Hearing partners of Deaf people often encounter a range of challenges that they never expected when first embarking on the relationship. They may encounter hostility from other Deaf people who have a negative opinion of "mixed" relationships (hearing & Deaf). They may be unprepared for the differences in perceptions of the world around; for the amount of discrimination, both direct and systemic, that Deaf people face each day; and even for the lack of support that exists to help their relationship succeed.

[Edit]1 Common Issues

[Edit]1.1 Communication

• the hearing partner learning to sign

[Edit]1.2 Cross Cultural

• deaf culture awareness

[Edit]1.3 General

• co-dependency

[Edit]2 Support Resources

It can be difficult to find Deaf Aware support for partners of Deaf people. Suggested resources include;

• Other partners of Deaf people

• counselors who can sign and are Deaf-aware

Last changed: 15.07.2007 23:14 by 220.237.91.50 -