Toward More Effective Audiological Assessment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Pediatric audiologists should be well prepared for the challenges involved in the assessment of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Results of the formal audiological evaluation inform all subsequent testing, yet many variables can lead to limited and/or questionable findings. When these data are reported in vague terms, there is a potential for confusion and misinterpretation. This is significant, given that many individuals with ASDs have reported long-term auditory complaints. This article provides a fresh look at the typical pediatric audiological assessment protocol while considering the unique parameters of ASDs. A review of the auditory concerns voiced by parents and verbal adults with ASDs is included, and clinicians are encouraged to consider alternative testing approaches in addition to the traditional test battery. Specific strategies are explored for enhancing the level of cooperation exhibited by children with ASDs in the audiological assessment context. KEYWORDS Audiological assessment - autism spectrum disorders - pediatric