Cultural Barrier

Social and cultural norms that impede learning or participation in certain activities. In sign language education, cultural barriers significantly affect hearing learners' ability to produce non-manual signs, as exaggerated facial expressions required in ASL may feel embarrassing or inappropriate in cultures that value emotional restraint. Research shows these barriers vary by cultural background (e.g., Latino learners may show greater proficiency with NMS) and gender (women tend to use facial expressions more freely than men, who may suppress expressions deemed "weak").