Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Every child's case is unique. Consult Dr. Swetha Rampally or a qualified pediatric neurologist for diagnosis and treatment recommendations specific to your child.
Baby Not Responding to Name
A baby who does not consistently turn or respond to their name by 12 months needs evaluation for autism, hearing loss, or other developmental concerns.
“Responding to one's own name is a critical social milestone that develops between 6–9 months and should be consistent by 12 months. A baby who does not turn, look or respond to their name — even when hearing other sounds — is showing a social communication red flag. The two most important causes are hearing impairment and autism spectrum disorder, and a hearing test (BERA) should always be the first step.”
తన పేరుకు స్పందించడం 6–9 నెలల మధ్య అభివృద్ధి చెందే కీలక సామాజిక మైలురాయి. పేరుకు స్పందించని శిశువు సామాజిక సంభాషణ హెచ్చరిక సంకేతం చూపుతున్నాడు. వినికిడి పరీక్ష (BERA) ఎల్లప్పుడూ మొదటి అడుగు అవ్వాలి.
Warning Signs to Watch
- •Does not turn or look when name is called by 12 months of age
- •Responds to loud sounds (clap, music) but not to own name
- •Response is inconsistent — sometimes responds, sometimes does not
- •Was responding to name earlier but has stopped (regression)
How We Evaluate
- •BERA hearing test — always the first step to rule out hearing loss
- •Autism screening using M-CHAT-R/F if hearing is normal
- •Comprehensive developmental assessment
Related Medical Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a baby not hearing and not responding due to autism?
A baby with hearing loss will typically not respond to any sounds — including claps, music, or their name. A baby with autism usually responds to environmental sounds but shows reduced response specifically to social stimuli like their name. BERA testing clearly separates these two — it is the mandatory first test in any baby with suspected hearing or social responsiveness concerns.
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