Deaf Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence

While limited research exists regarding the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence within the Deaf community, it is known that Deaf individuals experience violence at significant rates. The need for further research is clear, as well as the need for enhanced services and supports to meet the unique needs of Deaf survivors. Effective interventions to address domestic and sexual violence within the Deaf community require, at the very least, ongoing training and education about Deaf culture, collaboration between the Deaf community and hearing allies, the development of appropriate policies and procedures, and the implementation of linguistically and culturally responsive services. To support the work of Deaf and hearing service providers, this section offers information on the prevalence and dynamics of abuse as experienced by Deaf survivors. Also included are recommendations for best practices around accessibility, the use of interpreters, and building trust and collaboration between the Deaf community and hearing service providers.