The role of anxiety sensitivity and behavioral avoidance in tinnitus disability.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of anxiety sensitivity and behavioral avoidance in tinnitus distress and functioning. A cross-sectional sample of 283 individuals experiencing tinnitus was obtained from an epidemiological national survey study on hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus. The subjects completed a series of questionnaires measuring anxiety sensitivity, anxiety, and depression. They also answered questions regarding tinnitus distress, functioning, and avoidance. Results revealed a positive significant correlation between anxiety sensitivity and tinnitus distress. This relationship was not better explained by anxiety and depression symptoms. In addition, the findings provided support for a model where behavioral avoidance fully mediated the relationship between anxiety sensitivity and tinnitus functioning, and partially mediated the relationship between anxiety sensitivity and tinnitus distress. Implications for the role of anxiety sensitivity and behavioral avoidance in tinnitus research are discussed.