Ask an Audiologist: Is There a Connection Between Hearing Loss and Emotional Abuse in Children?

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Ask an Audiologist

What’s the connection between hearing loss and emotional abuse in children?

Audiologists Response

Thank you for your submission to Ask an Audiologist.

Your question is a very good one. There is likely some connection between hearing loss and emotional abuse, but from what I know one does not typically cause the other. For example, it is possible that a child with hearing loss might be more likely to be emotionally abused due to stigma, but I can`t say that for sure. It is also possible that a child who has been emotionally abused may show signs of hearing difficulties, which should be investigated further. Physical abuse, and particularly trauma to the head, can contribute directly to hearing loss.

I recommend that if you know anyone who may be experiencing emotional abuse that you ensure they seek assistance by telling someone they trust, such as their family doctor, calling 9-1-1 in an emergency, or contacting local crisis lines, such as Kid`s Help Phone (1-800-668-6868). If you know of someone who appears to have hearing loss, I would recommend scheduling a hearing test to investigate further. At Hearing Solutions we would be happy to book a hearing test for free at any one of our locations.

If you have any further questions for me, please do not hesitate to ask.

Regards,

Stephanie Loder, B.Sc., M.Cl.Sc., Reg. CASLPO Audiologist, Aud(C)

Stephanie is a registered Audiologist with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario. Stephanie currently sees patients at Hearing Solutions’ Carlingwood Shopping Centre location in Ottawa.