____________ is a decrease in word recognition performance at higher intensity levels and is associated with ____________ disorder.

The correct answer highlights the phenomenon known as "rollover," which describes a decrease in word recognition performance as the intensity of the sound increases. This typically occurs in individuals with retrocochlear disorders, which affect the neural pathways beyond the cochlea, such as the auditory nerve or brainstem. In cases of retrocochlear lesions or damage, even as a person is presented with louder sounds, their ability to recognize words may diminish due to the dysfunction of the auditory pathways responsible for processing speech.

In contrast, cochlear disorders usually lead to a different pattern of performance, where word recognition does not significantly decrease at higher intensity levels. Rollover effects are specific to pathologies that disrupt the central processing of auditory information, hence why the association with retrocochlear disorders is accurate.

Understanding the relationship between rollover and its association with retrocochlear disorders is essential for auditory assessments, as it aids in diagnosing the specific type of hearing impairment and determining the appropriate management and intervention strategies for individuals experiencing these auditory challenges.