Perceived Discrimination and Other Factors Influencing Self-Esteem in Persons with Albinism in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

The deficiency of the photoprotective pigment in the skin of persons with albinism exposes them to various skin and eye disorders. Myths  about persons with albinism have arisen from ignorance of their unique looks, which has also led to stigmatisation and  discrimination of persons affected by the condition. These can affect individuals’ self-esteem and may have long-term psychological and  general well-being implications. A cross-sectional design was used to document the perceived discrimination against persons with  albinism in the Plateau State of North Central Nigeria and examine the relationship with self-esteem levels. Participants (N = 42)  completed the interviewer-based questionnaire centred on sources of support, avoidance, and abusive behaviour by others towards  them. The Rosenberg self-esteem scale was used to estimate self-esteem, and information was analysed using SPSS version 26.0. The  result showed more subjects were uncertain of fathers’ acceptance than mothers (11.9 % vs 0.4 %), while 16 (38.1 %) were discriminated  against by someone in a position of authority, 27 (64.3 %) had been verbally abused and 5 (9.5 %) physically abused on account of  albinism. Challenges causing dissatisfaction were mainly financial, exposure to lack of protection from the sun and stigma. Self-esteem  level was associated with the level of education, place of residence, the uncertainty of acceptance by the father, avoidance by peers, and  being verbally abused. These findings serve as a baseline in advocating for policies to address stigma and discrimination against persons  with albinism within communities while developing programs that aid in building their self-esteem.