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Effect of simulated hearing loss on speech sounds perception
J M Schear1, L L Skenes, V D Larson
1VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30910.
Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Simulated high-frequency hearing loss significantly impacts Speech-Sounds Perception Test (SSPT) performance in individuals with normal hearing. This suggests caution when diagnosing auditory processing deficits based solely on SSPT results in patients with hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Central auditory processing disorders (CAPD) can affect speech perception.
- Hearing loss, particularly high-frequency loss, can mimic or exacerbate CAPD symptoms.
- The Speech-Sounds Perception Test (SSPT) is used to assess auditory processing skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of simulated high-frequency hearing loss on SSPT performance in young adults with normal hearing.
- To determine if simulated hearing loss affects auditory processing test results.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-four young volunteers with normal hearing sensitivity participated.
- Bilateral air conduction thresholds were measured.
- The SSPT was administered using tape-recorded stimuli filtered to simulate two types of high-frequency hearing loss.
Main Results:
- A significant effect of simulated high-frequency hearing loss on SSPT performance was observed.
- Individuals with simulated hearing loss performed significantly worse on the SSPT.
Conclusions:
- Simulated high-frequency hearing loss demonstrably affects SSPT outcomes.
- Clinicians should consider the presence and type of hearing loss when interpreting SSPT results.
- Attributing poor SSPT performance solely to CAPD may be inaccurate in patients with hearing loss.