Peer Relations in Children with Cochlear Implants / 대한이비인후과학회지

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.