title: [Professional deafness : a discreet sensory handicap.].
abstract: Noise induced hearing loss is the kind of partial deafness that affects the largest number of individuals ; it is also the most frequently identified occupational health problem. The specific nature of this hearing impairment is such that the hearing behavior appears inconsistent and unpredictable to normal hearing individuals. The handicap is therefore frequently perceived by the family and the peers of the hearing impaired person as an unwillingness to communicate. This in turn is responsible for many communication difficulties and affects the individual's psychosocial stability. No universal remedy to this conflictual situation is available at the present time. Self-help groups are explored as the approach that is more likely to offer realistic solutions.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Hétu