Inconsistent response to sound detected in ASD

A new study by researchers at Northwestern University offers insights into the auditory processing deficits that are a hallmark of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). 

Sebastian Otto-Meyer and colleagues hypothesized that these deficits stem from an inability to respond to sound in a consistent manner. To investigate this theory, they measured the frequency-following response, or FFR, of 12 children with high-functioning ASD and 12 neurotypical controls. They explain, “The FFR is the brain’s response to a periodic sound, including complex sounds such as speech, and gives a nuanced picture of auditory processing.” 

Their analysis, which used multiple speech stimuli, found that “children with ASD have less stable FFRs to speech sounds relative to their typically developing peers.” They conclude, “This reduced auditory stability could contribute to the language and communication profiles observed in individuals with ASD.” 

The researchers cite evidence that the FFR can be positively affected by language and phonological training. “Therefore,” they say, “it is conceivable that the unstable responses to speech in children with ASD could be improved … given the right type of auditory and language training. Given the beneficial impacts of music and music therapy on ASD and brain plasticity/cognition, music might be a good place to start.”

Citations

“Children with autism spectrum disorder have unstable neural responses to sound,” Sebastian Otto-Meyer, Jennifer Krizman, Travis WhiteSchwoch, and Nina Kraus, Experimental Brain Research, January 6, 2018 (online). Address: Nina Kraus, Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory, Northwestern University, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, [email protected].