What defines a person who is considered hearing?

A person who is considered hearing is primarily defined by their ability to perceive sound, but when discussing cultural frameworks, especially in relation to Deaf culture, identification with a dominant hearing culture can be a marker. The correct answer indicates that someone identified with American culture may not necessarily be aware of or immersed in Deaf culture and thus is aligned with the hearing community.

In the context of cultural identity, the hearing community often emphasizes spoken language and auditory experiences, which can be starkly different from the principles and experiences of Deaf culture, where visual communication and signed languages are central. Therefore, the emphasis on someone identifying with American culture highlights a cultural perspective where auditory communication is the norm, contrasting with Deaf cultural values and practices.

Understanding the nuanced relationship between culture and identity is essential in the context of Deaf culture, illustrating how labels like "hearing" are more than just a reference to one's ability to hear; they also encompass experiences, language use, and cultural affiliation.