IMPACT OF SELF-ADVOCACY SKILLS ON VALUED SOCIAL RELATIONSHIP AMONG VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADULTS IN KADUNA STATE

This study examines the impact of self-advocacy skills on valued social relationships among visually impaired adults in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Self-advocacy, which refers to the ability to assert one's needs, rights, and desires in a way that is both effective and respectful, has been linked to improved personal empowerment, social inclusion, and mental well-being. The research explores how visually impaired adults use self-advocacy skills in their social interactions and the extent to which these skills influence their relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and community members. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to collect data from visually impaired adults in various urban and rural areas within Kaduna State. Key variables include the participants' confidence in expressing their needs, their level of social integration, and the perceived quality of their social networks. Findings suggested that individuals with stronger self-advocacy skills report higher levels of satisfaction in their relationships and greater social participation. The study highlights the importance of training in self-advocacy for enhancing the social well-being of visually impaired adults and provides recommendations for policy and community interventions aimed at fostering social inclusion and support networks for this group.