Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

NURTURE INFORMATION HUB

Evidence:

Central Auditory Processing Disorder Profile in Premature and Term Infants
Sanjiv B. Amin, MD, MS,1 Mark Orlando, PhD, MBA,2 Christy Monczynski, AuD, MS,2 and Kim Tillery, PhD, CCC-A3

“Premature children differ in CAPD profile compared with term children. Findings suggest possible etiological differences for CAPD such as jaundice or differential susceptibility of premature children for altered PST and SSW performance when compared with the term children.”

Education:

Auditory Processing Disorder is also known as Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD). It is a disorder that causes a disruption in the way that an individual’s brain understands what they are hearing. They usually don’t recognise slight differences between sounds and words, even when the sounds are loud and clear. It isn’t related to hearing problems or intelligence.

With the right therapy, teenagers with APD can be successful in school and life. Early diagnosis is important, otherwise it can lead to depression which can trigger substance abuse in teenagers.

Symptoms of APD can range from mild to severe.

Some symptoms in teenagers are:

  • Pronunciation problems as unable to process the sounds in speech
  • Difficulty with learning foreign languages because of the new speech sounds and vocabulary
  • Difficulty remembering a list
  • Poor musical skills
  • Trouble paying attention in class
  • Difficulties in communicating with family and friends and avoiding large gatherings
  • Poor organisation skills

Empowerment:

Learning as much as you can about APD can help with easing anxiety. It can guide you to make more informed choices when you can see how much you can do for them.  Also meeting other parents that has a teenager with APD or joining an online support group which help support you. Working closely with your teenagers’ school to ensure all the right services and resources are in place for your teenager.

Parents can empower their teenager by:

  • providing them with a quiet study place
  • Reducing background noise at home
  • Have them look at you when you are speaking
  • Building your teenagers self-esteem by talking positively to them and believing in them
  • Providing them with a speech therapist

Useful links:

https://auditoryprocessingdisorder.com.au/


Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.

NurturEConnect

Confirmation Content

Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].