Efficacy of a deficit specific auditory training program for remediation of temporal patterning deficits

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a targeted auditory training programme as a remediation approach for children diagnosed with a temporal patterning disorder. Design: Temporal Patterning scores were determined at two-time points pre-intervention and again post-training. Measures were then repeated in half of the participants after a further non-training period to determine the sustainability of effects. Cognitive skills and outcome measures were assessed at all time-points. Study Sample: Ten children aged between 7 and 12 years of age, diagnosed with a temporal patterning processing disorder, were enrolled in the training programme. Results: A group mean of 9.2 hours training was completed. Conclusion: Significant, sustainable improvements on the Frequency Pattern Test were found (2.5 SD increase in score relative to mean of age matched-peers) at the completion of training. Duration of training did not predict the degree of improvement. Cognitive skills did not show significant changes in ability. Significant, sustainable improvements in temporal patterning ability were seen after completion of the training programme. No associated changes in cognitive skills were seen, suggesting independence of the skills. Deficit-specific approaches are available across the traditional test battery, however, determining the appropriate management plan for a child diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder requires a patient-centric approach.