The role of spirituality/religiosity in the lives of people who are hearing impaired

The purpose of this study was to explore the role that spirituality/religion has in the lives of individuals with a hearing impairment. The sample included 10 participants who had varying degrees of hearing loss. Qualitative interviews were used to acquire an understanding of participant's experiences and beliefs. Analysis of the data revealed that spirituality and religious faith played a vital role in the participant's lives. Participants reported that religious activities such as church attendance opened up more social and network opportunities to interact with other deaf. Participants also reported that spirituality/religion functioned as strong coping mechanisms in the midst of the immense hardship they experience as a result of their hearing impairment. All participants expressed that their spiritual/religious beliefs shaped their understanding of their existential purpose