DefinePK

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of child abuse and neglect in different aspects of life; academic, social, emotional, and psychological among students with visual impairment. Child abuse and neglect also impact the mental health of students with visual impairment. People in society abuse them due to their disability that leads to stress, trauma and mental sickness. This is qualitative research. The sample of the study is 15 students with visual impairment studying at college and university level. Purposive sampling technique used to conduct this research. Self-made questionnaire is used for qualitative study. Data was collected from the colleges and universities of different cities of Punjab that was analyzed through content analysis by generating codes and themes. The result of this study is that child abuse and emotional neglect has strong impact on the life of children with visual impairment. Child abuse and neglect disturb the academic progress, social life, and personality of the students with visual impairment and it is high in male students. It was found that they are neglected by families and community that disturb their mental health and leads to trauma. It effects their self-esteem and confidence level. Many reported they talk less and stay reserve in their institution and workplace. In conclusion, abuse and neglect that visually impaired students face from their fellows, teachers, families and society have great impact on their mental health. It disturbs the academic and social life of students and also impacts long term. So, there is need to provide support and assistance with parenting skills to families, especially families who have children with visual impairment to overcome the risk of child abuse.