Disabilities in Tapiete and Guarani Children and Young People: Analysis of Community Practices and Knowledge

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Disability is usually analyzed using Western concepts without posing the question of how physical, intellectual and emotional alterations are understood and dealt with in other societies. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the knowledge and practices regarding disability in indigenous children of peri-urban communities in Salta, exploring at the same time the relation of these populations with the public health system. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using a descriptive comparative design. The target population was composed by parents and family members of disabled children (0-14 years old), physicians and health staff. The sample was intentional, and data were gathered through semistructured interviews and participant observation. RESULTS: The research showed that these indigenous communities relate the causes of disability in children to the violation of social norms and taboos, changing patterns used by the public health system to approach the problem. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between these populations and public health effectors, and the different explanatory models of both actors regarding health-disease-care process have influence on the prevention and early treatment of poverty-related diseases, that increase the risk of disability in children.