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Table 2 Explanatory models and types of possessing spirits

From: Unravelling the spirits’ message: a study of help-seeking steps and explanatory models among patients suffering from spirit possession in Uganda

 

Explanatory model

 
 

Ritual neglect

Neglected responsibilities

Jealousy

Call to become a healer

Land conflict

Death of dear one

Spirits no clear reason

TOTAL type of spirit

Type of spirit

n

%

n

%

n

%

n

%

n

%

n

%

n

%

n

%

Bachwezi (demi-gods)

20

59%

-

-

-

-

11

92%

-

-

-

-

-

-

31

26%

Omuzimu (ancestral spirits)

13

38%

22

73%

-

-

1

8%

8

67%

11

100%

3

50%

58

49%

Witchcraft a

1

3%

8

27%

14

100%

-

-

4

33%

-

-

3

50%

30

25%

TOTAL expl. model

34

29%

30

25%

14

12%

12

10%

12

10%

11

9%

6

5%

119

100%

  1. aWitchcraft, e.g. initiated by neighbour or co-wife.
  2. Note: Chi-square (12, 119) = 120.28, p < .001.