A discourse analysis of the construction of gendered relationships in grade 10-12 Life Orientation textbooks in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Adams, Luvo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sex instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Life skills -- Study and teaching (Secondary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5532 , vital:29315
- Description: School-based sexuality education has been the subject of research in the social sciences and pedagogical spheres globally. In South Africa, growing interest among social scientists in the topic, were ignited by the introduction of sexuality education as a compulsory part of Life Orientation (LO) by the late 1990s. However, the implementation of LO has been problematic. Reviewed literature in the current study, reveals how the dominance of the heterosex discourse is foregrounded in LO content on gender and sexuality. The current study was aimed at examining the construction of gendered relationships in LO textbooks. The study sampled LO textbooks for Grades 10-12, learners in these grades are between the mean ages 16-18 years. This group is the target group, because they are legally afforded the right to consent to sexual activity with peers, within the same age bracket. Conducted from a social constructionist perspective, the current study employed qualitative methods of inquiry (textual analysis). Against the backdrop of heterosexuality as norm, it was the aim of the current study to understand the subject positions made available for female learners to construct themselves, within the discursive spaces in LO content. Findings suggest that two discourses namely: the heterosex discourse and the discourse of danger and disease, dominate in LO content on gender and sexuality. This leads to the construction of gendered relationships a s inherently heterosexual, leading to the marginalisation of relationships that fall outside of the norm. The female learner is positioned as a passive-victim, incapable of exercising sexual agency, while young men are positioned as inherently more powerful members of the intimate relationships or dangerous sexual predators. In the discourse of danger and disease, she is also positioned as a potential victim but the focus is on equipping her with skills, in a way which positioned her as an active-resistor in refusing sexual activity; and being in control of decision-making on issues of safety in relationships. The implications of these contradictions, is that they focus on the individual and disallow her taking up of sexual agency, and disregard the context in which she has to do so.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Adams, Luvo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sex instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Life skills -- Study and teaching (Secondary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5532 , vital:29315
- Description: School-based sexuality education has been the subject of research in the social sciences and pedagogical spheres globally. In South Africa, growing interest among social scientists in the topic, were ignited by the introduction of sexuality education as a compulsory part of Life Orientation (LO) by the late 1990s. However, the implementation of LO has been problematic. Reviewed literature in the current study, reveals how the dominance of the heterosex discourse is foregrounded in LO content on gender and sexuality. The current study was aimed at examining the construction of gendered relationships in LO textbooks. The study sampled LO textbooks for Grades 10-12, learners in these grades are between the mean ages 16-18 years. This group is the target group, because they are legally afforded the right to consent to sexual activity with peers, within the same age bracket. Conducted from a social constructionist perspective, the current study employed qualitative methods of inquiry (textual analysis). Against the backdrop of heterosexuality as norm, it was the aim of the current study to understand the subject positions made available for female learners to construct themselves, within the discursive spaces in LO content. Findings suggest that two discourses namely: the heterosex discourse and the discourse of danger and disease, dominate in LO content on gender and sexuality. This leads to the construction of gendered relationships a s inherently heterosexual, leading to the marginalisation of relationships that fall outside of the norm. The female learner is positioned as a passive-victim, incapable of exercising sexual agency, while young men are positioned as inherently more powerful members of the intimate relationships or dangerous sexual predators. In the discourse of danger and disease, she is also positioned as a potential victim but the focus is on equipping her with skills, in a way which positioned her as an active-resistor in refusing sexual activity; and being in control of decision-making on issues of safety in relationships. The implications of these contradictions, is that they focus on the individual and disallow her taking up of sexual agency, and disregard the context in which she has to do so.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An investigation of the contribution of street vending on livelihoods : case of street vendors in Nkonkobe Municipality
- Authors: Dube, Thulani
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Street vendors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Economic conditions Vending stands -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6068 , vital:29488
- Description: The informal sector thrives in a context of high unemployment, underemployment, poverty, gender inequality and precarious work. It plays a significant role in such circumstances, especially in income generation and in contributing to the livelihood of those engaged in it. The study investigated the contribution of street vending to the livelihood of street vendors in Nkonkobe Municipality. The aim of the study was to investigate whether street vending has the potential to sustain the lives of those engaged in it. In order to reach its objectives, the study employed a qualitative research approach whereby a non-probability sampling design in the form of a purposive sampling method was adopted and considered appropriate for this study. In terms of data collection, the study made use of structured questionnaires as a data collection method whereby questionnaires were administered and distributed to 40 street venders. The Upper Bound Poverty Line (UBPL) was used as a measurement to assess whether the participants’ incomes were above the poverty datum line in order to determine the sector’s contribution to the traders’ livelihood. From this study, it was found that street vending has both positive and negative impacts with regard to the success and profit-earning potential of these traders. Thus, the study concluded that street vending is a vital community development tool and a major source of livelihood as it plays a very important socio-economic role in Nkonkobe and in South Africa in general. The sector provides a livelihood for a huge population mainly comprised of the poor and other impoverished groups of society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dube, Thulani
