central auditory processing, in which the neural representation of acoustic signals is processed after they leave the cochlea and travel through the auditory nervous system to the primary auditory cortices of the left and right hemispheres.This continuum involves the following types of processing: Richard’s (2013, 2017) continuum of processing includes both auditory processing and language processing. The act of processing speech is complex and involves the engagement of auditory, cognitive, and language mechanisms, often simultaneously (Medwetsky, 2011). There is general agreement that auditory perceptual abilities and language development are interrelated-as are auditory processing skills and pre-literacy skills (Corriveau et al., 2010)-and that it can be difficult to separate the influence of auditory and language skills with regard to academic demands (Richard, 2012, 2013). Central Auditory Processing and Language Processing These mechanisms underlie skills such as auditory discrimination, temporal aspects of audition, and binaural processing (ASHA, 1996 Bellis, 2011 Chermak & Musiek, 1997). Medwetsky (2011) provides in-depth information on this topic.Ĭentral auditory processing consists of mechanisms that preserve, refine, analyze, modify, organize, and interpret information from the auditory peripheral system. Knowledge of the neuroanatomy and physiology of the CANS is essential for understanding and interpreting underlying processes and deficits. Central Auditory ProcessingĬentral auditory processing-also seen in the literature as (central) auditory processing or auditory processing-is the perceptual processing of auditory information in the central auditory nervous system (CANS) and the neurobiological activity that underlies that processing and gives rise to electrophysiologic auditory potentials.

Long-standing variation in perspectives within the professions of audiology and speech-language pathology regarding the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of CAPD makes the need for informed clinical decision making of paramount importance. The ASHA Practice Portal aims to provide access to the best available evidence, expertise, and resources to support the individual clinical decision making of professionally educated clinicians. See ASHA’s resource on hearing-related topics: terminology guidance for more information. Hearing-related terminology may vary depending upon context and a range of factors.

See the Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) Evidence Map for summaries of the available research on this topic.

Content is relevant to both developmental and acquired CAPD however, this page does not specifically address adult acquired CAPD from causes such as brain injury, disease, or factors of aging. The scope of this page is central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) in children and adults.

Auditory processing disorder with adhd