Dichotic training in children with auditory processing disorder

Objectives: Several test batteries have been suggested for auditory processing disorder (APD) diagnosis. One of the important tests is dichotic listening tests. Significant ear asymmetry (usually right ear advantage) can be indicative of (APD). Two main trainings have been suggested for dichotic listening disorders: Differential Interaural Intensity Difference (DIID) and Dichotic Offset Training (DOT). The aim of the present study was comparing the efficacy of these two trainings in resolving dichotic listening disorders. Methods: 12 children in the age range of 8 to 9 years old with APD were included (mean age 8.41 years old +/- 0.51). They all had abnormal right ear advantage based on established age-appropriate norms for Farsi dichotic digit test. Then subjects were randomly divided into two groups (each contained 6 subjects): group 1 received DIID training (8.33 years old +/- 0.51) and group 2 received DOT training (8.50 years old +/- 0.54). Results: Both trainings were effective in improvement of dichotic listening. There was a significant difference between two trainings with respect to the length of treatment (P-value <= 0.001). DOT needed more training sessions (12.83 +/- 0.98 sessions) than DIID (21.16 +/- 0.75 sessions) to achieve the same amount of performance improvement. Conclusion: Based on the present study it can be assumed that DOT might be a good replacement for DIID training in cases that DIID is not applicable and DIID candidacy conditions are not met. To generalize the results, studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.