First Advisor

Amy L. Donaldson

Date of Award

Spring 6-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Speech and Hearing Sciences and University Honors

Department

Speech and Hearing Sciences

Language

English

Subjects

Deaf, SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist, Oralism, Audism

Abstract

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the experiences of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HoH) adults and parents of Deaf/HoH children related to speech and language services, and their recommendations for service providers. Historically, professionals have focused on the development of speech and aural/oral skills of Deaf and HoH people. As such, when working with families of newly-identified children with hearing loss, hearing professionals may be ill-equipped to provide culturally-responsive, fully inclusive information and education regarding communication options and opportunities.

Method. This study used a qualitative research design to examine participant experiences related to speech and language services and future recommendations for professionals. Fifteen participants (n=15) completed the open-ended nine-question survey. Data was then analyzed with thematic analysis using an inductive approach at the semantic level.

Results. Six themes were identified and the participants provided several recommendations to speech-language pathologists (SLPs) for their future work with Deaf/HoH people. Although most participants reported that speech-language services were not the right fit for them, they reported that such services could be valuable for other people based on skill profile and/or hearing or speech status. Participants also reported the value of trust within the clinician-client relationship

Conclusion. Historically, professionals have not informed parents of all intervention and language options when children are first identified with hearing loss. Ensuring that families receive access to inclusive, culturally-responsive education and information for all communication options is necessary.

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