Better soundscapes can reduce problem behaviour

Problem behaviour in people with profound cognitive and multiple disabilities can be reduced by improving their soundscapes, according to PhD student Kirsten van den Bosch. She has developed an app for healthcare institution personnel.

People with profound cognitive and often visual disabilities can be bothered by the sounds in their environment because they don’t understand where they are coming from and what they mean. In addition, they have little or no control over the often emotional sounds made by their housemates, staff members’ voices and music coming from the radio or television. This can make them feel insecure, which may negatively affect their behaviour.

More information

• Kirsten van den Bosch
• Dissertation
• Faces of Science, profile Van den Bosch (in Dutch)
• (On)veilige geluiden voor ernstig gehandicapten (in Dutch)

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