Social outcomes of students who are deaf and hard of hearing in general education classrooms

Students with hearing loss attending general education classrooms have been reported to experience difficulties in social skills and relationships. This 5-year longitudinal study examined the social skills and problem behaviors of students who were deaf or hard of hearing, and who attended general education classrooms. Data were obtained from classroom teachers and students themselves. The mean Social Skills and Problem Behavior scores (Social Skills Rating Scales; Gresham & Elliott, 1990) were within the average range and normally distributed each year. The average change over 5 years in social skills and problem behavior was not significant. The most consistent predictors of social outcomes were the students' classroom communication participation and participation in extracurricular activities. Implications for placement, intervention, and further research are discussed.