Cultural Considerations When Using Tactile ASL (TASL)
American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language that relies on sight to communicate ideas and concepts. For most Deaf individuals, ASL is an effective way to share information. However, for individuals who are DeafBlind, touch becomes the primary way of receiving information. Tactile ASL (TASL) is a variation of ASL specifically adapted to meet the unique needs of the DeafBlind community, where signs are modified to be communicated through touch rather than sight.
The Importance of Touch in TASL
In traditional ASL, many signs assume that the person receiving the message can see the movements. For example, signs like “searching,” “looking for,” or “noticing” often involve gestures that suggest visually scanning or looking around. These signs rely on sight and would not make sense to a DeafBlind person that does not rely on vision.
To make these concepts understandable in TASL, the signs must be adjusted to communicate through touch. For instance, when expressing the idea of “searching” or “looking for” something, the interpreter might lightly touch the DeafBlind person’s arm or leg repeatedly with their fingers. The movement mimics the sensation of searching by feel, rather than by sight. This tactile adjustment allows the DeafBlind person to understand the sign through touch.
Adapting Visual Signs for Touch
In addition to simple touch, there are other ways to adapt visual ASL signs to fit the DeafBlind experience. For example:
- The interpreter might lightly brush their leg against the DeafBlind person’s leg to convey the sensation of something happening nearby.
- To represent vibration, the interpreter could gently “vibrate” their hand against the DeafBlind person’s arm or leg.
- Another method might involve a short puff of air directed at the back of the DeafBlind person’s hand to represent sensations like wind or air movement.
These adaptations are essential because they replace visual cues with tactile ones. The goal is to ensure that the information is communicated in a way that feels natural and intuitive for the DeafBlind person-—again always using touch, not sight.
Why Cultural Sensitivity is Crucial
For interpreters, it’s important to always recognize that the DeafBlind community relies primarily on touch to gather information. Adapting ASL to include tactile elements is not just about interpreting—-it’s about cultural respect and understanding. By incorporating tactile cues, interpreters can create more effective and culturally respectful communication for DeafBlind individuals.
Enter Protactile Language…
While TASL adapts ASL for the DeafBlind community, it may not fully meet their communication needs. In response, the DeafBlind community has developed Protactile Language, which began organically in 2007 and is now becoming the preferred communication mode for many DeafBlind individuals. Protactile is a more complex and nuanced system that uses touch-based signals to convey a wider range of information and emotions.
For interpreters, this represents an exciting opportunity to learn new methods and strategies for connecting with DeafBlind individuals. Protactile Language offers a more comprehensive framework for communication that respects the unique needs of the DeafBlind community.
For those interested in exploring Protactile Language and enhancing their skills, there are free online resources available, including courses that offer 1.6 FREE RID PPO CEUs. Visit protactilelanguageinterpreting.org/onlinelearning.html for more information.