Language Acquisition and Development in CODAs from Saudi Arabia: Three Case Studies

Abstract

This study investigates the signed and spoken language acquisition and development of Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs) in Saudi Arabia, assessing the applicability of language theories to their experiences. It fills a notable research void regarding bilingualism and CODA language acquisition and development in non-Western settings. A qualitative methodology is employed, pivots on incorporating detailed, semi-structured interviews with three male adult hearing CODAs. These interviews yield valuable insights into how parental beliefs, family dynamics, and social attitudes influence their signed and spoken language development during childhood. Findings reveal that family language policy (FLP), extended family dynamics, and social factors significantly influence the linguistic developmental experiences of CODAs in Saudi Arabia. The study’s findings both corroborate and contest existing language theories, indicating a need for a refined comprehension of bilingual development across varied cultural landscapes. The study’s implications extend to both theory and practice, stressing the necessity for culturally sensitive research. It provides practical recommendations for educational and social policy, promoting awareness of Deaf culture and CODAs' multilingual needs in Saudi society. This study enriches the discourse on bilingualism by offering an in-depth understanding of CODA language development in a non-Western context, thus questioning and broadening existing theoretical frameworks.