A comparison of two response-reinforcement methods in pure-tone testing of the retarded.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a visual reward method or play audiometry is a better motivator in eliciting the lowest possible pure-tone thresholds from a group of Down's syndrome adults. Thresholds were obtained at 250, 500, 2000, 4000, and 6000 Hz for both procedures using a modified ascending method. The method of testing was constructed such that each of the two procedures served as a comparison for validity of the other. The level of significant difference between the play audiometry and the visual reward method was determined using the Sign Test. In each case, there appeared to be a significant difference between the two tests, but the difference was attributed to the order of administration of the tests and practice rather than by the tests themselves. The data obtained suggests that more accurate auditory thresholds may be determined by administering two pure-tone tests and accepting the second as most valid.