ABSTRACT
This study examined the causes and effects of stigmatization on children with hearing impairment in Benin City. Four research questions were raised to guide the study and the 4 questions were turned into hypotheses and tested at 0.05 level of significance.
The study used a descriptive survey research design, and a total 70 students were selected randomly from the total population for the study, the instrument for the study was titled “Investigate the causes and Effects of Stigmatization on Children with Hearing Impairment” (ICESCHI).The instrument was divided into two sections, Section A was used to collect demographic data while section B contained the respondents responses
The findings from the study revealed that stigmatization may not significantly impact the emotional and psychological well-being of children with hearing impairment. Children with hearing impairment in educational settings may not experience significant challenges in peer relationships and social integration due to stigmatization, Family dynamics and parental attitudes exacerbate stigmatization, highlighting the complexity of familial influences on children's experiences, Cultural beliefs and societal attitudes towards disabilities, may not significantly contribute to the prevalence and perpetuation of stigmatization against children with hearing impairment
The study shed light on the stigmatization experiences of children with hearing impairment and their implications for various aspects of their lives. Contrary to expectations based on the study, findings suggest that stigmatization may not have significant negative impacts on the emotional and psychological well-being, peer relationships, social integration, family dynamics, and parental attitudes of children with hearing impairment. Additionally, cultural beliefs and societal attitudes towards disabilities may not significantly influence the prevalence and perpetuation of stigmatization against these children.
It was recommended that Educational institutions should prioritize inclusive practices that facilitate the participation and integration of children with hearing impairment into mainstream settings. Parents and caregivers of children with hearing impairment should be provided with resources and support to enhance their understanding of hearing impairment and its impact on their children's lives. Efforts to challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about disabilities should be intensified through targeted community awareness campaigns
