How is autism viewed in Nigeria?
Many decades ago, Nigerian children who were neurodivergent were viewed with limited understanding. It was thought that either the child or the parents were witches. That led to some negative views of autism and other neurodivergent conditions.
That idea involving witchcraft doesn’t hold any longer. But we still see the effects of it in our society. The average Nigerian who notices that their child may be autistic might first go into denial. The family might try to hide the child from the community and not associate with the child publicly.
With my nephew, it was hard. People told us all sorts of things. They would say his condition was caused by a spiritual attack. They would suggest that we take him to a spiritual leader for healing. That stigma has led to a lot of denial and so many negative perceptions. The main treatment in Nigeria and much of Africa right now is through accessible schools. The children receive therapeutic services and an education.
What is pet ownership like in Nigeria now?
There are more dogs and pet enthusiasts in Nigeria than when I was a child. I still wouldn’t say the average Nigerian is a dog person or even an animal person just yet. But more people are growing to love the idea of having a
Growing up in Nigeria, Sunday Agbonika always had a dog. One of these was a German shepherd named Skipper. Skipper did everything with his family, says Agbonika. But his experience …read more
Source:: Science Explores
