This unique sourcebook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of deafness and the development of deaf individuals from birth through adulthood. Not only does the book focus on educational perspectives, psychosocial precepts, communication modes, vocational opportunities, support services, and recent technological advances, it provides the reader with insights into one of the fastest growing populations today - the deafened adult. Orientation to Deafness provides insights into the psychosocial development of deaf children of deaf parents, as well as deaf children of hearing parents. Throughout the chapters, myths surrounding deafness are dispelled and the salient characteristics of Deaf culture that lie at the heart of the Deaf community are examined. Special attention is given to the anatomy and physiology of the hearing mechanism, and recent advances in hearing aids, modern technology, and an annotated list of support services are provided. For those involved with or interested in Deafness.
