Sound localisation in profoundly deaf children

Author(s): Hickson, F.

Journal/Book: J Brit Assn Teach Deaf. 1996; 20: 50 Topsham Road, Exeter Bolton, England EX2 4NF. Royal School for the Deaf. 42-49.

Abstract: This study investigated the ability of four profoundly deaf children to localise warble tones at 500Hz 1000Hz and 2000Hz, in each of three aided conditions: aided monaurally right and left, and aided binaurally. Results showed all subjects to be poor, localisers though one individual localised significantly better when aided binaurally. A nother subject localised better when aided monaurally, either right or left, and the other two subjects showed no significant difference in any of the three aided conditions. Frequency dependence of ability to localise was shown in 2 subjects who localised better in the higher frequencies. It is suggested that, although binaural hearing aids may be preferable for profoundly deaf subjects, there is very little evidence of superior localisation ability, except in one individual case. Tactics of communication with profoundly deaf individuals should account for this poor localisation ability, drawing attention to the location of stimuli and giving time for correct localisation by the deaf person.

Note: Article K Cosgrove, Birkdale Further Educ, Direct Support Hearing Impa, Southport, England

Keyword(s): HEARING

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