Auditory Processing in ASD & Sound-Based Interventions

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and limitations in existing treatment options have led parents to seek out treatments such as sound-based training programs. Recent studies have sought to integrate neuroimaging techniques with sound-based interventions in ASD. Given the increasing popularity of these interventions and the paucity of existing research into sound-based therapies, there is significant interest in elucidating the mechanisms by which these therapies impact atypical auditory processing, as well as in the design and refinement of intervention techniques. This paper aims to review the extant literature addressing atypical auditory processing within the ASD population andcurrent sound-based interventions in the context of behavioral, neuroimaging, and neurophysiological domains. The evidence for its effectiveness as an early intervention tool in the treatment of ASD is discussed and suggestions for future directions are offered.