Exploring the experiences of teenagers with cochlear implants

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Psychology

Background:

• Cochlear implantation (CI) is a significant intervention for pediatric hearing loss.
• Understanding the lived experiences of teenage CI users is crucial for effective support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore teenage cochlear implant users' perceptions of deafness, surgery, device fitting, and life with a CI.
• To gain a comprehensive understanding of their experiences.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured in-depth interviews.
• Thematic analysis of interviews.
• Inclusion of ten teenagers (aged 14-16) with at least one CI.

Main Results:

• Significant pre-operative anxiety and post-operative pain were reported by some participants.
• Four teenagers experienced a gap between expectations and the reality of CI adjustment.
• All participants noted enhanced well-being and easier interaction with their environment.

Conclusions:

• Teenagers experience initial challenges but gain significant functional and psychosocial benefits from CIs over time.
• Most users perceive their lives as easier post-implantation.
• The study highlights the development of complex, flexible identities and informs clinical recommendations.