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The Role of Social Capital in the Empowerment of Individuals with Visual Impairment: The Case of Antigua and Barbuda

James, Treasa M.

Abstract Details

2007, Master of Arts (MA), Ohio University, International Studies - International Development Studies.

This research paper examines the contributions that social capital makes to the development of individuals with visual impairment (IVIs) in Antigua and Barbuda. The research was mounted as case study to ascertain the existence, and extent of social capital vis-à-vis IVIs and explores four key determinants of social capital, namely, social inclusion, access to resources, reciprocity and cultural norms and values. The central idea of social capital is that social networks and relationships have economic value.

The methods employed in this study were qualitative and included open-ended in-depth interviews. The results of this study indicate that IVIs have diminished access to resources, limited and one-way social inclusion and experience a reality of rejection and illusionary contribution to the society. Founded on the premise that IVIs have a lessened capacity to build social capital, this study argues that IVIs in Antigua and Barbuda require the assistance of governments and civil society organizations to help them develop a sense of belonging and ownership of the shared resources of their country.

Francis Godwyll (Advisor)
146 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • James, T. M. (2007). The Role of Social Capital in the Empowerment of Individuals with Visual Impairment: The Case of Antigua and Barbuda [Master's thesis, Ohio University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1180881733

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • James, Treasa. The Role of Social Capital in the Empowerment of Individuals with Visual Impairment: The Case of Antigua and Barbuda. 2007. Ohio University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1180881733.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • James, Treasa. "The Role of Social Capital in the Empowerment of Individuals with Visual Impairment: The Case of Antigua and Barbuda." Master's thesis, Ohio University, 2007. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1180881733

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)