Prevalence of Hearing Screening for Newborns and Present Condition of Early Intervention Systems at Schools for the Deaf: Early Intervention Staff

Abstract

As a result of an increase in the prevalence of hearing screening of newborns, detection of hearing loss in infants has progressed, with the consequence that the number of consultations at schools for children who are deaf (special needs schools) and the number of children reported at an early age as having hearing disabilities have increased. The aim of the present study was to discover the current status of early intervention programs at schools for children who are deaf. Staff at schools throughout Japan for children who are deaf were sent questionnaires, of which 98% were returned. Analysis of the questionnaires revealed the following: (a) Schools all over Japan for children who are deaf have early intervention programs, (b) Staff indicated that parents' support seemed to be the most significant factor determining the content of intervention programs, (c) Participation in early intervention programs by other specialists and adults who are deaf has been facilitated, (d) Staff generally identified early detection as the best method for evaluating children's development, (e) Staff reported intending to utilize a variety of communication means, including sign language, spoken language, and children's remaining hearing ability, when intervening, (f) Reported problems included the need for additional specialists and well-trained staff, staffs lack of teaching experience, lack of training programs, shortage of facilities at the institutions, and poor relations with other social institutions and services. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)