Adult deaf sign language users and audiology services: a scoping review on cultural competence practices
Year: 2026
Type: dataset
Abstract: To examine literature on cultural competence in audiology services for Deaf adult sign language users, identifying themes, evidence gaps, and systemic barriers to inclusive care. Scoping review following JBI methodology and PRISM-ScR guidance, with a narrative synthesis and a light-touch quality assessment. Comprehensive searches in CINAHL, EMBASE, Project MUSE, PsycINFO, PubMed, and SSCI, supplemented by hand-searching and grey literature, identified 575 sources, of which 13 met inclusion criteria. Four themes were identified: (1) The gap between intent and practice in sign language use (2) Interpreter access: inconsistency and over-reliance; (3) Recognising Deaf signers as a cultural-linguistic minority and (4) Barriers to fostering a culturally competent environment. This review synthesises evidence on culturally competent audiology care for Deaf signers. Findings highlight systemic exclusion of Deaf individuals as a cultural-linguistic minority and over-reliance on interpreters, which may create superficial access without broader cultural understanding. There is a critical need for whole-service research to inform more inclusive audiology practice.
Source: Figshare
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7160868377