Self-Stigma and Age-Related Hearing Loss: A Qualitative Study of Stigma Formation and Dimensions
Publication: American Journal of Audiology
Volume 27, Number 1
Pages 126-136
Abstract
Purpose
This study explored experiences of self-stigma among older persons with age-related hearing loss (ARHL) using Corrigan's conceptualization of self-stigma process formation and the attribution model as its theoretical framework.
Method
In-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 older persons (mean age = 81 years) with ARHL.
Results
Self-stigma was present in the lives of the participants. Analysis revealed the existence of 3 stages of self-stigma in which the 3 core dimensions of stigma (cognitive attributions: being old, stupid, and crippled; emotional reactions: shame, pity, and feeling ridiculed; and behavioral reactions: concealment, distancing, and adapting to hearing aids) were observed. Hearing devices emerged as having a significant influence on stigmatic experiences in all stages and dimensions of self-stigma.
Conclusion
The study contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of self-stigma regarding ARHL as well as to the understanding of the role of hearing devices in the development of this stigma.
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Copyright © 2018 American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
History
- Received: May 11, 2017
- Revised: Aug 2, 2017
- Accepted: Oct 11, 2017
- Published in issue: Mar 8, 2018
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