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Semin Hear 2005; 26(4): 253-258
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-922447
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Evaluating an Enigma: What People with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their Parents Would Like Audiologists to Know

Patricia Cloppert1 , Sondra Williams1
  • 1Parent Advocate, The Nisonger Center, Columbus, Ohio
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Publication History

Publication Date:
15 November 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Evaluating hearing in a person with an autism spectrum disorder can be a daunting task for the child, his or her parents, and the audiologist alike. This article, written from a parent's perspective, outlines features unique to the assessment of hearing in people who have autism. Practical suggestions for preparing for the assessment and for obtaining accurate audiometric data are offered. Considerations regarding unique characteristics of autism spectrum disorders in relation to audiologic evaluation are reported. The value of the observation of the audiologist and results of the audiologic evaluation in relation to the diagnosis of autism are discussed. This article also highlights special considerations related to treatment of hearing loss in relation to unique features of autism spectrum disorders. The goal is to provide the audiologist with awareness of the needs of people with autism spectrum disorders and provide preparation needed to assess hearing with this population.

KEYWORDS

Autism - parents - family - assessment

Patricia Cloppert

Parent Advocate, The Nisonger Center, 325 McCampbell Hall, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210

Email: Cloppert.2@osu.edu

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