Sensory deprivation of the auditory function

Abstract

Sensory deprivation and its implications in the rehabilitation process of the hearing impaired have been extensively discussed among the researchers of the area. Currently, there is a great concern regarding the quality of aural rehabilitation, since it is known that some cortical and sub-cortical changes take place in the central auditory system. Speech perception is a dynamic process by which portions of the auditory system can go through physiologic changes that correspond to perceptual changes. The nervous system’s ability to undergo changes following stimulation is the basis of rehabilitation and therapeutic strategies. Current evidence indicates that all hearing impairment cases in children should receive some intervention, and this intervention must begin as early as possible to prevent negative repercussions to language development.