Qualitative exploration reveals how sign language and social ties enhance life satisfaction in Deaf individuals, suggesting the need for supportive education and definitions.
Key Points
The research aims to investigate the relationship between sign language use, social connectedness, and life satisfaction among Deaf adults.
Conducted in-person and remote interviews with 12 Deaf adults
Employed reflexive thematic analysis to interpret participant experiences
Compared experiences of sign language and spoken language usage
Identified two main themes: Gaining Deafness and Empowering Deaf Pride
Participants reported enhanced authenticity and agency through social connectedness
Findings indicate increased life satisfaction linked to Deaf culture and sign language use