"Research is creating new knowledge."

This study examined the prevalence and psychological impact of trauma among deaf adults, highlighting the significant burden of traumatic experiences within the deaf community. Findings demonstrated that participants had experienced multiple forms of trauma throughout their lives, with greater trauma exposure associated with increased symptoms of PTSD, depression, dissociation, anger, substance use, and other mental health concerns. The study also identified several factors that may increase vulnerability to trauma, including limited social support, additional disabilities, and experiences of discrimination. In addition, the article introduced the concept of Information Deprivation Trauma, emphasizing how communication barriers and limited access to critical information may contribute to unique trauma experiences among deaf individuals.

This study explored the relationship between dissociation and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in deaf adults while evaluating the reliability of commonly used measures of dissociation. The findings demonstrated that psychoform dissociation—such as memory gaps, depersonalization, and disruptions in awareness—was significantly associated with PTSD symptoms in the deaf population. Deaf adults with dissociative PTSD also experienced higher levels of depression, anger, impaired self-concept, tension-reduction behaviors, and somatic symptoms than those with PTSD alone. The study highlights the importance of recognizing dissociation as a significant aspect of trauma among deaf individuals and underscores the need for comprehensive, trauma-informed assessment and treatment.

This study examined the prevalence and psychological impact of physical and sexual trauma among deaf adults, revealing high rates of both childhood and adult victimization. The findings showed that individuals who experienced sexual trauma were significantly more likely to develop symptoms of PTSD and depression, and those who were sexually abused during childhood faced a substantially greater risk of revictimization later in life. The study also found that physical and sexual abuse frequently co-occurred, highlighting the complex nature of trauma experienced by many deaf individuals. These findings underscore the need for early prevention efforts, accessible trauma-informed services, and specialized interventions to reduce victimization and support recovery within the deaf community.

This publication introduces the concept of Information Deprivation Trauma (IDT), proposing that the inability to access essential information during threatening or life-altering situations can itself be a traumatic experience. The article explores how uncertainty, lack of communication, and barriers to understanding may contribute to fear, helplessness, and psychological distress, particularly when individuals are unable to protect themselves or respond effectively. The paper also presents clinical examples and introduces the Information Deprivation Trauma Interview (IDTI), a structured assessment tool designed to support both clinical practice and future research.

This publication explores the use of telehealth as a means of improving access to mental health care for deaf individuals, a population that has historically faced significant barriers to psychological services. The article discusses the unique linguistic and cultural characteristics of the deaf community, examines the advantages and limitations of delivering psychotherapy through videoconferencing technology, and reviews the emerging research supporting telehealth for deaf clients. It also highlights the need for greater access to culturally and linguistically competent clinicians and encourages continued research to improve the quality and accessibility of mental health services for the deaf community.