Language Deprivation in Deaf Children

Publication Date

4-20-2026

Authors

• Kaleb Holske, University of New Hampshire, Durham

Abstract

Kaleb is an American Sign Language English Interpreter with a double major in Linguistics, from Chester, NH. He’s also a professional balloon twister!

This piece examines how language deprivation affects deaf children when they don’t necessarily receive early access to natural language, especially during the most critical developmental years. It further explains how the medical model of deafness, reliance on cochlear implants or hearing aids, schooling, and limited sign language access can negatively impact the emotional, social, and academic growth of these children. This piece argues that early access to sign language and deaf centered support is essential for preventing language deprivation and helping deaf children fully develop.

Recommended Citation

Holske, Kaleb (2026) "Language Deprivation in Deaf Children," Comm-entary: Vol. 22: Iss. 1, Article 8.
Available at: https://scholars.unh.edu/comm-entary/vol22/iss1/8