Presentation of an Auditory Training Protocol Applied in Children with Central Auditory Processing Disorder

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) affects auditory skills crucial for development.
• Early intervention is key for managing CAPD in children.
• Standardized assessments are vital for diagnosing and tracking CAPD progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate an auditory training protocol for children diagnosed with CAPD.
• To assess the efficacy of the protocol in improving specific auditory processing skills.
• To measure changes in self-perceived auditory abilities post-intervention.

Main Methods:

• Nine children (ages 9-12) with normal hearing participated.
• Initial assessments included behavioral CAP tests and a self-perception questionnaire.
• An eight-session auditory training protocol with four distinct activities was administered.
• Post-training assessments replicated the initial behavioral tests and questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant improvements were noted in key CAP behavioral tests, including Dichotic Digit Test (DDT) and Competing Dissyllable Test (SSW).
• Improvements were observed in binaural integration, figure-ground, and temporal resolution skills.
• Participants reported enhanced self-perception of their auditory abilities after training.

Conclusions:

• The auditory training protocol demonstrated effectiveness in improving auditory skills in children with CAPD.
• While not achieving complete normalization, the protocol led to measurable gains in auditory processing and self-perception.
• This protocol offers a promising approach for auditory rehabilitation in pediatric CAPD.