Investigation of central auditory processing performance in individuals with and without stuttering

Abstract

Background: Differences in core auditory processing abilities, such as sound timing, frequency discrimination, auditory perception, and auditory memory, have been suggested in stutterers, despite the fact that the precise origin of stuttering is not entirely understood. It is suggested that these differences may play a role in the development of stuttering. The aim of our study is to assess the temporal central auditory processing performance in individuals with stuttering and compare it to individuals without stuttering to uncover potential differences stuttering and compare it to individuals without stuttering to reveal potential differences. Method: In current study, a total of 60 right-handed participants between the ages of 8 and 17 were included, divided into two balanced groups based on age, education, and gender: individuals with stuttering (n = 30) and individuals without stuttering (n = 30). All participants underwent the Frequency Pattern Test, Duration Pattern Test, and Gaps-In-Noise test. Results: Individuals who stutter showed lower performance in the gap detection threshold and the percentage of total correct gap identification parameters of the Frequency Pattern Test, Duration Pattern Test, and Gaps-In-Noise test compared to fluent speakers. Conclusions: The findings indicate a potential relationship between stuttering and central auditory processing. In this context, incorporating central auditory processing measures into the assessment and therapy processes for stuttering may enhance the likelihood of obtaining more accurate results.