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Language
A central component of Deaf culture in the United States is American Sign Language (ASL). ASL is a visual language, meaning that information is expressed through combinations of handshapes and movements, body movements, and facial expressions rather than sounds as is the case with spoken languages. It is based on the idea that sight is the most useful tool a Deaf person has to communicate.
A Distinct Language
Even though it is used in the United States, ASL is completely separate and distinct from English. It has its own rules of grammar and syntax (or word order). For example, in English, one would say, "I am going to the store." Whereas in ASL, one would sign, "Store me go." Other features are different. For example, in ASL, a person raises his or her eyebrows to indicate a yes or no question; whereas, in English, a person often signals a question using a tone of voice.
It is also important to note that ASL is not an international language. Like other speaking languages, different signed languages exist around the world.
An Evolving and Varied Language
Similar to other languages, ASL is an evolving language that changes overtime as its users do. It also varies as much as the people who use ASL do. For example, much like certain English words are pronounced and used differently in different parts of the country, ASL is regionally. The sign for some words may vary from region to region across the country. Other factors such as ethnicity, age, and gender, affect how ASL is used and its variety.
Etiquette
Because ASL is a visual language, there are a different set of rules for interactions or etiquette around communication than there is for English. For example, eye contact is extremely important in ASL. In English there is very little requirement for eye contact between the speaker and the listener and it is acceptable to look way from the person if other noises or activities divert our attention. In a signed conversation the people involved in the conversation must always look at each other. For Deaf people, then, breaking eye contact or no eye contact during a conversation shows indifference. Similarly, facial expressions and body language are integral parts of ASL and communication for Deaf people. Thus, Deaf people are skilled at using and reading nonverbal communication cues.
