Living in the middle: the unique cultural bridge of the CODA

Music · Published 18 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Growing up with deaf parents creates a distinct cultural identity that doesn't always fit into the binary of 'hearing' or 'deaf.' These children often navigate two worlds simultaneously, serving as essential linguistic and social liaisons while facing unique psychological pressures and social dynamics.

Individuals raised by at least one deaf guardian or parent are categorised as CODAs, irrespective of their own hearing status. While 90% of children born to deaf adults are not deaf, the CODA experience is a widespread global community. This identity is often described as a 'bridge' between two divergent cultures. Many CODAs do not identify exclusively with either the hearing or deaf world, but rather as a distinct group existing in the middle of both.

The role of a CODA can mirror that of a second-generation immigrant child. Because deaf parents may rely on their hearing children for fluency in the majority spoken language, CODAs often act as interpreters. This can lead to 'parentification,' where children are tasked with translating cognitively or emotionally heavy information, such as serious medical diagnoses, at an inappropriate age. Additionally, CODAs may face specific social challenges, such as being subjected to prejudice against their family or experiencing isolation from hearing peers due to their unique upbringing.

Practical differences in sensory processing also shape the CODA experience. For example, deaf people are often more easily distracted by movement in their peripheral vision and may use it instinctively to grab attention. Hearing toddlers, however, have different visual attention patterns, which can create challenges in establishing joint attention. To navigate these nuances, highly sensitive parents may need to consciously adjust their communication styles to accommodate their child's hearing status. Organizations like CODA, founded in 1983, provide a dedicated forum for these shared experiences, advocacy, and community support.

The CODA community is diverse and international, with support systems ranging from educational websites and pop-up camps to international conferences. Notable figures across various fields—including politics, sports, and the arts—have navigated this dual identity, illustrating the broad impact of the CODA experience on global culture.

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