Work

Dyadic synchrony in deaf mothers and hearing infants

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: There is mounting evidence that maternal sensitivity contributes to optimal child development, but little is known about dyads including deaf mothers and their hearing infants. Deaf adults experience a range of adversities in their role as a parent, and it is unclear how these experiences influence early interactions with their child. Videos of 28 deaf mothers playing with their four-to-eight-month-old hearing infants were coded using the CARE-Index. Dyadic synchrony of most dyads were found to be sensitive or adequate. However, 21% of dyads were likely to benefit from education and/or intervention to increase sensitive interactions. Compared to the rest of the dyads, they displayed lower levels of maternal sensitivity and infant cooperativeness, as well as higher levels of maternal unresponsiveness and infant passivity. Results were influenced by socioeconomic status and potentially by vocal and social touch behaviour. Methodological, theoretical and clinical considerations are offered for professionals working with deaf mothers and their hearing infants.

Source: The Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education

DOI: 10.1093/jdsade/enag005

Authors: Harriet Bowden-Howl, Rudi Dallos, Laura Goldberg, Evelyne Mercure

Institutions: University of Plymouth, University College London, Goldsmiths University of London

Language: English

Topic: Hearing Impairment and Communication

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,363