Communication Abuse and Deaf people

Struck by a Norwegian professional's use of the description "bordering on child abuse" to describe denying children access to electronic media, Sharon Duchesneau asks why the term "child abuse" is not widely used when referring to communication injustices that many Deaf children face. Something is wrong with the picture when the seriousness of these situations is downplayed.

To cite:

Duchesneau, S. (2007, August 31). Communication Abuse and Deaf People. ASC on the Couch. Retrieved August 31, 2007, from http://www.ascdeaf.com/blog/?p=318

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[kellmcster]

I have to disagree with the point that this rises to the level of child abuse. I believe that focusing on this issue is not beneficial to the plight of communication deficits of Deaf children. Sure Deaf children should be exposed to the technology that can enhance communication etc. However, what is child abuse when it relates to Deaf children is when parents are not signing/communicating with the child. Research states that successful language development hinges on parent child interaction

[ASCDEAF]

@kellmcsterI am afraid you may have misunderstood the video. The point of the video is that in Europe, not allowing children (meaning HEARING children) access to the internet and other technology has been described as bordering on child abuse. The reason for this is because access to technology is considered important for social development and also important for development of skills to use in the workplace in the future. Using the words "child abuse" here is a strong statement.

[ASCDEAF]

@kellmcsterHere in America, we do not call it child abuse when Deaf children are denied access to sign language, flashing light systems, accessible education, technology, etc. This is ironic. If Europeans can use "child abuse" to describe denying access to the internet/technology for hearing children, we should be able to call it child abuse when Deaf children are not given access to language and other communication situations.

[1931Pair8]

I agree. It should be labeled "child abuse."

And what about hearing parents who never talk to their deaf child? Parents who never try to learn how to communicate, even though there are many options and resources. In my opinion, that's also "child abuse."

[DeafLuna]

I agree with you 100 percent that we should call it abuse, period! They always are afraid to call it abuse. Hearing parents are abusive for not using ASL with their children. People in USA always prefer to talk about the freedom of choices.  It is unfair that deaf children are without language or technology while people in USA discuss choices all the time. It is bad enough that deaf children don't have access to ASL. They don't have videophones at home. They have to depend on parents.

[kellmcster]

ASC...I did not misunderstand the video. Your second post confirms what I was replying to. Not allowing communication devices to Deaf children should never creep into the discussion of child abuse unless it is the only way by which a Deaf child can communicate. Those communication devices while becoming more integral into social structures are not necessary for existence. However, communicating with language is essential. My point is...that your focus is in the wrong place.

[DeafSweetMind]

Thank you! ;) You said it all.

[John04mans]

Very interesting!! You turn my halogen light on!! Wow... European describes this word. America would not recognize the describing of word. How is sad? America Psychology/Psychiatric Association may feel a threat from opening of worm can? IE: Many Deaf people send to the mental institution between 1900's and 1950's? If America is willing to use this word, they would have a finger pointing to AGB, who may be number one in the black list in the world.

[queenMauritus]

Good point, the problem is just, americans are afraid put theirself in a bad position.

[abeismain]

lol i like this kind of language, i don't know what's going on but it's fun to watch XD