Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
When working with a client, I often do research to see what is new in the field or go back to refer to diagnostic criteria. Auditory processing disorder sometimes referred to as central processing disorder is a diagnosis that can sometimes be hard to define.
Some even believe that it does not exist,but if you have ever been with someone whose hearing is perfectly normal, but they have difficulty following verbal directions or in noisy environments they are always asking for people to repeat themselves then you know what a problem these symptoms can cause.
What makes Auditory Processing Disorder APD, difficult to diagnosis? Other impairments may share similar symptoms, for instance some one with ADHD may have difficulty following directions, but this is due to inattention. Someone with developmental delays may have difficulty discriminating speech sounds, but this may be due to the global intellectual impairments. A multi-disciplinary approach is the best way to diagnose and address APD.
Oh, and if someone tries to diagnose your child who is under 6 with this disorder don’t let them. It’s too early! Diagnosis can be made no earlier than 7 , by an audiologist.