Psychosocial Challenges of Women with Disabilities in Some Selected Districts of Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate psychological and social challenges of women with disabilities in Gedeo zone, southern Ethiopia. To this effect a qualitative case study design was used. Data were collected from purposively selected 26 sample participants lived in Dilla, Wenago, and Yirgacheffe. Seventeen of the women had congenital disability and the rest of them faced disabilities during childhood and at adult stage. The data were collected via non participant observation, semistructured interview, document analysis and field notes. Data were analyzed using recorded discussions, transcribing verbatim, identifying patterns and relationships among categories. The study indicated that women with disabilities lived in the study area faced social challenges like abuse, discrimination, neglect, rape and harassment. Due to these social problems, they were exposed to psychological challenges like depression, anxiety, fear, and worthlessness. Based on the findings and analysis, possible suggestions and recommendations were presented.
Keyword:
Challenges, Abuse, Disability and Legal protection.