THE NEXUS BETWEEN SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND THE LIVED REALITIES OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN JOS NORTH LGA OF PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

Disability remains an important, still unexplored aspect of social inequality in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, where cultural norms and societal practices significantly shape the lived realities of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Despite legal frameworks advancing inclusion, stigma and discrimination persevere, limiting access to education, employment, and social involvement. This study examines how societal attitudes and behaviours formed the inclusion, exclusion, and well-being of PWDs in Jos North, exploring the coping strategies and community-based interventions they embrace to steer stigma and discrimination. Guided by the Social Model of Disability and Goffman’s Social Stigma Theory, the study utilized a qualitative design, specifically in-depth and key informant interviews with 58 participants, including PWDs, caregivers, and representatives of disability-focused organizations. The study reveals that negative stereotypes, exclusionary norms, and discriminatory behaviours substantially weaken social inclusion and psychological well-being. Nevertheless, PWDs utilized coping strategies such as peer support, reliance on faith, and engagement with NGOs. The study concludes that there is a need to address disability-related exclusion through sustaining public sensitization, enforcing disability rights, and economic empowerment initiatives, strengthening agency, and ensuring meaningful inclusion.