Issues Involving Children of Deaf & HoH Adults
CODA stands for Child of Deaf Adult/s. This term was first used in the USA, and now is commonly used in Australia and many other countries. In the UK, they usually use the term MFD (Mother Father Deaf) or HMFD (Hearing (child) Mother Father Deaf).
A CODA can be either Deaf or hearing but their parents are Deaf, and can refer to both a children and adults. When we speak of a grown person as CODA we mean they are the offspring of Deaf parents, not literally as a child themselves. However specific groups have emerged in the USA identifying as KODA (Kids of Deaf Adults – literally children) and YODA (Youth of Deaf Adults).
CODAs are usually brought up culturally and linguistically Deaf. They are exposed to the Deaf culture from birth and often sign before they learn to speak.
As with Deaf people who experience unique social issues, the CODA too, have unique issues and challenges. CODAs often grow up with feelings of embarrasment and shame when they realise their parents are 'different' from other parents. They notice other people looking at their family when they sign or when their parents speak. Hearing CODAs often overhear tactless comments made by other people in reference to their Deaf parents and often feel insulted, hurt and angry. Some CODAs have trouble learning the English language and when they go to school are often bewildered and confused why they are having so much trouble with writing and speaking English, unlike their non-CODA classmates.
Another issue CODAs have often faced as children, is adopting an adult like role, especially in situations where they are needed to do face-to-face or phone interpreting for their Deaf parents. This happens more in country and rural areas, and less developed nations where there are limited resources and technology available. Another issue is when the CODA's parents may not have had a good education and lack the necessary social and parenting skills to provide for and nurture their children to realise their maximum potential. Many CODA groups and camps have been set up to provide peer support and friendship with other CODAs who understand each other.
