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Updated: May 19, 2026

Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
Musical background not associated with self-perceived hearing performance or speech perception in postlingual
Christina Fuller1, Rolien Free, Bert Maat
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. c.d.fuller@umcg.nl
Musical background did not significantly impact cochlear implant users' self-perceived hearing, quality of life, or speech perception. This study found no link between musical training and improved outcomes in cochlear implant recipients.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Speech Perception Research
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Musical background enhances auditory processing and speech perception in normal-hearing individuals.
- This suggests potential benefits for cochlear implant (CI) users, influencing their sound perception and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of musical background on sound and speech perception in adult cochlear implant recipients.
- To determine if musicality correlates with self-perceived hearing abilities and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Assessed musical background using the Dutch Musical Background Questionnaire (DMBQ).
- Measured self-perceived sound and speech perception and quality of life with the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire (NCIQ) and Speech Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ).
- Collected objective speech perception scores from patient records.
Main Results:
- A significant portion of participants (44%) reported formal musical training.
- No association was found between musical background (DMBQ scores) and self-perceived hearing (NCIQ, SSQ) or objective speech perception in quiet.
- Self-perceived hearing performance correlated with objective speech perception scores.
Conclusions:
- Musical background does not appear to influence auditory performance or quality of life in postlingually deafened adult cochlear implant users.
- Further research may explore other factors influencing CI outcomes in musically trained individuals.
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