Frequency selectivity and temporal resolution in normal and hearing-impaired listeners

Methods of measuring the frequency selectivity of the auditory system using masking techniques are outlined and described in terms of the concept of the auditory filter. The relationship between the auditory filter shape and excitation patterns is described. Evidence is reviewed showing that frequency selectivity is usually reduced in people with cochlear hearing losses. Methods of measuring the temporal resolution of the auditory system are also reviewed, and results are compared for normally hearing and hearing-impaired subjects. Temporal resolution is impaired in most but not all cases of sensorineural hearing loss. It is concluded that the loss of frequency and temporal resolution accompanying cochlear hearing loss is a major cause of the difficulties encountered by the hearing impaired in understanding speech in noisy situations.