Auditory-cognitive contributions to speech-in-noise perception determined with structural equation modelling of a...

Area of Science:

• Auditory Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Speech Perception

Background:

• Speech-in-noise (SIN) difficulties are often linked to peripheral hearing loss, but pure tone audiometry (PTA) alone is insufficient for explanation.
• SIN perception involves complex interactions between peripheral hearing, central auditory processing (CAP), and cognitive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interplay between age, peripheral hearing, central auditory processing, and cognitive abilities in determining SIN perception.
• To model the direct and indirect effects of these factors on SIN ability using structural equation modeling.

Main Methods:

• Utilized structural equation modeling to analyze data from 207 participants aged 18-81.
• Developed latent constructs for sound segregation, auditory memory, SIN perception, and CAP.
• Included PTA, age, and non-verbal reasoning measures in the models.

Main Results:

• Age was the strongest predictor of SIN ability, followed by auditory memory. PTA did not directly predict SIN but influenced sound segregation.
• A model incorporating a CAP latent structure revealed CAP as the dominant factor in SIN perception, surpassing age.
• The influence of PTA and non-verbal reasoning on SIN was found to be mediated through their effects on CAP.

Conclusions:

• Central auditory processing (CAP) is the most critical determinant of speech-in-noise perception.
• Age and auditory memory play significant roles, but their impact is partly explained by CAP.
• Understanding CAP is crucial for addressing difficulties in understanding speech in noisy environments.