WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

Which of the following is a psychological characteristic commonly associated with hearing impairment?

1. Increased intelligence levels

2. Substantial academic deficits, especially in reading

3. Enhanced social interactions

4. Improved auditory processing

The correct answer is: Substantial academic deficits, especially in reading

Substantial academic deficits, especially in reading, is a psychological characteristic commonly associated with hearing impairment because the ability to hear plays a crucial role in language acquisition and literacy development. Children with hearing impairments may struggle to access the sounds of language, which can lead to difficulties in phonics, vocabulary development, and ultimately, reading comprehension. This can result in academic challenges, particularly in areas that heavily rely on strong reading skills. Hearing impairment can also affect a child's ability to participate fully in classroom discussions and social interactions that enhance learning, which compounds these reading difficulties. Therefore, while other factors, such as environmental influences and educational support, can impact an individual’s academic performance, the inherent challenges associated with hearing loss often lead to significant deficits in literacy.