I can't hear you : the socialisation process of adults with cochlear implants and deaf signers : challenges and successes

Abstract

This study explored the socialisation process of adults who have a cochlear implant (CI) and those who are Deaf signers (DS). The main aim of this study was to explore how they fared with regard to socialisation and communication, as well as the support these individuals are offered as a sub-group. These individuals could make good use of support and good communication skills from the other end of the conversation so as to ensure better socialisation. During this qualitative study, six semi-structured interviews were carried out with three CI users, and three DS, using thematic analysis to produce a table of results. The results yielded five superordinate themes and 16 sub-themes. It appears that CI users find it easier than DS to communicate in society, and are given more support from society in general. However, one of the most salient results elicited was that of lack of awareness of the general public, as well of lack of enough and appropriate educational support. This study could be utilized as a guide for the general public and the professionals - individually and one a systemic level - so as to gain better knowledge of how to communicate successfully with these individuals and with regard to intervention, socialisation and education.