Communication as social engagement: implications for interactions between deaf and hearing persons

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Communication Studies
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Communication is fundamental to social engagement.
• Interactions between deaf and hearing individuals can face unique communication barriers.
• These barriers may negatively impact social connection and information exchange.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the impact of communication constraints on social engagement between deaf and hearing persons.
• To describe the phenomenon of "spoiled" communication in cross-cultural interactions.
• To provide a deeper understanding of the social dynamics in deaf-hearing communication.

Main Methods:

• A meta-ethnographic approach was employed.
• Qualitative research synthesis was used to analyze existing studies.
• The focus was on understanding the lived experiences within communication breakdowns.

Main Results:

• "Spoiled" communication significantly hinders social engagement.
• Participants reported feelings of frustration and isolation due to communication difficulties.
• Loss of "full" information was a common consequence, affecting relationship depth.

Conclusions:

• Addressing communication barriers is crucial for fostering inclusive social engagement.
• Interventions should focus on improving the quality of communication between deaf and hearing individuals.
• Further research is needed to develop effective strategies for "spoiled" communication.