From Primary to Secondary Victimization of a So-Called "Serpent" Child Living with Sickle Cell Disease

Kawit Yav Lucide, Katenda Kankokwe Cathy, Ali Luhembwe Ally, Luka Lumbeku Michel, Kasongo Maloba Tshikala Philippe

Abstract: This study aims to examine the forms of victimization experienced by so-called "serpent children" living with sickle cell disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), to analyze the social and familial impacts of their double stigmatization, and to propose culturally and community-based intervention strategies to promote inclusion, resilience, and well-being. Sickle cell disease, still poorly understood in DR Congo, is particularly stigmatized when affecting children born of rape, leading to compounded marginalization (Goffman, 1963). Perceived as a curse, the disease reinforces social exclusion, worsened by poverty and lack of healthcare. Based on a phenomenological approach, this study conducted in Lubumbashi explores the distress of a 4-year-old boy, O.G.E., born from rape and living with sickle cell disease. His psychological care combined emotional expression, pain management, and family support to foster resilience (Masten, 2014).

Keywords: Primary victimization, secondary victimization, sickle cell disease, serpent child, family resilience

How to Cite?: Kawit Yav Lucide, Katenda Kankokwe Cathy, Ali Luhembwe Ally, Luka Lumbeku Michel, Kasongo Maloba Tshikala Philippe, "From Primary to Secondary Victimization of a So-Called "Serpent" Child Living with Sickle Cell Disease", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1506-1512, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25605164706, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25605164706