The frequency-following response as an assessment of spatial processing

Abstract

Objective: It is important to detect children with difficulties distinguishing speech-in-noise early. Prompt identification may be assisted by an evoked potential. The aims of the present study were: 1) to evaluate the frequency-following response (FFR) as a measure of binaural processing and spatial listening and, 2) to investigate the relationship between the FFR and a behavioural measure of binaural processing and spatial listening.Design: A single group, repeated measures design. The FFR was recorded in two different spatial conditions and amplitudes compared to spatial listening ability.Study Sample: Thirty-two children (aged 6.0 to 13.1 years) with a range of spatial processing abilities as measured behaviourally using the Listening in Spatialised Noise Sentences test (LiSN-S).Results: FFR waveforms were elicited using speech-like stimuli in co-located and separated conditions. A significant (p≤0.005) spatial advantage effect was observed with larger amplitudes in the separated condition. No correlations were observed between FFR amplitude and LiSN-S results.Conclusions: The FFR shows promise as a measure of binaural processing and spatial listening, but could be measuring different processes to those measured by the LiSN-S.