Systematic Review of Literature: Social Capital and Adolescents who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Outcomes have improved for adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) in recent years in areas such as language and speech; however, outcomes such as pragmatic and psychosocial development are still not equal to adolescents with typical hearing. This systematic review of literature explored recent research as it pertains to social capital and adolescents who are DHH. The inclusion criteria were extended to include other populations who are DHH and adolescents with other disabilities to identify future research directions. Themes identified in the reviewed literature viewed through social capital theory included psychosocial outcomes; the importance of language; the benefit of online social networking sites; the role of the family; the role of the school; inclusion and identity; role models; and post-school transition. Results demonstrated that social capital is an area with much promise as it relates to buffering outcomes for adolescents who are DHH. More empirical evidence is required in the form of quantitative research using validated social capital instruments and qualitative research that gives a voice to adolescents who are DHH. The role of social capital in facilitating inclusion, identity, and friendships, were identified as possible future research directions.