Amplified Identity: The Influence of Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants on the Self-Concepts of Students with Hearing Impairment in Public and Private Schools

Abstract

The issue of self-concept in students with hearing impairments is a key element in educational research which reports the great impact of hearing loss on communication, social interaction and overall wellbeing. This study looks at the self-concepts of students with hearing impairments that use hearing aids and cochlear implants. We determine what factors influence it and also compare the self-concept between students in public and private educational settings. We used a quantitative research design which included a very precise and expert validated questionnaire which presents results via a 5 point Likert scale. The instrument we used had high reliability with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.997. We collected data by purposive sampling of students aged 11 to 18 with diagnosed hearing loss from schools in Lahore City. We analyzed the data using descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS which included t-test for comparison. We found out that most respondents reported feeling at ease in social settings while using their hearing devices which they also report to be a factor in the development and maintenance of relationships. We report that use of auditory devices does in fact improve social comfort and relational experience of these students. Based on our results we put forth recommendations to reduce the factors which negatively play into the self-concept of students with hearing impairments.