Controversies in Central Auditory Processing Disorder

From The Critics

Reviewer: Ryan McCreery, M.S.(Boys Town National Research Hospital)
Description: This book highlights the current state of research and opinion related to the diagnosis of hearing disorders outside of the peripheral auditory system. The authors intentionally omit discussions about treatment to address fundamental issues surrounding prevalence, etiology, and comorbidity that influence assessment decisions.
Purpose: Unlike most books on central auditory processing disorders, this one acknowledges the lack of consensus among researchers and professionals about what constitutes auditory processing deficits and how assessment of these disorders should be undertaken. Many previous books on this topic have operated under the assumption that current diagnostic tools are valid and useful in differentiating auditory processing disorders from other conditions. This book does an excellent job of examining more fundamental issues such as comorbidity and modality specificity that could preclude accurate diagnosis.
Audience: From basic historical perspectives to advanced topics such as the most recent electrophysiological techniques, this book covers a wide range of information. It would be an adequate resource for students, clinicians, and researchers who are interested in learning more about auditory processing and related disorders.
Features: An overview of fundamental concepts in auditory processing, including anatomy and physiology, neural plasticity, and current models of the central auditory system, is provided. Of particular interest to clinicians who serve patients with auditory processing disorders are chapters on modality specificity, music perception, tinnitus, and auditory neuropathy. By acknowledging the limitations of the current body of research, the authors provide a clear picture of where additional studies are needed. Controversies surrounding treatment strategies are not discussed.
Assessment: This is an excellent encapsulation of the current state of research into the assessment of auditory processing disorders. Few previous books on the topic have been able to concisely represent the spectrum of opinion in this controversial area. The book does not include information about treatment because the authors feel that more fundamental questions regarding assessment require consideration first.