Normative values of auditory processing behavioral tests for Chilean children between 7 and 12 years old: an initial proposal

Abstract

Introduction: Auditory processing disorder in children is related to language disorders, poor academic performance, learning disorders, and psychosocial difficulties. There is inter- national consensus on the usefulness of behavioral tests for their evaluation and diagnosis. Aim: To establish normative values for auditory processing behavioral tests in Chilean pe- diatric population with normal neurodevelopment and hearing thresholds. Material and Method: An observational cross-sectional study was carried out. One hundred fifty-three subjects between 7 and 12 years old from the Metropolitan Region participated. Frequency pattern tests, filtered speech, and dichotic digits were studied. Fractional regression models were built to estimate the normative values, and cut-off scores were also calculated at the 2.5, 5, and 10 percentiles. Results: There were no significant differences between ears for the tests studied except for the dichotic digits test. Single models were built for the frequency and filtered speech patterns tests and independent models for each ear for the dichotic digit test. All estimates were significant and had acceptable levels of precision. Conclusion: The normative values and cut-off scores were obtained for the three tests studied. The values obtained were similar to those reported in other populations considering the effects of ear, age, sex, and education.