Graduation Term

Spring 2026

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

School of Communication

Committee Chair

Lindsey Thomas

Committee Member

Lance Lippert

Committee Member

Peter Smudde

Abstract

The study explores the lived experiences of mothers raising children with disabilities in Ghana, West Africa. The purpose of the study is to understand mothers’ everyday caregiving realities, their experiences with social stigma, and the ways they build resilience. A semi-structured interview was conducted where a total of eleven Ghanaian mothers/caregivers were interviewed through phone calls, WhatsApp calls, and Zoom. The data were then analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis guide, which resulted in the development of five themes. The findings reveal that mothers’ experiences are shaped by continuous caregiving demands, financial strain, and deeply embedded cultural beliefs about disability. Participants described experiencing moral blame, name-calling, and social exclusion in public spaces. At the same time, mothers demonstrated resilience through faith, acceptance, peer support, and advocacy. This study contributes to health communication scholarship by demonstrating the importance of empathetic provider–caregiver communication, clear explanation of diagnoses, and culturally sensitive public messaging to reduce misinformation and social blame.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

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