Navigating early intervention: parental decision-making for children with hearing loss in South Africa

This study aimed to explore the decision-making processes of hearing parents of children with hearing loss following diagnosis.

A qualitative research design was employed. Purposive and snowball sampling approaches were used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 parents of children who were diagnosed with hearing loss. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

The decision-making process was described as emotional with financial implications and the need for support which is often limited. Themes around communication modality focused on the dominance of spoken language, sign language as a facilitator, and its limited support from early interventionists. Education choices centred on integration, social development, willingness of schools to accommodate needs, and financial constraints. Key themes in consulting professionals included balancing autonomy with shared decision-making, and the value of support and guidance.

There are several considerations as parents navigate decision-making which is often complex and ongoing. There is a need for support for parents, which is often limited in South Africa. Although parents value guidance from professionals, parental autonomy and the need to make decisions that are suited to individual needs, emphasise the importance of family-centred care.