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Subject Area

Public Policy, Social Work

Abstract

This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to examine the experiences of formerly incarcerated deaf people in the carceral system. The examination of lived experiences in this research offers a context to the belief that the carceral system is structurally unqualified to address the significant, but nuanced needs of deaf people. This study counters the neglect of the intersectional experiences of incarcerated deaf people that exists in research literature by providing them the opportunity to share their stories in their own words through in-depth semi-structured interviews. Five previously incarcerated deaf adults were interviewed using a digital video platform. Using phenomenological methods, questions were asked that focused on the experiences of participants in the areas of access, abuse, and social connectedness. Results identified seven themes and twenty-three subthemes including: The Structure of an Oppressive Environment (Violence, Delays, Additional Burdens on Deaf Incarcerated People, Harassment, Staff Misconduct, Miscommunication), The Need for Accommodations and the Lack Thereof (Appropriate Accommodations, Inappropriate Accommodations), Advocating for Self and Others (Self Advocacy, Advocating for Others), Contributions From Supportive Figures (External Support, Support From Incarcerated People), Disparities in the Lived Experiences of Deaf People (Intersectionality, Impact of Education, Learned Helplessness, Disconnect From Other Deaf People, Disassociation From Deafness, Communication Reassurance), The Pain of Isolation (Discomfort, Self-Constriction), and Strategies for Navigating the System (Motivation, Posturing, Keeping busy). A discussion of themes is presented, followed by recommendations for scholars who seek to understand disparity and intersectionality, advocates who fight injustice, and lawyers and policymakers who have the power to ensure the protection of deaf people in carceral environments.

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