Deaf people in Gozo : perceptions about their life experiences and quality of life

Abstract

Although Malta and Gozo are separated by just five kilometres of water and share many characteristics, culture and lifestyle differ. Likewise, the life experiences of d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals living in Gozo may differ from the ones that Maltese d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals may have. Experiences of Gozitan d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals are undocumented, and the aim of this study is to find out the views on and awareness about the life experiences and quality of life of Gozitan d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The participants provide insight into the issues that arise not just from living in a world which is constructed for the hearing, but also from being a d/Deaf or hard of hearing individual living in Gozo. A qualitative research approach was adopted and the research questions are answered by applying themes that were identified when analysing the data. These themes relate to the social model of disability as well as symbolic interaction theory, which comprised the conceptual framework. Of utmost importance was the theme regarding language acquisition, as this was relevant to all the other themes of this study. Other themes that emerged include accessibility and barriers, Deaf culture, as well as identity development. General findings show that language acquisition is crucial as it impacts most of the participants’ life experiences, especially those with a profound level of deafness. Different types of accessibility and attitudes, lack of awareness, the participants’ self-esteem, the type of support that they receive from their families, as well as the type of relationship they have with other people from different contexts also influence their experiences and quality of life. Finally, the study reflects the lack of awareness that Gozitan d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals themselves have about Deaf culture, and concludes that Gozitan d/Deaf and hard of hearing people would benefit if they were encouraged and supported to become involved in the running of Gozo’s organisation for d/Deaf and hard of hearing people. The study also concludes that forming a Deaf community with a shared language would instill a sense of belonging, which is of paramount importance for d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals.