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Deaf and hearing parents' perceptions of family functioning
1Family and Community Health Division, College of Nursing, University of Arizona, Tucson.
Nursing Research
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Deaf and hearing parents share similar views on family functioning, with both groups prioritizing most of the same areas. However, Deaf parents placed a higher value on leisure and recreation.
Area of Science:
- Family Studies
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- Understanding family dynamics is crucial for child development and well-being.
- Previous research has not extensively compared the perceptions of family functioning between Deaf and hearing parents.
- Family functioning encompasses various aspects including cohesion, adaptability, and satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare perceptions of family functioning between Deaf and hearing parents.
- To identify areas of agreement and disagreement in family functioning priorities.
- To explore the impact of parental hearing status on family life.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive study design was employed.
- The Feetham Family Functioning Survey (FFFS) was utilized.
- Participants included 40 Deaf parents (mothers and fathers) and 40 hearing parents, with the survey administered in American Sign Language (ASL) and written English, respectively.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in the discrepancy (D) subscale scores between Deaf and hearing parents.
- Both groups agreed on 7 out of the 10 most important areas of family functioning.
- Deaf parents ranked leisure/recreational activities as more important than hearing parents.
Conclusions:
- Deaf and hearing parents generally perceive family functioning similarly.
- Parental hearing status does not appear to significantly alter core perceptions of family functioning.
- Leisure and recreation emerge as a key area of distinct importance for Deaf parents within family life.