Cultural Heritage, Identity Formation, And Creative Expression of Persons with Disabilities: A Qualitative Case Study

There is limited research on how cultural heritage and identity formation influence the creative expression of persons with disabilities. Guided by Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, this study used a case study approach to examine the implications of cultural heritage and identity formation on creative expression among persons with disabilities. Two research questions guided the study. Data were collected through semi-structured oral interviews with two purposively selected participants from Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria. Using an interpretivist paradigm, the data were analysed through thematic content analysis. Three major themes emerged: cultural belief systems and superstition, cultural awakening, and self-awareness. Findings revealed that the participants experienced traumatic psychosocial challenges linked to societal and cultural perceptions of disability, but they coped with these experiences through creative expression. The study highlights the importance of increasing awareness and sensitisation programmes aimed at demystifying the causes of disabilities, particularly among conservative Yoruba communities where traditional beliefs and close-knit cultural practices remain influential.