Mental health outcomes in children and adolescents who are deaf and hard of hearing: A systematic review

This systematic review sought to evaluate the mental health outcomes of children and adolescents who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH), examining factors that affect their psychological well-being and social behavior. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and included empirical studies (qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods) published in English. A thorough search was conducted across nine databases (Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, etc.) up to January 2024. Studies focused on DHH populations were included, while literature reviews and non-empirical articles were excluded. A total of 45 studies met the inclusion criteria after a two-phase screening process. Study quality was assessed using a 14-criteria scoring system, and data extraction was completed by the first author, with validation by co-authors. Due to the variability across studies, a thematic analysis was conducted instead of a meta-analysis. The findings emphasize the multifaceted factors influencing the mental health of children and adolescents who are DHH. Key factors such as communication mode, educational environment, early intervention, and social connections play a significant role in their psychological well-being. Customized interventions, particularly related to communication and educational settings, are crucial for improving outcomes in this group. Future research should aim to develop and evaluate interventions that address these critical factors to promote better psychosocial development for individuals who are DHH.