Semin Hear 2002; 23(4): 277-286
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-35876
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Auditory Processing Disorders: Management Approaches Past to Present

Diane Wertz, James W. Hall III, Wes Davis II
  • Department of Communicative Disorders, College of Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Publication History

Publication Date:
04 December 2002 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The ultimate goal of screening and diagnostic assessment for auditory processing disorder (APD) is to determine an effective management strategy. The effectiveness and precision of treatment for APD is directly related to the specificity and accuracy of the diagnosis. Historically, confusion and vagueness in the definition and diagnosis of APD was associated with scattered management approaches with unproven or, at best, questionable therapeutic value. Although embraced by some audiologists and speech-language pathologists, the outcome of these often broad-based and rather generic management methods was not supported by any evidence. In this article, we review the evolution of APD management from the two distinct professional perspectives of audiology and speech-language pathology. Linkages between current treatment options and earlier management techniques are emphasized. The goal of this brief review is to provide the reader with a better understanding of the precursors to diverse conventional and computer-mediated therapeutic techniques that are now available.