Subjective well-being among women with disabilities

Abstract

Women with disabilities are individuals who have double vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities are arguably resulting from their condition as disabled persons and their status as a woman. Both women with innate disabilities factors and accident factors have a similarly negative view of their condition. This study aimed to describe subjective well-being in women with disabilities. The research method used was qualitative phenomenology. The data was obtained through semi-structured interviews. This study included six women with disabilities (visually impaired), aged between 20 to 30 years who lived in Yogyakarta and status as a graduate student. The data from interviews were analyzed with thematic analysis. The results showed that subjective well-being in women with disabilities was influenced by cognitive component (life satisfaction), which was indicated by self-acceptance, positive social relations, and perceived gratitude. Besides, the affective component also played a role. This component included positive affect, which was indicated by a sense of attention that the participant received, a feeling of excitement, pleasure, and a feeling of pride. Negative affect was indicated by feelings of sadness because of past negative relationships and feelings of disappointment.