New Zealand deaf adults’ perspectives on speech-language therapy for deaf children

Bibliographic Data

ID22965403
AuthorsJayne Newbury (0000-0003-1731-9504, University of Canterbury, corresponding author), Rosie Lamb (University of Canterbury), Toby Macrae (0000-0003-3876-0323, University of Canterbury)
Year2026
Publication date2026-04-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueThe Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1081-4159 • E-ISSN: 1465-7325
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/jdsade/enag011
PMID41979017
OpenAlexW7154208521
LanguageEN
References cited40

Speech-language therapy (SLT) within deaf education in Aotearoa New Zealand remains influenced by oralist traditions. Māori deaf individuals also face barriers to their culture and native language. This qualitative study explored deaf adults’ experiences and perceptions of SLT, including how SLTs should best support deaf children. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 11 deaf adults (aged 28–65) who had engaged with SLT. Data were generated in New Zealand Sign Language or English and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Ensuring deaf children thrive and flourish was the overarching theme, with three subthemes (1) Hearing differences create a unique experience (2) Consider the child’s unique ecosystem and (3) The profession’s responsibilities. Participants wanted culturally affirming collaborative SLT practice, including signed and spoken languages. They prioritised early language access, communication success, strong therapeutic relationships and diversifying the workforce to ensure deaf children flourish.

Aotearoa · Deaf culture · Deaf education · Focus group · Perception · Qualitative research · Sign language · Thematic analysis · Workforce · Hearing Impairment and Communication · Interpreting and Communication in Healthcare · Occupational Therapy Practice and Research

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