Auditory Processing Disorder

Information taken from American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)

WHAT IS AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER?

Auditory processing disorder (APD) which can also be referred to as central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is an auditory deficit that is not caused by any cognitive or language disorder.  For children who have APD there is a neurological defect of how the brain processes and interprets the sound.  Children are able to hear correctly; however, the brain interprets the sound differently than it should. 

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF APD?

Signs of auditory processing disorder:

• Easily distracted (especially by background noise)
• Poor attention
• Shy
• Slow to respond or answer questions
• Difficulty following directions
• Mishearing sounds
• Difficulty spelling, reading, or understanding information
• Asking for frequent repetitions or clarifications

Please note that these symptoms may appear in other children who do not have APD.  Furthermore, not all children who have APD will have language and learning problems.

WHAT CAUSES APD?

The cause of auditory processing disorder is unknown.  However, APD may be associated with attention deficit disorder (ADD), autism, dyslexia, specific language impairment, pervasive developmental disorder, or developmental delay.   

OUR APPROACH AT KEY THERAPIES:

APD is diagnosed by an Audiologist.  At any time we may recommend that your child be evaluated to determine if he / she has APD.  At Key Therapies we will work closely with the Audiologist to determine a diagnosis.  Later we will develop an individualized treatment plan that is geared toward your child.