The Social and Economic Situation of People with Special Needs in Soran Independent Administration

Abstract

This study explores the social and economic conditions of people with disabilities, with a particular focus on individuals with physical impairments, and examines how they strive to meet their basic needs. The research draws on Erving Goffman’s theory of social stigma and Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to better understand their lived experiences.

A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews for data collection. The study was conducted in Soran City, utilizing a non-random snowball sampling method to identify participants. In total, 15 individuals with physical disabilities, 7 female and 8 male were interviewed.The findings reveal that the social environment for individuals with disabilities is often marked by exclusion, pity, and unequal treatment. They are frequently marginalized and excluded from social participation. Economically, participants face significant challenges due to limited employment opportunities linked to their physical conditions. With an average monthly income of only 150,000 Iraqi dinars, meeting even basic needs proves extremely difficult.