Date of Award
2025
Type
Thesis
Major
Health Science
Degree Type
Master of Public Health
Department
Kinesiology and Health Sciences
First Advisor
Patricia Anafi, PhD.
Second Advisor
Rebecca Toland, PhD.
Abstract
The prevalence of perception and fear surrounding families with children with developmental disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa reveal a complex interplay of cultural, social, economic, and healthcare factors. This interplay of factors results in stigma, which often leads to societal misconceptions and discrimination, exacerbating the challenges faced by affected families. This study seeks to identify the individual and family perception of developmental disabilities, document the stigma experienced by the individual and their families, and document the resources available to help alleviate the plight faced by the individuals and their families. It further seeks to find gaps in the literature on developmental disabilities. In pursuit of objectives, a scoping review was conducted by searching the various databases thoroughly, targeting individuals and their families’ perceptions on developmental disabilities and their causes, associated stigma, and the interventions and resources available to them. This review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. This research incorporates references and conclusions from over 80 studies conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study found that the perception that an individual's view is shaped by societal misconceptions about developmental disabilities is influenced by cultural and religious beliefs. These beliefs suggest that developmental disabilities are caused by family wrongdoings or punishment by supernatural forces. Moreover, it was identified that interventions should not only raise awareness but also focus on changing how people behave toward individuals with disabilities and their families, as this approach is more effective. This review concludes that there is a gap in knowledge on the best interventions needed to change the misconceptions that people have towards individuals with disabilities and their families and the causes of developmental disabilities, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Recommended Citation
Boamah, Isaac Twum, "A Scoping Review of Perceptions and Fears Experienced by Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 757.
https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/757
