To Examine the Psychosocial Challenges and Coping Strategies Among Persons with Albinism in Tanzania:A Case of Temeke Municipal Council

This study attempted to examine the psychosocial challenges and the coping strategies among Persons with Albinism in Tanzania. The specific objectives based on challenges, attitudes, beliefs and coping strategies being employed by people with albinism. Study adopted quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection from Tanzania Association of Albinism, Traditional Healers Association, Social workers, parents and guardians who have children with albinism and People with Albinism through Self-administered questionnaire. However, the literature also discovered and indicated several effects, challenges and negative attitudes prevailing in the society in regard of Albinism and people with Albinism. The challenges range from structural to institutional in social services provision, human Rights violation and economic, emotional and psychological vulnerability of people with Albinism in Tanzania. The study found that there was positive significance relationship between society education, myths, traditions and beliefs that had keen to negative attitudes towards Albinism. It was noted that they also employ several coping strategies in absorbing the society neglecting situation. However, the effectiveness was found to be questionable and revealed to be temporary solving their psychosocial, emotional, depression and emotional effects. Furthermore, the study insisted on the education in abolition of cultural beliefs that contribute to the killings of people with albinism for dangerous myths and superstitions. Policy wise, the policy formulation should be participatory for effective implementation. There was a need of extensive research/surveys to determine how the People with Albinism cope with these psychosocial challenges associating to improve their coping strategies.

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

The Open University of Tanzania

Year dc:date.issued

2016

Author dc:creator

• Nzelwa, Sarah Richard

• 360 Social services; association

Language dc:language

en