Deafness and parenthood: a Case of Five Families in Addis Ababa
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Date
2003-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The deaf are commonly labeled with disparaging and superstitious qualities that push them
outside human communication and social life, and deny them access to education, work and
other equal opportunities that would make them self supportive and full members of their
respective environment.
The environment includes significant others in the deaf child's world, beginning with his/her
immediate family, extending to peers, teachers and members of the various communities that
impinge on his/her life. However, the focus of this study is the home environment, where the
foundation for the deaf child's social, educational, etc development lies.
To study life in a family of deaf child is the main aim of this research. Based on the
information obtained from five deaf children and their parents selected purposefully (the
parents being the main informants), this study on deafness and parent hood of a deaf child was
conducted.
For exploring the life of deaf children and their parents in a natural context (the home), a case
study qualitative design was used. The main methods for data gathering were observation and
interview supplemented by , focus-group-discussion and informal talks.
The finding of the study showed that parents have misconceptions and wrong beliefs about
the nature and causes of deafness as well as the potentialities of their deaf child. They also
had communication problems as a result limited interaction with their deaf child. All of them
were not able to make arrangements for their deaf child's social and educational development
except providing them with pens and exercise books. Their lack of early intervention services
like training in SL, counseling and teaching their deaf child, etc had challenged them to have
a good life in t he home environment. As a result of wrong beliefs and misconceptions about
the nature and causes of deafness parents felt various feelings which, in turn brought about
reciprocal feelings on the deaf child.
The above findings are discussed and recommendations were made to promote holistic
development of the deaf child through provision of early intervention to the family with a deaf
child
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Addis Ababaa Case of Five Families