Determination of language performance by discriminant function analysis in Mandarin-speaking preschoolers with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder

Characteristics of the audiological performance of children with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) have been identified; however, studies regarding factors influencing their language development, especially those related to aural-oral rehabilitation, are relatively few. This study aimed to investigate classification functions among the factors regarding audiological, interventional (rehabilitation) and demographic variables that can help determine group membership in language performance for Mandarin-speaking preschoolers with ANSD. Children with ANSD aged 3–6 years (n = 27) enrolled in an auditory-verbal therapy were recruited. The combination of factors that could be used to predict memberships of children regarding whether they achieved age-appropriate language performance or were at risk of language delay were explored using discriminant function analysis. Maternal education level, age at initial hearing aid fitting, and duration of rehabilitation were all significant factors in predicting the membership of children with ANSD and whether they could achieve an age-appropriate language level or were at risk for language delay. The correct rate for predicting the memberships ranged from 70.4% to 83.3%. Duration of rehabilitation accounted for the greatest effect on discriminant membership regarding achieving age-appropriate language performance and being at risk of language delay. Effect of maternal education level tended to centralize on language comprehension. Differences were observed in the quantifiable effects of predictors in discriminant functions for language ability domains. Except for using suitable hearing devices, adequate duration of enrollment in aural and oral rehabilitation would also be important for children with ANSD to develop better language abilities.