Auditory processing disorder affects approximately 5 percent of school age children, according to KidsHealth. The cause of this disorder isn't clear and can be challenging to diagnose accurately. Also known as central auditory processing disorder and word deafness, APD can impact children's language skills in multiple ways, affecting both their learning experiences and interaction with others.
Understanding the Disorder
The brain processes and interprets sounds so that you can make sense of their meanings. In children with auditory processing disorder, this process does not take place normally. These children don't have a hearing problem, but they aren't able to pick up on minor differences in the sounds of words. For instance, they may interpret verbal messages in the wrong order or misunderstand certain words. Such problems are more likely to occur if affected children are taking in complicated information or trying to listen in noisy surroundings, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
Effects on Language
These problems with auditory processing have many implications for children's language skills. APD may coincide with learning disabilities and language impairment, according to a 2005 report from the American Speech-Hearing-Language Association. Children in middle childhood, in particular, are at risk for having difficulty with both spoken and written language. School age children with APD are also more likely to face learning challenges and have trouble with spelling and reading. The ASHA report points out that such compromised language skills could affect their academic success and social development.
Concerns
Children with APD face multiple problem areas both in and out of school. The inability to differentiate between certain syllables or words in their language makes listening, following instructions, engaging in conversation, and writing difficult. Language isn't the only concern when dealing with the disorder. They may have trouble recalling information they heard or paying attention to the task at hand. Children with APD are more likely to have problems with behavior, self-esteem and self-worth. These are important considerations because low self-image could affect these kids' motivation to improve their language and social skills.
Getting Help
More research about this disorder is needed. Some children are misdiagnosed with conditions that have similar signs, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Language-building exercises and remedial training could help them combat problem areas; however, addressing the auditory factors is necessary to make advancements in language skills. Electronic devices are available that reduce environmental noise, allowing children to focus better on verbal information. Making the environment more conducive to focused listening is important as well. Audiologists and speech-language pathologists may work together to deliver additional therapies to address auditory and language problems.
