As children develop, they are able to use their knowledge of mental states to predict behavior. There remains much to learn, but it appears that deaf children are vulnerable to delay in developing an understanding of mental states that is necessary for a mature theory of mind. Such delays may negatively impact their understanding of other people's viewpoints and perspectives, interpersonal relations, and enjoyment of stories with book characters who are different from themselves. Teachers may find children's literature useful in helping children to understand mental states and perspectives. In facilitating their deaf students theory of mind development, these teachers may enhance these children's lives in many ways.
Children talk about the mind .
Oxford University Press. The Pain and the Great One . Young children s knowledge about thinking. The Development of Deaf Children. Deafness, conversation, and theory of mind.