Auditory response behavior of severely and profoundly multiply handicapped children

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Developmental Psychology
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Multiply handicapped children present unique audiological challenges.
• Limited data exists on behavioral auditory responses in this population compared to typically developing infants.
• Understanding these responses is crucial for effective intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the behavioral auditory responses of severely and profoundly multiply handicapped children.
• To evaluate the influence of different sound stimuli and developmental levels on responses.
• To provide insights for audiological assessment in this population.

Main Methods:

• Behavioral observation audiometry was used with 31 children (chronological age: 7-153 months; developmental age: 0-24 months).
• An experienced judge rated 9 specific behaviors (absent, strong, weak) across various auditory stimuli.
• Stimuli included broadband noise, narrowband noises, and filtered/unfiltered speech at different intensities.

Main Results:

• Children demonstrated differential responses to the five stimulus types.
• Significant differences in auditory responses were observed between higher-functioning and lower-functioning children.
• Developmental level was a key factor influencing auditory perception and response.

Conclusions:

• Behavioral audiometry can reveal differential responses in multiply handicapped children.
• Auditory assessment requires consideration of developmental level and stimulus type.
• Combining behavioral techniques with objective tests and longitudinal assessment is recommended for this population.