The presence of a central auditory processing disorder can only be determined utilizing a comprehensive battery of tests performed by an audiologist. However, certain behaviors can help identify at-risk children and adults with CAPD. The following list are commonly reported behaviors of clients referred to the Able Kids Foundation.

• Difficulty following directions
• Mishears what is said
• Sensitive to loud sounds
• Easily distracted, frustrated, and/or confused
• Overwhelmed in noisy places
• Exhibits a short attention span
• Struggles to complete assignments
• Easily upset in new situations
• Labeled as an underachiever or daydreamer
• Experiences anxiety or tension
• Exhausted at the end of the school/work day
• Talks excessively
• Lacks self-confidence
• Forgetful
• Shows restlessness and has problems sitting still
• Difficulty with transitions and/or changes in routine

Children and adults with CAPD may also demonstrate delayed responses to verbal stimuli in an effort to “buy time” to process incomplete information. The auditory input they receive may be degraded enough that the individual needs more time to integrate incomplete information into a meaningful message.