DHH mixed-hearing families

Parental Perceptions of Children’s d/Deaf Identity Shaping Technology Use: A Qualitative Study on Communication Technologies in Mixed-hearing Families

Keyi Zeng, Jingyang Lin, Ruiqi Chen, RAY LC, Pan Hui, Xin Tong

Abstract

Various assistive technologies have been developed to facilitate communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) individuals and hearing people. However, as mixed-hearing families (i.e., hearing parents with DHH children or DHH parents with hearing children) encounter unique communication dynamics, the limited studies explored the use and perception of technologies in such families. To explore this question, we conducted semi-structured interviews with eleven parents from mixed-hearing families, examining their current use of technology in communication, as well as their perceptions, challenges, and expectations. Our findings show that spoken language is the primary communication method, with parents prioritizing spoken language education over sign language. Additionally, current technology use, expectations, and potential consequences were identified. This study contributes empirical insights and design implications to enhance communication technologies for mixed-hearing families.

Abstract

Various assistive technologies have been developed to support communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) individuals and hearing people. However, in mixed-hearing families (i.e., hearing parents with DHH children or DHH parents with hearing children), communication occurs more frequently and significantly impacts children's language development, well-being, self-identity, and family relationships. To explore this, we conducted semi-structured interviews with eleven parents from mixed-hearing families, examining their current use of technology, as well as their perceptions, challenges, and expectations. Our findings show that spoken language is the primary communication method, with parents prioritizing spoken language education over sign language. Additionally, challenges in conveying and understanding information, along with potential consequences of current technology use, were identified. This study contributes empirical insights and design implications to enhance communication technologies for mixed-hearing families.