India, May 5 -- The cacophony of engine noise from roaring cars and motorcycles is a familiar urban symphony for many. Yet, amidst this sonic landscape, a curious question emerges: why do some individuals gravitate towards loud vehicles, while others prefer a quieter, more subdued ride? Recent research delves into the realm of psychology to uncover the underlying motivations behind preferences for noisy cars, revealing intriguing connections to personality traits such as sadism and psychopathy.

Julie Aitken Schermer, a professor at Western University in London, Ontario, was inspired to explore this phenomenon while walking her dog near the campus. Daily encounters with loud cars, pickup trucks, and motorcycles prompted her curiosity abou...