Abstract:
The rights of persons affected by leprosy (PALs) have been violated over the years
and it appears policies and measures put in place to protect them have not been
working. The specific objective of this study is to determine the extent of
stigmatisation and discrimination against PALs. This thesis seeks to find out the
factors and effects of stigma and discrimination and how public institutions are
accessible to PALs. It further seeks to determine the relationship that exists between
administrators, nurses, family members and persons affected by leprosy. A qualitative
approach and a case study design were adopted for the study. Sixteen (16)
respondents were selected; which included PALs, administrator, nurses and family
members of PALs. The analysis of the qualitative data from respondents and other
related materials reveal that curse, deformity, body odour, perception about the
disease, derogatory names and fear of contracting the disease were identified as major
factors of stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy. The study
also found out that the rights to education, health and employment of PALs are
denied. Apart from these, right to marriage, family, social security and standard of
living of PALs have been negatively affected. The relationship between PALs and
their family members is poor while the relationship between nurses, administrator and
PALs is cordial. It is recommended that; counseling services should be freely
provided to all PALs and their family members, special schools for the PALs have to
be established by the state, independent institution for example the ‘Ghana Disability
Authority’ for Persons with Disability has to be established to promote and protect the
interest of members including persons affected by leprosy.
Description:
A THESIS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION,
FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF
RESEARCH AND GRADUATE STUDIES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF
EDUCATION, WINNEBA, IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY
DEGREE IN HUMAN RIGHTS
OCTOBER, 2016