Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2018 Aug;61(8):396-402. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2017.00773.

Peer Relations in Children with Cochlear Implants

• Choi YM
• Jeong SW
• Kim LS

• KMID: 2436515
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2017.00773

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Children who received cochlear implants (CIs) in early age can achieve age-appropriate language ability and can be educated in the classroom alongside normal hearing (NH) peers. However, what is rarely investigated is their relations with NH peers in the classroom. The purpose of this study was to examine the peer relations of children with CIs.
SUBJECTS AND METHOD
Peer relations were examined using a peer relation scale test that included support, intimacy, recognition, conflict, and competition. Participants were 25 children who received their first CI before 3.5 years of age. Their peer relations were compared with those of 129 children with NH.
RESULTS
Children with CIs evaluated themselves as having good peer relations, but their perception of peer relations varied according to gender and language ability. CI boys with language delay perceived lack of support and intimacy, whereas CI girls with language delay perceived more conflict than NH children. On the other hand, CI children with normal language ability showed no differences in their peer relations from NH children.
CONCLUSION
Early CI surgery and intensive language rehabilitation can prevent peer problems and promote adjustment in school life for children with CI.

Keyword

Children; Cochlear implant; Peer relations

MeSH Terms

Child*
Cochlear Implants*
Female
Hand
Hearing
Humans
Language
Language Development Disorders
Methods
Rehabilitation