Exploring Language Deprivation in Deaf Adults
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring Language Deprivation in Deaf Adults
IRAS ID
348239
Contact name
Zahra Nawab
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2025/05/50 social research , Data Protection
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 10 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research explores the impact of language deprivation in deaf adults, with the goal of improving identification and support for individuals who had limited language exposure during childhood.
The critical period of language acquisition is usually between the ages of 0 and 5 years where it is crucial to have good quality language input. If children lack opportunities to learn language, it is likely that they might not be fluent in their language skills. Often, deaf children do not receive full access to language during the critical period. This is known as language deprivation where there appears to be long-term impacts on language, cognitive, social and emotional development.
To conduct the study, 40 deaf adults will be recruited and divided into two groups. The first group will consist of individuals with suspected language deprivation, while the second group will include those with strong language skills who will serve as a control group. Participants will be recruited from NHS Deaf Mental Health Services, adult education colleges, and deaf advocacy organizations. The study involves a combination of language, cognitive and socio-emotional assessments, and an exploratory case studies to assess language abilities, cognitive function, and social-emotional skills.
The expected benefits of this study include the development of better identification tools, such as a standardized assessment battery, to help professionals detect language deprivation in deaf adults. The research also aims to improve support and interventions by providing insights into the cognitive and social effects of language deprivation
This study is for a PhD researcher (Zahra Nawab) at University College London (UCL) and is expected to run for three years.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/YH/0250
Date of REC Opinion
19 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion