Exploring Language Influences on the Social and Emotional Development of Deaf Young Adults

Abstract

This multiple case study explores the influence of language acquisition and communication modalities on the socio-emotional development of Deaf young adults in Kerala, India. Given the global discourse on language deprivation, this research investigates how varied communicative backgrounds shape identity formation, social integration, and psychological well-being. Employing a qualitative multiple case study design, data were collected from nine Deaf young adults (aged 22–50) through semi-structured interviews. The analysis followed a systematic approach of within-case profiling and cross-case synthesis, adhering to reflexive thematic analysis principles to preserve the integrity of individual lived experiences. Findings indicate that early linguistic accessibility is the primary determinant of socio-emotional stability. Participants categorised their experiences into three distinct themes: the inadequacy of non-verbal “ad-hoc” communication in hearing-dominant spaces, the development of bicultural resilience through Deaf identity, and the critical role of Deaf Associations as “lifeline” support systems. The study reveals that for Deaf young adults, the Deaf community serves as the primary protective framework for mental health, often compensating for systemic gaps in educational and clinical services. The findings suggest that the transition into adulthood for Deaf individuals in Kerala is heavily mediated by the quality of their linguistic environment. Policy recommendations include a paradigm shift from oralist-centric educational models to bilingual-bicultural approaches and the provision of linguistically accessible mental health services. This study advocates for viewing Deafness not as a medical deficiency but as a culturally and linguistically distinct identity requiring targeted socio-political support.