Auditory Processing Disorder Research Paper

Auditory Processing Disorder

Auditory processing disorder is a neurological defect which effects how the brain processes words, spoken words to be more precise. Auditory processing disorder effects the manner in which speech is processed, what is heard does not make it to the brain because the ears and brain do not fully synchronize. The synchronization between the ears and the brain plays an important role when interpreting sound and the way in which the central nervous system uses the auditory information plays a large role is how it is processed; therefore, there is a breakdown receiving, remembering, understanding and then using the information that is heard. This disorder affects about five percent of school-aged children and can lead

A collaborative team that includes a teacher, to address academic issues, a psychologist, to assess the cognitive function and a speech-language pathologist to address written and oral language along with speech and finally an audiologist who will make the diagnosis. The audiologist will determine which test should be preformed, a behavioral and/or electrophysiological test. The behavioral test can consist of a test where a phrase is repeated in each ear then the child is ask to repeat it back or a test where each ear hears a different phrase and the child then repeats back everything they heard or just what was heard in one ear. Electrophysiological test uses a cap that has built in sensors and is placed on the head and measures the brains response to sound stimuli. The audiologist will deicide which test to preformed based on the severity of the symptoms and the age of the child. Children under the age of eight have instable brain function and would not be a candidate for the electrophysiological

Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial. An early diagnosis, age seven or eight, can aid the child as they go through formal schooling. Undiagnosed auditory processing disorder can lead to difficulty with reading, attention problems and language issues, these issues can have an adverse effect on the child as they grow up and make them feel as if they have below normal intelligence, exhibit low self-esteem and result in poor communication skills. Implementing new strategies for learning and teaching more effective methods of listening and learning as well as coping with everyday life can make a significant difference, This is why cognitive therapy is essential to assist the patient with the tools needed to make these changes happen. Electronic devices are a viable option for school age children. Support groups are often helpful to help the patient gain new perspective on their disorder and to help them see they are not alone. There is no one-size-fits-all option, patients with auditory processing disorder must learn to live life in a way that works for