The World of Deaf Infants

About “The World of Deaf Infants”

The World of Deaf Infants presents the findings of a 15-year research study comparing deaf and hearing infants. The study followed 80 families, including all combinations of parent and infant hearing status. Data were collected at 9, 12, 15, and 18 months, with observations of mother-infant interactions in both structured and unstructured settings. Researchers examined mothers' facial, vocal, and tactile behaviors, linking them to infants' temperament and stress. They also studied linguistic and communication behaviors, as well as mothers' responsiveness, and evaluated the impact of support provided to mothers. The study found significant results, particularly regarding infant attachment and the role of visual attention in the development of deaf infants. The book offers a foundation for further research and support for deaf infants and their families.