Caught between two worlds : help-seeking in the deaf community and hearing mothers’ bonding with deaf children

The following thesis is comprised of three chapters. Chapter one is a systematic literature review and thematic-synthesis of qualitative studies which aimed to explore the psychosocial barriers to help-seeking for mental health in the deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) community. A total of 14 studies were included in the review. Using thematic-synthesis five key analytic themes were derived from the studies. These consisted of: It’s a small world, marginalization, social stigma, self-stigma, and hopelessness & helplessness. Findings expand on the theory of stigma and demonstrate the psychosocial barriers faced by those in DHH community who also struggle with mental health difficulties. Clinical applications of these results are discussed as well as potential future research directions. Chapter two is an empirical study investigating the experiences of hearing mothers bonding with a DHH child. Eleven mothers participated in one-to-one semi-structured interviews. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and the following key themes were identified: An emotional rollercoaster, the unbridgeable gap, amplified parenting, positive growth and adaptive parenting. Results touch upon maternal identity and links to attachment theory as well as family change theory are made. Clinical applications and suggestions for further research are discussed. Chapter three is a reflective paper of the author’s experience during the research process. This chapter draws upon concepts from narrative therapy and uses imagery to create a story of the researcher’s experience while conducting the empirical study. This chapter reflects upon challenges during the research process, internal resources and coping mechanisms, and a re-telling of the research journey in compassionate and strengths-based way.