Symptom Tests

[Self-Test] Auditory Processing Disorder Symptoms in Adults

Adults with auditory processing disorder may struggle to understand and communicate with the world. Though most symptoms are diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, these lingering signs at home and work could point to APD, particularly in adults with ADHD / ADD.

By ADDitude Editors Verified Medically reviewed by Lois Heymann, M.A. CCC-SLP, ADDitude’s ADHD Medical Review Panel Reviewed on August 1, 2019
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“Garbled.” That’s how many adults describe communicating and living with auditory processing disorder (APD). APD makes it difficult to understand and interpret information presented orally. This may manifest as poor listening skills, poor reading comprehension, or miscommunication that causes trouble with coworkers, partners, family and friends. For many people, living with APD is like trying to listen on a cell phone with the signal cutting in and out.

This test was adapted from the symptoms of auditory processing disorder (APD) as described by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This is not a diagnostic tool. An accurate diagnosis can only be made through clinical evaluation. For personal use only.

Do you fail to understand why people like live concerts, or singing karaoke?

Do you listen to the TV at high volume, but still have trouble understanding what’s going on, especially if anyone talks during the program?

In school, did you struggle through language arts and other lecture-intensive classes? 

Is spell-check is your best friend?

If you’ve been tested for hearing problems, did the results show no abnormal hearing problems?

Do you fail to notice your cell phone ringing and miss important calls?

Do everyday noises like the vacuum cleaner or blender bother you or “hurt” your ears? 

At work, are you distracted and do you have trouble focusing, especially when working in an open floor plan or cubicle without a door?

When you go out with friends at a noisy bar, do you have trouble following what’s going on?

Do you mis-hear words that rhyme or sound alike, leading to confusion and frustration?

In conversations, do you feel like you’re missing something?

Would you rather express yourself in an email or essay, and avoid phone calls and presentations?

Though most people consider them logistically easier than face –to-face meetings, do conference calls at work really stress you out?


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Auditory Processing Disorder in Adults: Next Steps

1. Take This Test: Sensory Processing Disorder in Adults
2. Read How to Treat Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
3. Find Treatment Options in Auditory Processing Disorder: Where to Go for Help
4. Take This Test: Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Adults
5. Take This Test: Executive Function Deficits in Adults
6. Take This Test: Autism in Adults
8. Find: Specialists or Clinics Near You