Children and Adolescents with Hearing Loss can Experience Friendship and Loneliness

Studies in Children Who use Hearing Aids

In a study on children with hearing loss, there have been significant improvements in speech production, speech perception and language skills for those who have consistent listening experiences and properly fit hearing aids. The study showed the communication abilities of children who had hearing loss was far behind those who had healthy hearing. 

Adolescents who have hearing loss encounter difficulties while in a social environment. There have been instances of practical shortcomings, and more peer related issues than same-age peers who have healthy hearing. 

In the past, children and adolescents with hearing loss have not been easily accepted by their peers and faced higher rates of bullying, social isolation, and loneliness compared to those with normal hearing abilities. They have also been less likely to make friends and keep them, compared to their hearing peers. These unsuccessful interactions with peers have a short-term and long-term effect on their mental health and social life. 

Some studies concluded that children and adolescents who are socially isolated and lonely, are those who may or may not use a hearing aid. Many of these studies were based on older generations of children who had hearing loss, not modern groups of children who were able to have their hearing loss identified at an early age and whose parents sought intervention. 

Communication Improvements in Children who use Hearing Aids

Early hearing loss detection and treatment offered hope for better communication in children with hearing loss. This included better speech production, speech perception, speech intelligibility, and language acquisition. These skills of developed communication - especially speech intelligibility and language acquisition - guide the foundation of social relationships with peers, particularly those with normal hearing.  

Social interactions with peers determines the psychological well-being and quality of life across one’s lifespan. 
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If you have a child, or grandchild, who is experiencing hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound for a consultation.

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