Experimental studies of uncontrollable and unpredictable noise. Representative Research in Social Psychology, 4(1), 165-183.

Conducted a series of laboratory and field experiments with more than 200 Ss to study behavioral effects and aftereffects of exposure to unpredictable and uncontrollable high-intensity noise. Ss’ tolerance for frustration and quality of task performance were impaired following stimulation by unpredictable noise. Even though physiological adaptation occurred to an equivalent degree under predictable and unpredictable noise, adverse aftereffects were greater following exposure to the latter type of noise. Subsequent experimentation suggested that unpredictable noise has these effects because the individual believes he cannot determine onset and/or offset of the stressor. When perception of control over unpredictable noise was manipulated, frustration tolerance and postnoise task performance were appreciably improved. It is concluded that psychological factors, not simply physical parameters of noise, are the determinants of adverse aftereffects of noise exposure. Further evidence suggests possible mechanisms for the ameliorative effects of perceived control. It is considered that while man adapts to unpredictable stressors, behavioral residues occur that are inimical to his subsequent functioning. There is a “psychic cost” for exposure to unpredictable and uncontrollable aversive events in spite of the fact that individuals seem able to adapt to a variety of stressors.

 

 

Glass, D. C., & Singer, J. E. (1973). Experimental studies of uncontrollable and unpredictable noise. Representative Research in Social Psychology, 4(1), 165-183.