Why Do Hearing People Turn Their Heads Toward Deaf People’s Ears?
When a hearing person communicates with a deaf person, they often turn their heads toward the deaf person’s ear. However, this tendency to turn their heads doesn't always align with what deaf individuals experience. As a deaf individual, my observation is that most hearing people do not turn their heads in this manner. This raises the question: why do some hearing individuals seem to position themselves in this way?
Understanding the Ear Turn Behavior
When a hearing person communicates with a deaf person, they might turn their heads towards the deaf individual's ear because they think that is where sound enters. However, this behavior arises more from a lack of understanding about the hearing process in deaf communities and the use of various communication methods.
Deaf Communication Methods
Deaf individuals often use sign language or rely on visual cues for communication. Unlike hearing people, who primarily use their ears to hear, deaf people and those who use hearing aids primarily communicate through visual means. For hearing individuals, turning the head toward the ear can be an unconscious gesture based on their own experience with hearing aids or residual hearing.
Common Communication Scenarios
In many scenarios, hearing people may not realize that turning their heads toward the ear is unnecessary for effective communication. Here are some common situations:
In-person conversations: Deaf people do not need the person to turn their heads. The most effective way for hearing people to communicate is to face the deaf individual directly and use clear facial expressions and hand gestures.
Video calls: Sign language can be efficiently used in video calls. Ensuring that the deaf individual is always on the same side of the screen and maintaining a clear, well-lit environment is crucial.
Public events: Public events with deaf attendees should include accessible accommodations such as sign language interpreters and clear sign positions for deaf community members.
Improving Communication Efforts
To enhance communication, it is essential for hearing individuals to adopt more inclusive practices. Here are some tips:
Focus on Clear Facial Expressions: Engage in dialogue with a neutral expression to convey emotions and clarify messages effectively.
Use Visual Aids: Utilize visual aids such as charts, diagrams, or written notes to enhance understanding.
Face the Deaf Individual: Always face the deaf person directly to ensure they can see your mouth movements and facial expressions.
Promote Sign Language: Encourage the use of sign language by providing resources and interpreters when necessary.
Conclusion
As a deaf person, my experience has shown that most hearing individuals do not turn their heads toward deaf individuals’ ears. Effective communication is achieved by facing the deaf person directly, utilizing clear visual cues, and being aware of the unique methods of communication used by deaf individuals.