Final answer:
To assess hearing acuity in a 6-month-old, professionals observe the infant's reactions to sounds and check for auditory responses and reflexes, which are indicators of hearing ability at this age.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing hearing acuity in a 6-month-old child, examiners use behavioral methods since traditional hearing tests requiring verbal responses are not feasible. Observing the infant's reaction to sounds, such as turning their head towards a noise, is part of the behavioral assessment at this age. Moreover, specific auditory responses and reflexes, like the startle reflex to a sudden loud sound, can help determine auditory function. An infant's developmental milestones, such as their ability to sit up or babble, can also offer clues about their hearing.