SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS AMONG STUDENTS WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT: A THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE

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Author Name :- Deepika Dwivedi,Dr. Satyanarain Nai,

Journal type:- NJRIP-National Journal of Research and Innovative Practices

Research Field Area :- Department of Education ; Volume 10, Issue 7, No. of Pages: 15

Your Research Paper Id :- 2025010715

Download Published File :- Click here

Abstraction :-

Social isolation and loneliness are critical but often overlooked challenges faced by students with hearing impairment, particularly in inclusive educational settings. Hearing loss not only limits auditory access but also impedes spontaneous peer interactions, leading to reduced social participation and feelings of exclusion (Bat-Chava, 2000; Punch and Hyde, 2011). These students often struggle to form friendships, participate in classroom discussions, or engage in co-curricular activities, and this contributes to psychological distress, diminished academic motivation, and poor self-concept (Knoors and Marschark, 2014). This theoretical paper explores the underlying causes and psychosocial consequences of social isolation among hearing-impaired students through the lens of social identity theory and Vygotsky’s socio-cultural theory. It also discusses systemic barriers in inclusive schooling, including communication mismatches, inadequate teacher training, and lack of peer sensitization. By examining the intersection of disability, communication, and social belonging, this paper underscores the urgent need for inclusive pedagogical strategies and policy interventions to enhance social integration for students with hearing impairment. The article concludes with actionable recommendations for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers.

Keywords :-

Hearing impairment, social isolation, loneliness, inclusive education, peer interaction, deaf students, psychological well-being, communication barriers, social integration, special education

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