Comparison of Executive Functions, Emotional Intelligence, and Motivated Strategies for Learning in Adolescents with Normal Hearing and Those with Hearing Impairment Using either Hearing Aids or Cochlear Implantation

Background and Objective: Hearing impairment affects all aspects of a personchr('39')s life. This study aimed to compare executive functions, emotional intelligence, and motivated strategies for learning in adolescents with normal hearing and those with hearing impairment using either hearing aids or cochlear implantation in Tehran, Iran. Materials and Methods: This analytical-comparative study included 90 adolescent females and males aged 14-18 years old. They were randomly divided into three groups of 30 cases per group. The first and second groups were selected using the accessible sampling method, and the third group included healthy with normal hearing individuals that were selected using the random sampling. The data were collected using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning, Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, and Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukeychr('39')s post hoc test. There was a significant difference among the studied groups in terms of the mean values of executive functions, emotional intelligence, and motivated strategies for learning (P<0.01). Moreover, the group with normal hearing obtained higher mean scores of executive functions, emotional intelligence, and motivated strategies for learning, compared to the other two groups. Furthermore, the mean scores of executive functions, emotional intelligence, and motivated strategies for learning were higher in the adolescents with a cochlear implant, compared to those with hearing aid. Adolescents with normal hearing are in better condition. Individuals with hearing impairment can achieve some acquired levels of executive functions, emotional intelligence, and increased motivated strategies for learning only if they are provided with proper cognitive training, the same as their normal peers. Therefore, there is a need for a special rehabilitation program to take the necessary steps for modifying these components.