Which Words Should You Use for Deaf People?

 Author by Zora Elliott-Mendelsohn 

People often do not realize it, but words play a huge role in their perception of everything. When words are used in the wrong way to define something, those words can negatively shape a person’s perception. This concept happens many times with Deaf people and the wrong terms that describe them. 

Labels and Their Definitions

There are different labels to define a person who is Deaf. Many are positive or neutral. However, not all of them describe a Deaf person accurately. Some terms are negative and oppress the Deaf community. For example, “Deaf and dumb” and “mute” limit a Deaf person’s experiences and identity by focusing only on their inability to hear or speak. 

 “Hearing impaired” is another example, but opinions on this term are mixed. Some still believe it is right because it has been historically used in politics to define Deaf people. But, the Deaf community considers it derogatory and offensive. The word also focuses on a Deaf person’s inability to hear. A Deaf person’s identity is more than that, so it is best to avoid using the term. For more information about the label, you can visit this link. 

Which Word Is the Best to Use?

The recommended term to use for Deaf people is “Deaf.” To many, it is neutral; for some, it is positive. The term represents the part of a person’s identity instead of their deafness as their whole identity. It recognizes not only the person’s identity but the Deaf community as a whole. Using this term will help shape people’s perception of the Deaf community in a positive light