Experiencing Disability Stigma in Ghana: Impact on Individuals and Caregivers explores the roots of disability stigma and discrimination in Ghana as well as the social and economic impact of discrimination on individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Magnus Mfoafo-M'Carthy, Jeff Grischow, and Festus Moasun present interviews from individuals with disabilities, and caregivers faced with the burdens of caring for their loved ones. The inclusion of caregivers is particularly important, because very few studies have presented their voices despite the burdens they face alongside individuals in their care. The interviews addressed the socio-economic consequences of disability and/or mental illness in Ghana for individuals and their caregivers, the implications these consequences have for the practice of social work in Ghana, and the public policy implications of this research. This book provides new and insightful data and analysis through rich and detailed firsthand narratives of lived experiences and offers recommendations for enhanced policy and practices to reduce stigma and improve the lives and livelihoods of Ghanaians with disabilities.
Magnus Mfoafo-M'Carthy is professor of social work at Wilfrid Laurier University. Jeff Grischow is associate professor of history at Wilfrid Laurier University. Festus Moasun is assistant professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Windsor.
Acknowledgments List of Abbreviations Part 1: Setting the Context Introduction Chapter 1: The History of Disability in Ghana Part 2: Experiencing Disability and Disability Stigma Chapter 2: Culture and Disability in Ghana Chapter 3: Religion, Spirituality and Mental Illness in Ghana Chapter 4: Stigma, Discrimination and Impact on Individuals with Disabilities Chapter 5: Stigma, Discrimination and Impact on Ghanaian Families Part 3: The Way Forward Chapter 6: Doing Disability Research in Ghana: Lessons Learned and Recommendations Conclusion References About the Authors
Researching stigma and discrimination was and will continue to be a valuable scientific adventure for scholars interested in disability research. This book brings to the fore the processes that promote stigmatization and discrimination of people with disabilities and their significant others in Ghana. The lived experiences presented in this work call for action for all Ghanaian society members, including policymakers and implementers. This vital work is essential for undergraduate and postgraduate disability and social work students. -- Kwesi A. Kassah, University of Tromso
