‘My other siblings are tall...’: An analysis of YouTube Videotaped interviews of adults with dwarfism about lived experiences and coping strategies

Abstract
Dwarfism is a rare genetic condition which results in short stature. While there is renewed interest to understand the well-being of persons living with dwarfisms in western contexts, limited attempt has been made to understand their living conditions in sub-Saharan African context. Globally and in Ghana, persons living with dwarfisms have a long history or association with the mass media as comedians, actors and entertainers. Using social model and critical disability theory as lenses, this study reviewed video-taped media interviews posted on YouTube in which persons with dwarfism discussed their lived experiences and living conditions. In all 23 video-taped interviews granted by 10 persons with dwarfism were reviewed, transcribed and thematized under four themes: feeling of being short, labeling, disrespect and humiliation, experiences at school and coping strategy. The study concludes with a recommendation for engagement between policymakers and persons living with dwarfism to understand their needs and skillsets required for participation in society and economic activities, respectively.