The deaf community has its own history and culture, along with traditions that make them an important part of every community. Those who are deaf have a different way of speaking, understanding and sharing; not just because they are deaf.
1. A Unversial Language?
Most of us would believe that American Sign Language is universal, worldwide. This is not true. Most countries other than the United States and Canada have their own forms of sign language. It is well known that American Sign Language users can more easily communicate with those using the French form of sign language, compared to the British Sign Language.
2. Does Being Deaf Make You Disable?
People who are deaf do not consider themselves to have a disability. They consider themselves to be members of a linguistic community. When a child is born deaf, they are in general part of a family with two hearing parents. The deaf culture is usually passed down from one generation to the next, but that does not always happen. It is not just the deaf person that is part of their community, the whole family, siblings and parents are involved. Only minimal amounts learn the deaf culture while at home. Most often, the culture is learned at schools, community events that are a part of this deaf community.
3. What Sign Language Really Is
American Sign Language is a visual form of communication. While many people will watch the hands of the person using sign language, you will find that members of the community watch the signer’s face. This is due in fact to the reasoning that a person’s expression is just as important in communicating.
Deaf people are usually better drivers than are those who can hear. This sounds impossible, however, when you consider that vision is a heavily relied upon sense for those who are deaf, than it makes sense. Deaf drivers are very attentive visually when driving; they focus on vehicles all around them, not just the one in front. They see the possible traffic issues before they arise since they are more focused. This is unlike hearing individuals who can become distracted with a radio station and changing it.
4. How Do the Deaf Communicate
There are many topics that too many people seem to be rude to discuss with other people; however the deaf are more direct when communicating. This is due in the most part because not being direct can send mixed messages and a lack of understanding. It would not be a clear message to a deaf individual if the statement is padded with fluff, in the intention of not being rude. For many, not making direct comments is considered to be ruder than coming out and saying, “Oh, you gained weight! What happened?”
With all the countries in the world, and the many forms of languages, sign language is the fourth most popular language there is. There are hundreds of Sign language dialects around the world today.