Final answer:
Paternalism in this context refers to a controlling attitude where hearing people assume they should help deaf people be part of hearing society.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this context, paternalism refers to a controlling attitude. It is the assumption by hearing people that they should take it upon themselves to help deaf people be a part of hearing society, without considering deaf individuals' own preferences or needs.
This can be seen as a form of paternalistic behavior, as it involves making decisions for others based on a belief that they are unable to make choices for themselves.