Growing Up With Disability in Ghana: Experiences and Perspectives
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Date
2014-06
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ghana Social Science Journal
Abstract
Despite the international conventions and national laws that exist to ensure
the welfare of people living with disabilities, major issues of abuse and neglect
continue to persist in Ghana. The paper looks at the challenges associated with
growing up with disabilities in Ghana. It examines the factors that contribute
to the maltreatment of children living with disabilities (CWDs), and the nature
and effects of such maltreatment. In-depth interviews were held with children
and adults with disabilities, community members and officials working with or
on behalf of CWDs. The findings indicate that poverty, ignorance and societal
perceptions, and the general inadequacy of facilities for the care of CWDs
contribute to their abuse and neglect. The study recommends communitywide
education on the causes of disability and the need for social workers to
act to influence policy implementation
Description
Ghana Social Science Journal, 17 (1)
Keywords
Child abuse, Child maltreatment, Child neglect, Disabilities, Ghana