Common Myths About Deaf People

1. Myth: All Deaf people can read lips.
   Truth: Lip-reading is difficult and only provides about 30-40% of the spoken message, even for skilled readers.
2. Myth: Deaf people can’t speak.
   Truth: Many Deaf people can speak; some choose not to, while others may use speech along with sign language.
3. Myth: Sign Language is universal.
   Truth: There are hundreds of different sign languages worldwide (e.g., ASL, BSL, LSF), each with its own grammar and vocabulary.
4. Myth: Deaf people are less intelligent.
   Truth: Intelligence is not related to hearing ability. This myth stems from communication barriers, not cognitive ability.
5. Myth: Deaf people don’t drive.
   Truth: Deaf people can and do drive safely. In fact, studies show they are often more visually alert drivers.
6. Myth: Hearing aids or cochlear implants restore normal hearing.
   Truth: These devices can help some individuals hear better but do not “cure” Deafness.
7. Myth: All Deaf people want to be cured.
   Truth: Many Deaf individuals are proud of their identity and do not view Deafness as something that needs to be fixed.
8. Myth: Deaf people can’t enjoy music.
   Truth: Many Deaf individuals enjoy music through vibrations, visual cues, or feeling rhythms.
9. Myth: Deaf people can’t have normal jobs.
   Truth: Deaf people work in all fields—from education to engineering, law, medicine, arts, and more.
10. Myth: Deaf people are also mute.
    Truth: “Deaf and mute” is an outdated and offensive stereotype. Deafness doesn’t equate to an inability to speak.
11. Myth: Deaf people only date other Deaf people.
    Truth: Deaf individuals form relationships with both Deaf and hearing people.
12. Myth: Deaf children are always born to Deaf parents.
    Truth: Over 90% of Deaf children are born to hearing parents.
13. Myth: Interpreters are always needed when communicating with Deaf people.
    Truth: While interpreters are helpful, many Deaf people communicate through texting, writing, or technology like VRS.
14. Myth: Deaf people can’t learn to read or write well.
    Truth: Deaf individuals can be highly literate; access to early language and quality education is key.
15. Myth: Shouting will help a Deaf person understand you.
    Truth: Shouting doesn’t help and can be seen as disrespectful. Clear speech, gestures, or writing is more effective.
16. Myth: Deaf people are good at reading body language because they can’t hear.
    Truth: While many Deaf people are visually attuned, the skill varies from person to person.
17. Myth: ASL is just English on the hands.
    Truth: ASL is a distinct language with its own grammar, structure, and idioms—not a signed version of English.
18. Myth: Deaf people can’t enjoy movies or theater.
    Truth: With captions, interpreters, or Deaf actors, many Deaf individuals enjoy and participate in the arts.
19. Myth: Deaf people live in isolation.
    Truth: There is a strong, vibrant Deaf community with its own culture, events, and social networks.
20. Myth: Deafness is always hereditary.
    Truth: Deafness can result from genetics, illness, injury, or unknown causes—and is not always passed down.