Misconceptions
Many hearing people already have an idea in their head of what deaf people are like. They know what deaf people look like, sound like, and how they function. You’re far less likely to come off as ignorant if you keep the following in mind:
- Deaf ≠ Stupid.
- This is the most important thing to remember! The assumption is that just because someone cannot hear, their understanding of the world around them is somehow lessened. This is not the case. Anyone, hearing or deaf, can have cognitive disabilities. Just as you wouldn’t assume a cognitive disability for the hearing, don’t assume it for the deaf.
- Deaf ≠ Broken.
- Deaf people have the same abilities and disabilities as hearing people except the ability to hear. This doesn’t mean they are unable to function. Deaf people are able to laugh, cry, think, enjoy movies, and answer the phone just like everyone else. Just because they don’t/can’t hear, doesn’t mean they need to be fixed.
- Not all deaf people voice.
- The ability and desire to communicate verbally differs on an individual basis. It all depends how the individual was raised and whether or not they were ever encouraged/discouraged to use their voice.
- Not all deaf/HoH people sign.
- The ability and desire to sign is also different from person to person. It all depends how the individual was raised and whether or not they were ever encouraged/discouraged to sign.
- Hearing aids won’t necessarily solve everything.
- Don’t assume that someone with a hearing aid will automatically hear and understand every word that comes out of your mouth. Background noise and speaking too loudly can cause distortion. This can ultimately cause more problems than you started with. Additionally, not all hearing aids are created equal.
- Having to repeat something is NOT the end of the world.
- When repeating, do not dumb it down, over-enunciate, or resort to “nevermind.” Many times, only a few words were missed. Restructuring the original statement can often compound the problem and result in having to repeat yourself a third or fourth time.
- Knowing how to sign doesn’t give you permission to interrupt.
- This is a common question among hearing people, especially ASL students. If you see a group signing to each other, it is generally not okay to run over and interrupt with “I can sign, too!!” Additionally, try not to stare and decipher a conversation; it’s rude and you never know if it’s private. Some people will not mind the intrusion, but you definitely don’t want to assume it’s okay.
- When in mixed company, don’t assume your deaf compatriots will/won’t follow along.
- It’s rude to get into side conversations and purposely leave the deaf person out while assuming they aren’t paying attention. Be inclusive. If you’re with someone who lipreads, make sure they can keep a visual on your mouth.
- You don’t necessarily need an interpreter every time you encounter a deaf person.
- When realizing someone is deaf, don’t run away assuming it’s impossible to communicate with them. You probably aren’t the first hearing person they’ve ever met. Make an effort and give them a chance.
