In the April 1993 issue of the Archives, the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology News section featured various opinions on the use of audiograms prior to polyethylene tube placement in children. In response, we received a letter questioning the feasibility of hearing testing in young children. Below is a review of behavioral hearing testing in children.
Children are complex and each unique in their specific behavior and development. Otitis media can have many different effects on the behavior and development of children, such as delay in speech and language skills, shortened attention span, behavior problems, poor eating, and disrupted sleeping patterns. A hearing evaluation provides valuable information for the treatment of the child with otitis media. Hearing levels may vary from very slight to moderate, and the degree of hearing impairment is tied to the degree of impact on other areas of development. Behavioral testing is the most cost-effective, noninvasive