SOCIAL PROTOCOLS
Within the deaf community there are different 'social norms' that should be observed as visuals are what is totally relied on. While there is definite crossover, many behaviours that wouldn't be thought twice about in both the deaf and hearing community may be considered inappropriate, therefore an awareness is necessary.
GAINING ATTENTION
Deaf/Hearing -> Deaf Flickering lights Tapping on shoulder Waving arms Stomping (awareness of floor material) Walking through the middle of a conversation Deaf -> Hearing Clapping Stomping Flickering lights Tapping on shoulder Banging on wall, table etc. |
----- = most suited to group situations
------ = most suited to one on one or small group situations *** Line of sight is incredibly important when needing to gain attention as it is polite to not 'sneak up' on someone. This applies for things such as -waving arms -tapping shoulder -walking through conversation <-Walking through the middle of a conversation is one of the ways of gaining attention that requires quite a shift in mindset as in hearing culture it is considered rude to interrupt people while they are engaged in a conversation. However in deaf culture it is considered rude to stop and stare and 'listen in' on people why they are conversing. <- Being aware of where you are touching a person is also very important especially if you do not know them. Shoulder/upper arm is most appropriate coming from the front not behind. |