Central auditory processing disorders (CAPDs) are a type of neurological problem that affects ability to listen to sounds even though hearing function is normal. For example, many individuals who have CAPDs find it difficult to distinguish speech from background noise. These neurological problems are also referred to as auditory processing disorders (APDs) and they may be present in as much as 5% of the general population. Although some CAPDs can be attributed to brain damage, lead poisoning, or inadequate oxygenation, others appear due to developmental disorders. In children, CAPDs can cause a variety of learning disorders and language impairments, presumably as a result of chronic problems with their understanding of auditory information. Since CAPDs can have wide-ranging effects, a variety of therapies have been developed for their treatment that focus on improving the quality of the auditory information being delivered or improving the ability of the hearer to focus on the message being given.