Unheard and abandoned, deaf behind bars: A global scoping review.

Abstract

Background: Every human is entitled to dignified and respectful treatment, irrelevant of their personal circumstances with The Universal Declaration of Human Rights implemented to support this basic need. However, this entitlement is not consistently accessed by vulnerable and neglected populations across the world. The prison population is one which is both vulnerable and neglected on several levels, one of those being academic research. Those who belong to marginalised groups within prison experience further neglect. Incarcerated deaf individuals are one of the most neglected groups, with a profound lack of research currently globally available and research that is available highlighting the immeasurable hardships suffered.

Methods: This research adopted a global scoping review approach based on the Arksey and O’Malley 2005 framework to summarise the current data available, which investigates how those who are hard of hearing navigate prison life.

Results: The research findings highlighted a precedented lack in research currently available with large portions of the globe having no record of published data. Throughout the literature, consistent reports of extreme neglect and isolation were discovered as caused by the foundational structure of the prison environment producing an inaccessible environment for those who are deaf. This research also highlighted that despite cases of hearing screening having positive implications on the hearing health of inmates, this has not been made a standard of prison entry in any location across the globe. Finally, research was unable to identify evidence of a data monitoring system within prison to identify deaf individuals and ensure the correct accommodations and adaptations are implemented as required by law.

Conclusion: This research is the first of its kind in conclusively identifying a complete lack of focus upon a highly vulnerable population suffering immensely within prison. This study creates foundations for future research that can be used to inform policy and practiced globally. Along with this, a change in attitude treating those who are deaf with respect and highlighting the importance of providing support to create equity between inmates who are deaf and inmates who are not. As each day passes without further research, intervention or change, irreversible damage is transpiring to individuals globally and presents a threat to deaf individuals’ human rights.