Cultural and Religious Beliefs and Practices Abusive to Children With Disabilities in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study sought to explore religious practices and beliefs that violate the rights of children with disabilities in Zimbabwe. The authors employed a qualitative approach in exploring cultural and religious beliefs and practices abusive to children with disabilities. Authors used exploratory-descriptive case study design and purposive sampling in selecting participants. Data collection took place in Dzivarasekwa, a high-density suburb in Harare among children who were receiving rehabilitation services at Harare Hospital and their caregivers. The study established that children with disabilities who come from some apostolic families are disadvantaged, as their parents believe that demonic spirits causes disability. This then leads to heightened levels of discrimination. The study also found out that there are remedial but harmful cultural and religious practices. The study recommends that rigorous awareness raising is needed for communities to support people with disabilities, formation of support groups amongst people with disabilities themselves, introducing holistic interventions that address issues of cultural and religious beliefs and continuous training for frontline workers to keep in touch with current best practices, policies and laws around disabilities.