Clinical Issues in Central Auditory Processing Disorders

Abstract

Speech-language pathologists are often faced with the need to assess and treat the suspected auditory processing problems of children with language and learning difficulties. This article discusses central auditory processing disorders (CAPDs). Included are a discussion of background information, a current definition of CAPDs, a general discussion of test battery approaches following suggestions made by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association (ASHA) Task Force on Central Auditory Processing Consensus Development (1996), and various approaches to intervention with persons identified as having a CAPD. Finally, there is brief discussion of remaining questions to be answered. The article attempts to examine various controversies related to all aspects of CAPDs and increase the reader's awareness of current issues concerning this disorder.