Challenges and Perspectives in the Social Inclusion of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individual.

Introduction: Hearing impairment: a condition in which there is difficulty or impediment for the person to hear sounds. The emotional impact of deafness is significant and multifaceted, influenced by communicative barriers in social, school, and work contexts, which often lead to isolation and emotional distress. The lack of interpreters and the low training of professionals in SL compromise health care and the inclusion of deaf/hard of hearing people (D/HH). Objective: To verify the difficulties that the D/HH face in their social inclusion. Method: Structured questionnaire with the objective of addressing the themes to be explored and the questions of interest applied to D/HH) in Brazil. Results: 72 responses. Conclusion: The research showed the barriers faced by D/HH in their social inclusion, covering family, academic and professional contexts They still face significant challenges: lack of effective communication generating feelings of isolation and exclusion, impairment of the educational experience, in the work environments, difficulties to perform tasks and interact with colleagues. It is imperative that government agencies and educational institutions develop policies and practices that aim not only at the formal inclusion, but also at the true social and emotional integration of D/HI. It is necessary to sensitize society about the need to promote an inclusive environment, where D/HI can feel an active part and valued. Social inclusion is not only a matter of rights, but also a matter of dignity and respect for human diversity.

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