An exploration of associations between hearing aid self-efficacy and other measurable characteristics of naïve and experienced hearing aid users

Abstract

Objective: The present study aimed to clarify the associations between Hearing Aid Self-efficacy (HASE) and other traits such as working memory, personality and hearing aid (HA) experience. Design and study sample: Fifty-four adults (both naïve and experienced HA users) were included in this exploratory descriptive study. Their working memory, personality, HASE, HA experience and practical HA skills were evaluated. Results: HA experience had a significant positive association with self-efficacy for basic and advanced HA handling abilities. Working memory and personality traits were not related to HASE. For the experienced HA users, HASE was not related to HA skills. However, the openness personality trait had a significant positive association with HA skills. Conclusions: The positive association between HASE and HA experience supported the theory that HASE might be improved through mastery experiences. Possessing certain cognitive abilities or specific personality traits is not a prerequisite for having high HASE. This study also supports previous findings that HASE is not related to HA skills, bringing into question whether improving HASE will also improve HA outcomes. However, for experienced participants, aspects of personality and cognition might play a role in mediating the association between HASE and HA skills.

Publication Title

International Journal of Audiology

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