We understand the importance of social fluency

The desire for social interaction is deep-seated in us. As individuals who work in hearing care, helping our patients grasp the importance of clear communication can simplify the connection between good hearing and sustaining social relationships.

Social connection: A fundamental human need

At the heart of what it means to be human is the fundamental need for social interaction; the desire to feel connected, understood, and part of a community. This need for social ties is so powerful that not having it can have serious effects on health.

Examining Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (see Figure below), after physiological and safety needs are satisfied, the need for love and belonging emerges at the bottom of Maslow’s pyramid. Love and belonging refer to the emotional aspect of human life that involves the need for social connections, a sense of belonging, and being included in a group. Further research by Bowen in 2021 expands on Maslow’s five needs categories, suggesting that communication should also be considered a basic human need. This is because without communication, social relationships would not be possible, and they would not exist.

Beyond speech understanding: Emotional need for social fluency

Understanding spoken language is a crucial part of taking care of one’s hearing, but there’s also a significant emotional requirement for being able to communicate socially smoothly.

The significance of interacting socially and being able to converse easily is crucial in the field of hearing care. It’s not merely about understanding spoken words; it’s about feeling assured, at ease, and natural when engaging with others. It’s about enabling people to fully take part in life’s social events with confidence and simplicity.

This feeling component frequently influences choices, as individuals look for options that not only fulfill their practical requirements but also improve their general well-being. Nonetheless, studies indicate that psychological and social support are rarely offered in audiology clinical settings, affecting not just the mental and emotional health of our patients but also affecting various physical and mental abilities.

If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble understanding, following or participating in conversations. An untreated hearing loss can often manifest in outbursts of anger, low self-esteem, depression, and embarrassment.

We are here to help. Book your free hearing test and connect with your loved ones.