Comparative Reflections on the Acquisition of Language in Hearing and Deaf Children: A Case of Natural Learning of Mexican Sign Language

Abstract

Sign languages are visual and iconic languages used by Deaf communities worldwide. Sign language develops from the linguistic stimulus in the visuo-gestural modality, unlike hearing children who receive the stimulus in the auditory-vocal modality. This paper presents one case study in Mexico where deaf children naturally acquire Mexican Sign Language (LSM). Deaf children can access and develop sign language if the immediate context offers ways parallel to oral language development. Universal Grammar and biolinguistics support the natural process of the acquisition of languages.