Metaphor Skills in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals: A Systematic Review

Ahmadreza  Nazeri; Behrooz  Mahmoodi-Bakhtiari; Farnaz  Fathollahzadeh; Azadeh  Borna; Mahdi  Azizi; Navid  Mirzakhani; Reyhaneh  Jafari; Seyede Zohre  Mousavi

doi:10.18502/avr.v35i1.20574

Ahmadreza Nazeri Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Behrooz Mahmoodi-Bakhtiari Department of Performing Arts, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Farnaz Fathollahzadeh Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Azadeh Borna Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Mahdi Azizi Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Navid Mirzakhani Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Reyhaneh Jafari Department of Communication Science and Disorders, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
Seyede Zohre Mousavi Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/avr.v35i1.20574

Keywords: Metaphor; figurative language; deaf and hard-of-hearing; task; systematic review

Abstract

Background and Aim: Metaphor is a vital element of human communication, facilitating the expression of complex ideas and emotions. However, little is known about metaphor in individuals who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing (DHH). This systematic review addressed a critical knowledge gap by providing the first comprehensive synthesis of methodologies used to study metaphor competence in individuals who are DHH. It aimed to build a cohesive understanding by examining the types, characteristics, and limitations of the tasks employed, which have not been previously aggregated and analyzed.

Recent Findings: An initial search of 331 articles was narrowed to 53 after removing duplicates and screening titles. An additional 10 articles were found through supplementary searches. After a full-text review, 29 articles were excluded for being irrelevant outcomes or language, leaving 24 eligible studies for the final analysis. 926 DHH and 1234 normal hearing participants were analyzed. Results revealed considerable variability. While some studies report no significant differences between DHH and hearing individuals, others indicate that DHH individuals have difficulties with metaphor, especially with complex or novel forms.

Conclusion: This review provides the first comprehensive overview of metaphor competence in DHH individuals, revealing its multidimensional nature and the impact of multiple linguistic and developmental factors. It underscores the need for targeted research and the creation of suitable assessment tools to inform educational and clinical practices, supporting improved metaphor comprehension and use in DHH populations.