The Attitudes of Parents Towards their Blind Children: a Case Study in Bahir Dar Town
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Date
2002-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to find out the attitudes of parents towards their
blind children. The method used was that of qualitative research methodology. The data were
mainly collected using an in depth interview. Seven parents were the main informants of the
study.
The results of the study indicated that parents expressed different reactions as a result
of having blind children. These were shock, denial, anger and sadness. The stigma held by the
society about the causes of blindness influenced parents to feel quality and disgraced. This
may be one of the causes for parents to develop negative attitude towards their blind children.
The beliefs held by parents about the causes of their children’s blindness varies from
real cause to sin, evil eye, curse, misdeed in previous life by parents and misfortune. The
types of treatment sought by parents to get cure for their children varies from modern medical
center to traditional healer, witchcraft, prayer, and holy water. Some parents believed that
their blind children have less learning potential, unable to accomplish household chores, and
unable to play like sighted. Those parents who are in better educational level have positive
perception about their blind children and play positive role in the overall personality
development of their children
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A Case Study in Bahir Dar Town