Bilingualism and Biculturalism: The Impact of Sign Language and Spoken Language Acquisition on Deaf Identity Formation

Abstract

Bilingualism and biculturalism play a crucial role in shaping the identity of deaf individuals, particularly through the acquisition of both sign language and spoken language. This paper explores how fluency in these two languages influences the formation of deaf identity, focusing on the intersection of linguistic competence and cultural affiliation. Sign language is deeply tied to Deaf culture, providing a strong sense of community and belonging for deaf individuals. On the other hand, spoken language proficiency opens doors to mainstream opportunities, fostering engagement with the hearing world. The acquisition of both languages allows deaf individuals to navigate between Deaf and hearing cultures, often resulting in a bicultural identity. However, this process can also lead to challenges, such as identity conflicts and a sense of isolation if one language is favored over the other. The paper examines the 
cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of bilingualism, as well as the complexities of balancing these two languages. It also highlights the importance of educational strategies and policies that support both sign language and spoken language acquisition to foster a well-rounded identity. By promoting linguistic and cultural inclusivity, this paper argues that bilingualism and biculturalism are essential in shaping a positive and empowered deaf identity, allowing individuals to thrive in both Deaf and hearing communities.