Exploring social isolation in adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing: professionals' perspectives.

OBJECTIVE

There is a growing emphasis on the importance of social integration during adolescence. However, adolescents who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) may face a greater risk of social isolation. This study explores the social isolation experienced by adolescents who are D/HH during their transition from primary to secondary education from the perspective of professionals. It also aims to provide recommendations for interventions to reduce this social isolation.

DESIGN

Qualitative descriptive methodology with in-depth interviews.

STUDY SAMPLE: Ten professionals who work with adolescents who are D/HH, including audiologists, speech-language pathologists, sign language teachers, a Teacher of the Deaf, and a mental health professional.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed five themes which described the social isolation experienced by adolescents who are D/HH, including: (1) communication difficulties, (2) challenges in adolescents' social development and mental health, and (3) stigma of deafness impacting adolescents' identities, (4) adolescents "want to fit in", and (5) a range of solutions can reduce social isolation in adolescents.

CONCLUSION

Findings highlight factors impacting social connections of adolescents who are D/HH. Solutions identified by professionals include support from role models, public and adolescents' education and family support, early sign language access, and mental health services.