Reference values of selected auditory temporal processing tests for Polish school children

Introduction: Distorted processing of auditory information has a negative impact on the child’s cognitive development. There are only a few studies conducted by Polish researchers determining the normative values of psychoacoustic tests in auditory processing disorders. They are inconsistent due to different methodologies and different research protocols. Objective: The aim of the work was to determine the reference values of selected psychoacoustic tests for the population of Polish children between 7 and 12 years of age. Material and method: The study group consisted of 213 healthy children from 7 to 12 years of age. The condition for including the child in the study was an intellectual norm, proper sound sensitivity, proper development of children’s voice and speech. All children underwent two auditory temporal processing tests. The diagnostic procedure used a standardized Frequency Pattern Test (FPT) and Duration Pattern Test (DPT). The tests were carried out in accordance with the authors’ recommendations, using the original versions available on the CD for 60 dB SL intensity, simultaneously for the right and left ear. Results: The reference values for FPT and DPT tests were determined at various age ranges in children aged 7–12. It has been shown that auditory functions change with age and development of the child. Reference values including age, language, cultural and educational differences were prepared. Conclusions: The development of reference values for individual tests for the Polish children population is a key element in the reliable diagnosis of auditory processing.