In the context of the identity paradigm and depending on the type of self-identification, personality characteristics, specific (for deaf) and non-specific coping, r factors associated with deafness of 557 deaf and hard of hearing students was studied.Degree of hearing loss and type of communication played a decisive role in the formation of identity: students with greater hearing loss more often considered themselves to be in the “world of the deaf” The “hearing” identity was significantly different only by lower self-esteem and the use of the specific coping “Immersion”.Lack of identity was characteristic of the deaf with worst mental health, lowest level of formation their personality traits and coping. Reduced personal resources and unformed coping did not contribute to their mental adaptation. Bicultural identity was the most successful in adaptation. They were distinguished by high self-esteem and a sense of self-worth, good mental health, ability for empathy and willingness to cooperate, as well as developed self-awareness and personal resources. They had the widest repertoire of both specific and non-specific coping strategies, which made them more flexible and increased their adaptive potential.