Factors in childhood and adolescence that may influence the auditory processing: a systematic review

Abstract:

There is a consensus in the literature on the importance of the auditory system for the development of oral and written language. The Auditory Processing Disorder refers to the difficulty of processing auditory information. The aim of this systematic literature review was to analyze which factors occurring in childhood and adolescence may influence the auditory processing and that are not necessarily the cause or consequence of the disorder. Two researchers used the PubMed and SciELO databases independently. The descriptors used were auditory processing, auditory perception, children and adolescence, in various combinations. Among the 205 articles identified, 30 articles matched the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Only two studies showed positive factors influencing auditory processing skills: the influence of musical stimulation in infancy and the use of methylphenidate as a treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The influences are, mostly, negative for the auditory processing, and we emphasize the relationship of the disorder with dyslexia, learning difficulties, specific language impairment, low socioeconomic status, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, premature birth, phonological disorders, visual impairment, mouth breathing, stuttering, otitis media, cleft lip and palate, anemia, exposure to metallic mercury, obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, CVA, socially vulnerable children and dysphonic children. The Auditory Processing is sensitive to the negative influences related to environmental and chemical factors, socioeconomic status, and language, auditory and neurological disorders. Exposure to music and the use of methylphenidate were the only factors with positive influence on the auditory processing.

Keywords:
Hearing Tests; Auditory Perception; Child; Adolescent