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Maya E. Weaver, Psy.D., is a 2026 graduate of the Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • Katherine Evarts, PsyD, Chairperson
  • Cynthia Whitaker, PsyD, Committee Member
  • Rachel Chickerella, PhD, Committee Member

Keywords

deaf, queer, intersectionality, minority stress, phenomenology

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

The current study explores the intersectional experiences of individuals who identify as both d/Deaf and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Queer/Questioning, among other marginalized sexual identities. Historically, both Deaf and queer communities have faced significant oppression and discrimination; yet little research has examined the unique challenges encountered by those living at the intersection of these two identities, with most of the existing deaf literature focusing on heterosexual individuals and most of the queer literature centering around non-Deaf individuals. This study sought to address that gap by, within an exploration of their unique form of minority stress, investigating how identifying with both marginalized groups affects individuals’ sense of belonging within each of the Deaf and queer communities. Drawing on intersectionality as a conceptual framework (Crenshaw, 1989), 12 participants shared their lived experiences to inform the development of a minority stress model specific to Deaf queer individuals. Emergent themes illuminate patterns of discrimination in contemporary contexts, the impact of frequent assumptions and misunderstandings, the resulting internal distress processes, and the strategies used to build resilience. Participants particularly emphasized the importance of connection, both with others and with themselves, as a vital source of strength in navigating social and structural barriers. Overall, these findings highlight the compounded challenges faced by Deaf queer individuals, as well as the critical need for increased research, interventions, and policies for this particular population. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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ORCID iD: 0009-0005-2748-4388

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