FY 2008 Annual Report of Achievements - Gallaudet University

Cochlear Implants and Gallaudet University
See Sociology.
Comparison of Traumatic Stress Symptoms in Deaf and Hearing College
Students
Status: Ongoing Begin date: November 2007 End date: May 2009
Principal Investigator(s):
Nead, Daniel (student) – Psychology
Description:
The research project samples deaf college students’ exposure to, or lack of exposure to,
traumatic events and any resulting psychological sequelae. This data will be used to help standardize
the measures for use with deaf populations and to better assess deaf people’s experience with trauma
and how to provide appropriate services. The results will also be applied to current theories of the
development of traumatic stress symptoms and disorders as well as help determine factors which
influence the etiology, progression, and treatment of related disorders. Data collection is currently in
progress.
Funding source: GRI Small Grant
Demographic Characteristics of Deaf Persons With Schizophrenia
Status: Completed Begin date: March 2007 End date: May 2008
Principal Investigator(s):
Mompremier, LaNina (student) –
Psychology
Gutman, Virginia – Psychology
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Other Investigator(s):
Galvan, Dennis – Psychology
Leigh, Irene – Psychology
Description:
Little is known about the demographic composition of deaf persons with schizophrenia.
Previous research on schizophrenia in deaf populations published in the United States has utilized
isolated local/regional samples, forcing clinicians to make wide generalizations in creating a
comprehensive picture of this population. The current study attempts to address the dearth of
demographic information by surveying mental health professionals who serve deaf clients with
schizophrenia across the nation. Clinicians were asked to provide an estimate of the prevalence of
various characteristics among current or former deaf clients with schizophrenia. In addition,
information regarding the qualifications, training, and the level of experience in working with deaf
clients was obtained from the clinicians who responded. Seventy clinicians responded to the survey
online or by mail. Results provided demographic data on clinicians as well as the clients they serve.
Clients served by respondents mirrored many of the demographic characteristics and
social/occupational dysfunction of hearing populations, as well as early adult age of onset.
Respondents also indicated that most clients were compliant with medication and therapy
interventions, and few clients were violent/threatening toward others, experienced legal issues or
incarceration, or experienced multiple hospitalizations within one year. Clients exhibited symptoms