Demographic Differences in Social Adaptability of Individuals with Blindness in Harare Metropolitan, Zimbabwe

This study aimed to assess the social adaptability of individuals with blindness in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe, using a quantitative approach. A total of 384 participants were selected through multistage sampling, with the sample size determined by Yamane’s formula. The study utilized a socio-demographic questionnaire and the Social Adaptation Self-Evaluation Scale (SASS) to gather quantitative data. Data analysis was conducted using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The t-test results showed a statistically significant difference in social adaptability between women and men, with women exhibiting better social adaptability (t = 2.35, p < 0.05). The ANOVA test indicated a significant difference in social adaptability based on age (F = 5.43, p < 0.01). ANOVA results showed a significant relationship between education level and social adaptability (F = 6.78, p < 0.001). The ANOVA test also revealed a significant difference in social adaptability based on religious background (F = 4.56, p < 0.05). Christians and individuals from other religious groups displayed better social adaptability than Muslims and Hindus. The ANOVA results indicated a small difference in social adaptability between those with congenital blindness and those who acquired blindness later in life. This difference was not statistically significant (F = 1.21, p > 0.05). This study demonstrates that gender, age, education, and religious background are significant factors influencing the social adaptability of individuals with blindness in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe.