Auditory System
The Auditory System collects environmental sounds using the external ear and delivers the information through the ear canal to the brain for processing.
Characteristics of Auditory Sensitivities
- May not react to sounds that could typically startle or may react strongly to what many people would not attend to or find uncomfortable
- More aware of specific types of sounds or combination of sounds.
- Sensitivity to particular pitches of sound or complexity of sound.
- Unexpected sounds may result in extreme discomfort and reaction (ex: fire alarms)
- May recognize or connect more strongly to the pitch of the voice (male vs. female, child vs. adult).
- May be intensely interested in and calmed by music. May have natural musical talent
Strategies to Address Challenges
- White noise such as fans, ‘sound machines’, or apps for noise canceling to block out distracting sounds.
- Provide earbuds with music during work to block disruptive or painful noises
- Offer noise cancelling headphones in situations that are particularly uncomfortable, loud, and auditorily overwhelming
- Provide opportunities for breaks in quiet environments
- Prepare or prime for environments that will be loud and discuss strategies to use in those situations.
Considerations for Employment:
While every individual is unique and no one aspect of the individual's strengths or challenges can determine the right employment options, it is critical not to assume individuals with ASD cannot succeed in many environments. In some situations, the differences may actually be the factor that leads to unique employment opportunities. Employment examples below are offered as a way to think differently about the potential of individuals with ASD.
- Develop sound arrangements/ compositions for catchy commercials
- Selecting building materials and furnishings for home/office space for sound control
- Choose ground covering for a landscape company to buffer outside noise.
Return to the Sensory page of the Employment and the Youth with ASD guide.