A qualitative literature review of how hearing codas navigate deafness stigma

The theoretical contexts of stigma have rarely been applied to a study of the experiences of hearing children of deaf adults (Codas), nor to the ways they respond to parental stigmatization and the efforts they take to protect their parents from these stressors. The wellbeing of Coda children, young people and adults is known to be challenged by discrimination and social exclusion arising from deaf-related
stigmatization. It is therefore imperative that these are addressed appropriately to enable Codas to reach their potential and to recognize the agency that Codas have in supporting their deaf parents. This narrative review aims to specifically explore Codas’ experiences of courtesy stigma, indirect stigma or stigma-by-association. The databases Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and reference lists of publications were searched; 61 peer-reviewed articles and 2 books were screened; 22 articles featuring qualitative studies and 2 books were included. The researchers found that Codas experienced courtesy stigma due to their association with deaf parents but also exhibit a sense of resilience and agency. Understanding and valuing Codas’ lived experience of courtesy stigma help to make more appropriate recommendations for future research and social interventions.