Abstract
Empirical language research with deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) groups often includes proficiency, age of acquisition, or language background measures but excludes people’s socioemotional context. Measuring socioemotional context depends on characterizing the socioemotional experiences associated with DHH language development and use. We used the biopsychosocial model of arousal regulation as a theoretical lens to explore 11 qualitative interviews with DHH participants. Using reflexive thematic analysis, we developed three characteristic themes: 1) Deafness is not a monolith, 2) Name it to tame it – Language Anxiety, and 3) Positive roots for resilient shoots. These themes show that DHH language experiences are heterogeneous, that negative experiences can represent language anxiety, and that positive experiences modulate arousal regulation. Our study highlights new socioemotional considerations for language processing research like how emotions influence language use, how motivations support language skills, and how communication strategies impact social interactions within DHH communities.