DETERMINING GENDER IDENTITY AMONG BENEFICIARIES OF THE CENTER “TEN QOGAM”

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a sociological study conducted at the "TEN QOGAM" social support center in Almaty in late 2022. The study examines the interplay between gender and disability, existing gender attitudes and stereotypes among the center's beneficiaries, as well as the challenges hindering individuals with special needs from full inclusion in an inclusive society. Qualitative research methods, including focus groups and expert interviews, were employed in this study. Three focus groups were conducted with beneficiaries of the "TEN QOGAM" center.

Gender plays a significant role in the successful inclusion of people with disabilities in an inclusive society. The study documented the existence of stigmatization of individuals with disabilities by society. The implementation of an inclusive society is constrained by various issues, including those related to values and traditions, resource limitations, and organizational challenges. The lack of both quantitative and qualitative research on the gender identity of individuals with disabilities, as well as the absence of accessible representative data, restricts the comprehensive and multi-level approaches to studying this subject.

The findings underscore the importance of collaboration between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and social support entities.