Caregiving for autistic children in Nigeria: experiences and challenges.

Albright Obinna Azubuike, Precious Chidozie Azubuike, Ayobami Oyekunle Afape, Michael Obule Enyam, Temidayo Akinreni, Uchenna Frank Imo, Miracle Nwadiche, Chimankpam Kingsley Ogbonna, Promise Nmesomachi Timothy, Eberechukwu Ruth Uchegbu, George Sefa Adai
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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background: Raising autistic children poses a daunting task for their caregivers. Providing care may take a toll on caregivers' physical, psychological, social, and financial wellbeing. This study explored the experience of the responsibility of care among caregivers of autistic children in Nigeria and informed targeted psychosocial support interventions.

Methods: This phenomenology qualitative study was conducted among 103 caregivers in Cross River, Nigeria. The PREPARE tool was used for the data collection. Data were analyzed using the inductive and deductive approaches qualitatively, using NVivo software.

Results: Stigma and misunderstanding of autism, emotional impact and acceptance, transportation and accessibility, lack of support networks, and balancing responsibilities and care responsibilities with personal commitments were the major challenges reported by our participants. These factors contributed to emotional strain, underscoring the complexities associated with caregiving experiences.

Conclusion: Given the significant responsibilities of caregivers, targeted intervention must be taken to properly enlighten Nigerian societies on autistic people, and the need for acceptance. Key stakeholders must provide suitable healthcare facilities and resources for autistic people. Also, social support groups would help establish a sense of belonging and support.

尼日利亚对自闭症儿童的照顾:经验与挑战。
背景:抚养自闭症儿童对他们的照顾者来说是一项艰巨的任务。提供护理可能会对护理者的身体、心理、社会和经济健康造成损害。本研究探讨了尼日利亚自闭症儿童护理人员的护理责任经验,并告知有针对性的社会心理支持干预措施。方法:对尼日利亚克罗斯河103名护理人员进行现象学定性研究。使用PREPARE工具收集数据。使用NVivo软件,采用归纳和演绎的方法对数据进行定性分析。结果:自闭症的污名和误解、情绪影响和接受、交通和可达性、缺乏支持网络、平衡责任和照顾责任与个人承诺是参与者报告的主要挑战。这些因素导致了情绪紧张,强调了与护理经历相关的复杂性。结论:鉴于照顾者的重大责任,必须采取有针对性的干预措施,以适当地启发尼日利亚社会对自闭症患者的认识,以及接受自闭症的必要性。关键利益攸关方必须为自闭症患者提供适当的医疗设施和资源。此外,社会支持团体将有助于建立归属感和支持感。
本文章由计算机程序翻译,如有差异,请以英文原文为准。
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CiteScore
1.90
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