What did the Covid-19 pandemic reveal to deaf young people about their lives as young adults?

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic changed the structures of communication, interaction and daily life for everyone. In this study, we examine what those changed social circumstances revealed to deaf young people about their identity, opportunities, strengths and vulnerabilities. Forty-six deaf young people aged 16–19 during the pandemic were interviewed by either deaf co-inquirers or academic researchers with a strong background in working with deaf people. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings demonstrate that the mental health challenges of the times were not new to many participants but rather just more of the familiar experiences of limited contact with others. However, the circumstances spotlighted attributes deaf people had which had been hidden previously to others including resilience, digital skills and creativity. Improved educational access through digital media was positive eventually but required some self-advocacy to achieve parity.