The role of adaptability and communication in fostering cohesion in families with deaf adolescents.
The families of 325 adolescents enrolled in local public high schools throughout the United States were surveyed to assess the relationship between the communication modes used by families and family cohesion. Cohesion is defined here as the degree of emotional bonding among family members. In a path analysis, family cohesion was predicted by the mother's use of sign language. In turn, the child's degree of hearing loss and the child's mode of communication predicted the mother's use of sign language. Based on the use of the FACES (family adaptability and cohesion evaluation) inventory and a parent communication questionnaire, the authors conclude that mothers who sign tend to be more family oriented.
Kluwin
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TN
Gallaudet Research Institute of the Center for Studies in Education and Human Development, Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C.
Gaustad
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MG
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D003142:Communication; D003638:Deafness; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008425:Maternal Behavior; D012813:Sign Language; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires