Culture Values of Honor among Deaf Adolescents in Kenya

This study examines the cultural values of honor, face, and dignity among Deaf adolescents in Kenya. A quantitative research design was utilized, employing a multistage sampling method to select 309 Deaf secondary school students. The study was grounded in the Cultural Frame Switching Theory. Data were gathered using an adapted version of the Honor, Face, and Dignity Scale for Deaf adolescents (α = .8), with responses assessed on a Likert scale. A total of 285 questionnaires were analyzed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the data. The findings revealed that Deaf adolescents endorse strong cultural values related to honor, face, and dignity. The highest mean scores are observed for honor-related behaviors such as “I should protect the reputation of women I am related to” (Mean = 4.15, SD = 0.781) and “If my friend’s reputation is questioned, I should come to their defense” (Mean = 4.52, SD = 0.500). T-tests indicated significant gender differences in the endorsement of honor values (p < 0.05), with males showing a higher inclination to defend personal honor compared to females. ANOVA results revealed significant age differences in the endorsement of dignity-related values, particularly in self-respect and moral integrity (F(2, 291) = 5.32, p < 0.05).This study concludes that Deaf adolescents in Kenya place a high value on honor, face, and dignity, with notable gender and age differences in how these values are expressed. The research points out the importance of considering cultural values when addressing the social integration and emotional well-being of Deaf individuals.