Few studies have addressed the psychological effects of oralism, a philosophy that most commonly advocates auditory-verbal training (AVT), while simultaneously discouraging or outright banning sign language. The psychological ramifications of oralism are pervasive and enduring, reaching far beyond the childhood years, well into adulthood. Oralism directly and indirectly influences psychological development and functioning and perpetuates the prevailing societal attitude of audism, the belief that being able to hear and speak is inherently superior to being Deaf and signing.