Perceptions about Disability among Persons with and without Disabilities in Sekondi, Ghana: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Persons with disabilities constitute a significant proportion of the minority population in Sekondi, Ghana. Yet, they are the most neglected and existing programs do not meet their needs. Consequently, this study aimed to understand the perception of persons without disabilities towards individuals with disabilities in Sekondi and to explore the attitudes of the general public towards disability. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 persons with disabilities and 25 persons without disabilities over an eight-week period. Persons with disabilities were individuals receiving services from the Department of Social Welfare in Sekondi. Thematic analysis was used to analysed data from the interviews. The study revealed that the participants without disabilities viewed disability as a disease and a punishment from God or the gods. Yet, they indicated that they showed compassion and love towards persons with disabilities. However, most persons with disabilities disagreed to this while a few argued that they were shown love by their typical peers. Also, both persons with and without disabilities stated that having the experience with care for persons with disabilities and being a female are features which meant the individual is likely to develop positive attitude towards persons with disabilities. It has been suggested that training should be given to people with the experience and more women caring for persons with disabilities in Ghana as these women are more likely to provide adequate care and protection for individuals with disabilities. Finally, policies and programs for persons with disabilities in Sekondi should consider recommendations to promote the wellbeing of persons with disabilities.