The Relationship Between Self-Concept and Social Adaptability of People with Blindness in Harare Metropolitan Province

This study aimed to determine the relationship between self-concept and adaptability of people with blindness in Harare Metropolitan province, Zimbabwe. People with blindness have a wide range of self-concepts just like sighted people and their experiences may impact their in unique ways. Some people with blindness may have a strong sense of identity and pride in their blindness while others may struggle with feelings of inadequacy or social isolation. The main objective of this study was to determine the relationship between self-concept and social adaptability of people with blindness in Harare Metropolitan province. The research question for the study was stated as follows: What is the relationship between self-concept and social adaptability of people with blindness in Harare Metropolitan province? The study embraced a mixed approach specifically an explanatory sequential design was used and it was grounded on Social cognitive theory by Albert Bandura. The study targeted people with visual impairment in Harare Metropolitan province in Zimbabwe. The researcher used Yamane formula obtain the sample size of 384 participants. Quantitative data was collected using a Robson Self-Concept questionnaire. An interview guide was also used to collect qualitative data. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The findings of the study indicated that, there was a negative correlation analysis between self-concept and social adaptability among people with blindness unveiled a notable negative correlation, indicating that individuals with a more positive self-concept tend to display lower levels of social adaptability, and vice versa. The correlation coefficient denoted a moderate negative relationship between self-concept and social adaptability. The study also recommends that the relationship between self-concept and social adaptability of people with blindness in Harare Metropolitan province should be enhanced through: Educational opportunities and assistive technologies. Access to assistive technologies can significantly enhance social interaction and independence for individuals with blindness..