Abstract
<p>Telecommunications and videoconference systems are increasingly replacing face-to-face communication (F2F). Video-mediated communication (VMC) offers the benefit of virtual F2F communication over long distances. The purpose of this study was to compare communication performance and perceptions for deaf individuals in F2F and VMC situations using a Map Task. Deaf participants were instructed by a deaf instructor using American Sign Language to mark routes. There were no significant differences in the length of sessions, almost all communication breakdown events, map task deviations, and overall outcomes. The results suggest that effective communication can occur in VMC situations. Research is needed to gauge the effectiveness of VMC conditions in the delivery of mental health services including telepsychotherapy to deaf individuals who may not have access to local signing mental health services providers.</p>
