*3.3.4 Perceptions of disability*

The results of the study also revealed that respondents share different perceptions of disability. Some of the respondents mentioned that disability can result in stigmatization, discrimination disrespect, loneliness, depression, and even suicide. Respondents agreed that when someone has a disability stigmatization and discrimination inevitably lead to depression, loneliness, and suicidal ideation. The study showed that respondents with such perceptions feel reluctant to seek healthcare for their wards with CP with the fear of being stigmatized and discriminated against. Some participants also mentioned that disability can be frustrating and lead to the loss of a job.

Participants believed that negative perception about disability may lead to less access to healthcare services for children with CP while the positive perception may lead to frequent access to healthcare services. Respondents with a negative perception of disability do not seek regular healthcare for their children with CP but rather go to seek spiritual healing for their wards with CP. Also, it was revealed that respondents with positive perceptions frequently seek healthcare for their children with CP.
