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Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this scoping review was to provide information about the research base related to psychosocial experiences of parents of young children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) and use hearing devices. A scoping review identifies trends and gaps in available evidence and this information can be used to inform practice and identify areas in need of further research.

Design: A scoping review was conducted in June 2020 to identify English-language peer-reviewed journal articles published through May 31, 2020.

Study sample: Nine articles were found that investigated psychosocial factors of parents of children birth through five years who are DHH and use a hearing device.

Results: Four psychosocial areas were explored in the identified studies: stress (n=5), self-efficacy (n = 2), depression (n = 1), and one explored both depression and psychological flexibility. None of the studies investigated an intervention to address parent psychosocial factors interfering with treatment adherence.

Conclusions: There is a scarcity of research related to psychosocial barriers parents of young children who use hearing devices experience. Research is needed to identify effective interventions and to demonstrate the effect of addressing parent psychosocial barriers on spoken language outcomes for children. Providers have opportunities to use validated screening tools to assess for parent barriers and to individualize support for parents within the care plan for children identified with hearing loss.

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