What is the distribution of deaf children born into hearing families compared to those born into deaf families?

The correct answer highlights that a significantly larger number of deaf children are born into hearing families compared to those born into deaf families. This phenomenon can be understood through the prevalence of congenital hearing loss in the general population, which is influenced by various genetic, environmental, and societal factors.

Approximately 90% of children who are deaf or hard of hearing are born to hearing parents, indicating that these families may not have prior experience with deafness or knowledge of sign language, which can impact their ability to communicate and support the child effectively. This trend underscores the importance of awareness, resources, and support systems for families navigating these circumstances.

In contrast, deaf families are more likely to have a history of deafness, and the number of children born into such families is comparatively smaller, given the overall lower prevalence of deafness in any population. This understanding not only reflects social dynamics but also informs intervention approaches in audiology and education for deaf children.