Behavioural Observation Audiometry
Also written as: BOA — Behavioural Observation Audiometry
An informal, non-conditioned hearing screening technique used with neonates and very young infants in which behavioural responses to sound stimuli—such as startle or eye-widening—are observed.
Full Definition
Behavioural Observation Audiometry (BOA) involves presenting calibrated or uncalibrated sound stimuli to a neonate or young infant and observing non-conditioned reflexive responses including the Moro (startle) reflex, eye-widening, cessation of movement, or changes in sucking behaviour. BOA is generally considered the least reliable of the paediatric behavioural test methods due to the subjective nature of response scoring and rapid habituation. It has been largely supplanted for threshold estimation by physiological measures such as ABR and OAE. Editors should note that BOA refers to observation, not conditioning, and should not be used interchangeably with VRA or CPA.
Usage
Usage note: BOA should not be presented as a threshold-estimation technique in formal reports; editors should flag any document that equates BOA responses with quantified hearing thresholds.
In Context
- "Behavioural Observation Audiometry suggested intact hearing in the neonate, though physiological confirmation was recommended." — Newborn hearing screening report
- "BOA responses were inconsistent, prompting referral for ABR testing." — Paediatric audiology clinical note