Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) involves difficulty processing auditory information even when hearing acuity is normal. The ear may hear sounds normally, but the brain has difficulty decoding and interpreting auditory information.

Signs and Symptoms

• Difficulty following directions, especially multi-step instructions
• Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
• Listening appears to require significant effort and concentration
• Difficulty with reading and spelling related to phonological processing
• May have normal hearing test results
• Difficulty with auditory memory and sequencing
• May be easily distracted by background noise

Relationship to Speech and Language

CAPD can significantly impact language development and academic success, particularly in reading and spelling. Treatment may involve both audiological intervention and speech-language pathology support.

Speech-Language Support

SLPs can provide strategies to support auditory processing through listening activities, language-based auditory processing activities, and collaborative work with audiologists.