What are the causes of auditory processing disorders?
Auditory processing difficulties can be present in both children and adults. In the paediatric population specifically, the research refers to several underlying mechanisms for central auditory disorders. The main influences include: • Maturational delay of the Central Auditory Nervous System (CANS) (Musiek et al, 1990). • Developmental abnormalities (inappropriate development of the auditory/language areas of the brain) (Musiek et al, 1990). • Neurologic disease/insult/injury (seizure activity/head trauma) (Musiek et al, 1990). • An early and frequent history of otitis media during the critical period for speech-language development. Research suggests that prolonged otitis media with static or fluctuating hearing loss can lead to central auditory processing deficits that can cause language and learning delays long after the middle ear problem is treated (Keith, cited in Matson, 2005). Research has also outlined other potential influences: • Genetic links (Katz & Wilde, cited in Katz,
