Exploring social isolation in adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing: professionals’ perspectives

OBJECTIVE: There is a growing emphasis on the importance of social integration during adolescence. However, adolescents who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) may face a greater risk of social isolation. This study explores the social isolation experienced by adolescents who are D/HH during their transition from primary to secondary education from the perspective of professionals. It also aims to provide recommendations for interventions to reduce this social isolation. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive methodology with in-depth interviews. STUDY SAMPLE: Ten professionals who work with adolescents who are D/HH, including audiologists, speech-language pathologists, sign language teachers, a Teacher of the Deaf, and a mental health professional. RESULTS: The analysis revealed five themes which described the social isolation experienced by adolescents who are D/HH, including: (1) communication difficulties, (2) challenges in adolescents' social development and mental health, and (3) stigma of deafness impacting adolescents' identities, (4) adolescents "want to fit in", and (5) a range of solutions can reduce social isolation in adolescents. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight factors impacting social connections of adolescents who are D/HH. Solutions identified by professionals include support from role models, public and adolescents' education and family support, early sign language access, and mental health services.