October 13, 2015

More on SPD: Sound Sensitivites

*Guest post
Auditory Processing Disorder
 Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a neurological condition contained within the Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) spectrum that affects how the brain processes sound. Children with APD often exhibit hypersensitivity to sound and have difficulty perceiving, understanding, recalling and using spoken language in an appropriate way while discriminating against environmental noise.

In clinical testing, using single tone stimulus, those with APD present a typical auditory response making it difficult to diagnose. In laboratory studies however, there is a common thread of auditory processing latency in those with APD. This delayed processing points clearly to a neurological basis for the disorder.


Frustration with not being able to properly process verbal interactions with others leads to behavioral issues similar to those with the condition of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD),  and in fact many with ADD overtly suffer from APD. Severe APD may be the cause for disassociation and lack of concentration and attention of those with ADD.

A child with APD:

1. Has difficulty listening for extended periods of time in school and “zones out”.

2. Does not respond to or has difficulty following verbal instructions.

3. Cannot communicate well in noisy environments.

4. Exhibits sound sensitivity and becomes easily stressed in noisy environments.

5. Has difficulty remembering information received verbally or through the written word.

6. Is over stimulated by or distracted by random noises.
Distorted sensory processing, leading to disorganized neurological development, can result in learning disabilities. However, auditory intervention can help to organize a child’s sensory processing skills, and greatly improve his or her chance to lead a full and successful life. Intervention can help at any age, but it is important to take action as soon as possible in order to maximize the result. Developmental symptoms include the following.



• Delayed speech.
• Lack of attention and concentration.
• Problems following verbal communications and directions.
• Limited vocabulary.
• Sound sensitivities.
• Agitated and easily distracted by noise.
• Delayed reading skills.
• Difficulty reading aloud.
• Specific confusion with consonants and similar sounding words.
• Difficulty with colors, shapes, numbers, alphabet, etc.
• Letter and number reversals or transpositions.
• Difficulty remembering facts.
• Lack of mental flexibility and ability to learn new skills.
• Other academic problems.
• Problems grasping abstract concepts like the concept of time.
• Slow development of fine motor skills and handwriting.
• Underdeveloped balance and proprioception.
• Injury prone.
• Difficulty communicating their needs.
• Disassociation and lack of empathy.
• Frustration with other children.
• Does not understand body language and facial expressions.
• Difficulty making friends.
• Impulsive behavior.


http://www.sensoryprocessingdisorderparentsupport.com/

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