Investigating the Effect of Physical Activities on Social Skills in Athletes and Non-athletes Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students

Background: Hearing loss and deafness can significantly impact the socialization process, potentially leading to developmental delays, communication challenges, and difficulties in forming social relationships. Objectives: This study compares social skills among deaf students who are athletes and non-athletes. In addition, it investigates the effect of physical activities on social skills in deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Methods: This cross-sectional study included all deaf and hard-of-hearing students between the ages of 12 and 17 years. The students were categorized into two groups based on their participation in sports activities, namely athletes and non-athletes. The researchers used Matson’s social skills questionnaire to assess the students’ social skills and their various dimensions. Results: The Mean±SD age of student-athletes and non-athletes was 15.83±1.97 and 17.08±2.12 years, respectively. The findings indicated a significant difference between the mean of appropriate social skills, antisocial behaviors, aggressiveness, impulsive behaviors, feelings of superiority, high self-confidence, and peer relationships between deaf and hard-of-hearing students who are athletes and non-athletes. Conclusions: Sports can serve as a valuable avenue for deaf and hard-of-hearing children to foster understanding and interaction among themselves. Engaging in sports activities may enhance their social skills.