What is a result of overmasking in auditory testing?

Overmasking occurs when an excessive level of masking noise is used, which can lead to inaccurate results in auditory testing. Specifically, overmasking can cause the thresholds measured for the test ear (TE) to appear worse than they actually are. This happens because the masking noise unintentionally stimulates the non-test ear (NTE) and can cause a response in the TE, leading to the perception of poorer hearing thresholds than what is true.

When the masking level exceeds the threshold of the NTE, it can create a situation where the TE thresholds are affected negatively, resulting in false, elevated thresholds in the hearing test. This means that audiologists must be careful in determining the appropriate level of masking to use, as overmasking can skew results and affect clinical decision-making.

The other choices do not accurately address the consequences of overmasking. It does not make it easier to measure thresholds, nor does it suppress the NTE entirely without affecting the TE; it also does have a significant impact on auditory testing, contrary to the claim that it has no impact at all. Thus, understanding the concept of overmasking is essential for accurate hearing assessments.