Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Self-Reported Life Events Among Deaf Emerging Adults—An Exploratory Study, Debra H. Zand, Katherine Pierce

JADARA

This study was undertaken to investigate the self-reported life experiences of a national sample of deaf emerging adults (18 to 30 years). Recruitment was completed through deaf computer listserves. Participants (N=44) rated a variety of life experiences regarding occurrence, impact and valence. A median split was conducted on the age variable yielding 2 groups: younger and older. Results show a trend with the older group reporting events consistent with later stages of emerging adulthood; the younger group experiencing events consistent with early stages of young adulthood (same progression as hearing peers). Implications of these findings and future directions are discussed.

Intimate Partner Violence In The Deaf Community, Teresa V. Crowe

JADARA

Background: Recent indicators show that domestic violence is prevalent in the United States and in the world. Individuals with disabilities, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing are at a higher risk for physical, sexual, and psychological abuse.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to a) investigate the prevalence of intimate partner violence in past and present relationships, b) identify predictors of abusive relationships, and c) categorize support systems for those needing help.

Method: A sample of 167 deaf and hard of hearing individuals completed an anonymous online survey about their current and past relationships.

Results: Results …

Becoming Psychologists: Barriers And Bridges Encountered By Deaf And Hard Of Hearing Students In Education And Training Settings, Deborah Schooler, Lori A. Day, Sheila Maynard, Ryanne Rosier, Ashley Pabon, Cara A. Miller, Kathryn Wagner

JADARA

Culturally competent mental health providers are needed to serve deaf and hard of hearing populations. This study used a mixed-methods approach to investigate deaf and hard of hearing students’ experiences of bias, affirmation, and program climate at a bilingual (ASL/written English) university. Results emphasized the importance of access to signed classroom communication and mentoring opportunities with deaf faculty. Participants also described extensive peer conflict, often centering on D/deaf identities, language use, and/or race. Participants also reported experiencing discrimination when seeking internships and externships and wished to see faculty actively engaged in resisting biases experienced during their training.