Parents' use of Saudi sign language: patterns, determinants, and implications

This study explored the extent to which parents of deaf children in Al-Kharj use Saudi Sign Language (SSL), the challenges they encounter in learning and using the language, and their suggestions for improving communication with their children. A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 14 parents. Data were analyzed thematically. The findings indicate that most parents had no prior exposure to sign language before their child's diagnosis and relied largely on self-initiated learning due to limited institutional support. Participants reported difficulties expressing emotions and abstract concepts in SSL and often supplemented signing with facial expressions or written communication. Parents also emphasized the need for specialized training centers and culturally appropriate Arabic visual learning resources. Overall, the findings suggest that supporting parents in learning SSL may contribute to improved communication, stronger emotional connections, and enhanced social and educational participation for deaf children in the Saudi context.