ERIC Number: EJ1000999
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
Reference Count: 33
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0002-726X
Parents' Communication Decision for Children with Hearing Loss: Sources of Information and Influence
Decker, Kalli B.; Vallotton, Claire D.; Johnson, Harold A.
American Annals of the Deaf, v157 n4 p326-339 2012
Choosing a method of communication for a child with hearing loss is a complex process that must occur early to prevent developmental consequences. Research shows that parents' decisions are influenced by professionals; parental attitudes and knowledge also may be influential. The present study investigated additional influences on parents' choices; data were collected via an online survey (N = 36). Results indicated no effects of parents' knowledge of development on their communication choices, but did indicate an effect of parents' values and priorities for their children. Further, parents who chose speech only received information from education or speech/audiology professionals more often. However, there were no group differences in sources parents cited as influential; all parents relied on their own judgment. Results suggest that parents internalize the opinions of professionals. Thus, accurate information from professionals is necessary for parents to make informed decisions about their children's communication. (Contains 6 tables and 1 figure.)
Descriptors: Hearing Impairments, Interpersonal Communication, Parents, Parent Surveys, Knowledge Level, Child Development, Influences, Parent Attitudes, Speech Communication, Allied Health Personnel, Disability Identification, Early Intervention, Communication Strategies, Deafness, Sign Language, Cultural Influences, Severity (of Disability), Assistive Technology, Access to Information, Decision Making
Gallaudet University Press. 800 Florida Avenue NE, Denison House, Washington, DC 20002-3695. Tel: 202-651-5488; Fax: 202-651-5489; Web site: http://gupress.gallaudet.edu/annals/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers: N/A

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