A visual dialogue between lived and perceived experiences of Deafness: addressing power imbalances in therapy with vulnerable populations

Abstract

Abstract How does a hearing therapist avoid relying on stereotypes in an overarching characterisation of the Deaf experience to engage in meaningful and useful therapy for Deaf people, who are not only vulnerable as a result of hearing loss, but by the dire socio-economic circumstances in South Africa? Adopting a mentalising stance, this arts-based research interrogates how I, a researcher-clinician, perceive potential Deaf clients, how these clients believe that I see them, how that belief affects their self-perception and how this ultimately can affect their behaviour, thoughts, and emotions. To achieve this, I am taking on the role of a participant observer, engaging in artmaking processes and discussions alongside three participants and asking of myself, what I am asking of the participants. A person-centred approach is fitting in this regard as it implies that clients can direct and inform their own therapy and healing. The exploration of our experiences throughout this study exists through dialogue and relationship; therefore, the therapeutic relationship is investigated through the lens of attachment theory. The findings are three-fold: firstly, that a dialogical approach in artmaking expedites the revelation of uncomfortable biases and prejudices within the group and provides a safe and meaningful space in which to explore these; secondly, that artwork effectively underpins and reinforces communication and connection between hearing and Deaf people; lastly, that both art therapy and mentalising are visual, intrapersonal and interpersonal by nature – and therefore meaningful approaches to working in the Deaf community.