SUPERSTAR: systems that support hearing parents with deaf children

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    SUPERSTAR: systems that support hearing parents with deaf children

  • IRAS ID

    296972

  • Contact name

    Julia Terry

  • Contact email

    j.terry@swansea.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Swansea University

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 11 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    More than 90% of d/Deaf children are born to hearing families, with little knowledge about deafness. Deaf children often have limited language, with minimal language support for their families, meaning d/Deaf children lack ability to understand feelings and emotions, with fewer coping strategies when mental-health problems occur. 40% d/Deaf people experience a mental-health problem (like anxiety or depression) at any time, compared to 25% of the general population. Engaging early with the right support may prevent mental health problems occurring later.

    The aim of this project is to find out what helps hearing families with d/Deaf children support their child’s language development. Knowing the right help will increase support for families with d/Deaf children. This project idea came from discussions with d/Deaf people, Deaf charities, and hearing parents of d/Deaf children.

    First, there will be a comprehensive search for evidence using multiple electronic databases covering health, care, and education. The quality of this information will be considered using
    checklists and computer programs to organize material, map information, and produce a report.

    Second, experiences and support will be discussed with hearing parents of d/Deaf children, and workers in education, health, and care organizations. This multiple perspective approach means listening to people’s views about a subject, the challenges, and barriers, and what would work to improve support.

    Third, a preliminary framework for supporting families of d/Deaf children will be created; and findings shared with d/Deaf people, families, services, and government; to improve support to d/Deaf children/families in the future.

  • REC name

    N/A

  • REC reference

    N/A