Hello All,

Something I’ve been thinking about more lately is how my auditory processing problems have affected my life.

Just wanted to open this up for a discussion for those of you who also face problems understanding oral instructions.

Do you have difficulties processing what people say despite having a functional chain of hearing organs? Are you able to follow written instructions to the shock of neurotypicals who may sort you into a lower ability bucket?

Thanks, -G

  • Arcanepotato@crazypeople.onlineEnglish
    8·
    3 months ago

    Do you have difficulties processing what people say despite having a functional chain of hearing organs?

    Yes, but it presents as me not being able to hear. Especially if there are many noises happening at once. So I just say I have hearing problems because it’s not technically a lie?

    I use that to explain why I use subtitles and why I need people to repeat themselves. What’s actually going on in my head is my processing is too slow. For example, I will ask someone to repeat themselves and maybe 50% of the time my brain will catch up before they start talking again. And then I get impatient because I don’t need them to repeat themselves anymore, but then I’m angry and forget what they are saying. It’s distressing, honestly.

    Are you able to follow written instructions

    Yes

    to the shock of neurotypicals who may sort you into a lower ability bucket?

    No, but probably because I was sure it was bad hearing for so long and presented it as such and I have little scripts. I carry a notebook around (which is totally appropriate for my workplace, so it’s not weird) and say something like, “I really want to make sure I understand what your asking and don’t forget, so let me write that down.” and maybe ask them to repeat it and ask clarifying questions through that process. It’s usually received as me being very interested in their request.

    I’m in a position of power where I am generally doing people favors, so your milage may vary. Most people who don’t suck want you to be successful so waiting a sec for you to write it down is generally okay in my experience.