Deaf Culture Etiquette

Do’s & Don’ts when communicating with a person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing

Do’s:

• Look directly at the person
• Watch for understanding through facial expressions and head nods
• If the person does not understand a particular word, find a different word that means the same thing
• Repeat a phrase or idea when necessary
• If conversation is lacking understanding, use a pencil and paper or use a text device to help with communication
• Do talk in a normal manner

Don’ts:

• Do not break eye contact during the conversation
• Do not exaggerate mouth movements
• Do not yell at the deaf or hard-of-hearing person
• Do not refer to the person as “he” or “she”
• Do not pretend to understand if you do not
• Do not eat while you are talking to a person with a hearing loss
• Do not mumble or cover your mouth with your hands

For people who are interested in learning American Sign Language, there are lessons online at http://www.ASLdeafined.com