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Street vendors -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Economic conditions Vending stands -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6068 , vital:29488
- Description: The informal sector thrives in a context of high unemployment, underemployment, poverty, gender inequality and precarious work. It plays a significant role in such circumstances, especially in income generation and in contributing to the livelihood of those engaged in it. The study investigated the contribution of street vending to the livelihood of street vendors in Nkonkobe Municipality. The aim of the study was to investigate whether street vending has the potential to sustain the lives of those engaged in it. In order to reach its objectives, the study employed a qualitative research approach whereby a non-probability sampling design in the form of a purposive sampling method was adopted and considered appropriate for this study. In terms of data collection, the study made use of structured questionnaires as a data collection method whereby questionnaires were administered and distributed to 40 street venders. The Upper Bound Poverty Line (UBPL) was used as a measurement to assess whether the participants’ incomes were above the poverty datum line in order to determine the sector’s contribution to the traders’ livelihood. From this study, it was found that street vending has both positive and negative impacts with regard to the success and profit-earning potential of these traders. Thus, the study concluded that street vending is a vital community development tool and a major source of livelihood as it plays a very important socio-economic role in Nkonkobe and in South Africa in general. The sector provides a livelihood for a huge population mainly comprised of the poor and other impoverished groups of society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Community attitudes on differences between therapeutic interventions offered by traditional healers and biomedics in combatting HIV/AIDS. The case of Dimbaza township
- Authors: Duda, Bathandwa Zimkhitha
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape AIDS (Disease)-- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12788 , vital:39361
- Description: The researcher attempted to investigate and assess the attitudes about therapeutic interventions of traditional healers and bio medics which throw PLWHA into confusion in regards to their health. People living with the virus tend to use both therapies in tandem, yet the rate of HIV/AIDS is escalating in South Africa. This study sought to explore the community attitudes about traditional healing and bio- medics in treating HIV/AIDS. The study used a qualitative approach with explorative and descriptive in designs and a case study as the specific research design. It was also guided by a qualitative research paradigm. For data collection, the study employed in-depth interviews, focus groups and document analysis. The study used non-probability methodology of sample selection, but specifically, snow ball sampling was used to reach to twenty (20) participants; who comprised 6 community members, 6 people living with HIV/AIDS, 4 nurses and 4 traditional healers. Data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study came up with the following findings: lack of faith in traditional healers and their therapies; traditional healers put the PLWHA’s health at stake; cultural beliefs and faith systems’ conformity prompts PLWHA to use healer’s concoctions; ARVs passes the litmus test as a perfect medication in treating PLWHA; ARVs administration fosters good behaviour change; the side effects of the use of ARVs usher in an opportunity to spread the disease; health care workers are source of inspiration in combating stigma; traditional healers’ therapeutic modalities are dangerous to the health of the PLWHA; traditional healers hoodwink societies that HIV/AIDS is a spiritual disease and use of traditional medication in treatment of various ailments supported. The study recommended the following; Scientific researchers need to shed more light on the concurrent use of traditional and bio-medical therapy in managing HIV; World Health Organization need to develop campaigns on the use of African and Western therapies in treating HIV/AIDS; Ongoing training of traditional healers regarding health care practise need to be enforced; Promote cultural methods as a vehicle for prevention strategies to prevent and manage HIV/AIDS and referral of clients to the hospital by traditional healers. Recommendations for social workers; Community based campaigns in managing and preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and Empower, educate and monitor traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Duda, Bathandwa Zimkhitha
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape AIDS (Disease)-- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12788 , vital:39361
- Description: The researcher attempted to investigate and assess the attitudes about therapeutic interventions of traditional healers and bio medics which throw PLWHA into confusion in regards to their health. People living with the virus tend to use both therapies in tandem, yet the rate of HIV/AIDS is escalating in South Africa. This study sought to explore the community attitudes about traditional healing and bio- medics in treating HIV/AIDS. The study used a qualitative approach with explorative and descriptive in designs and a case study as the specific research design. It was also guided by a qualitative research paradigm. For data collection, the study employed in-depth interviews, focus groups and document analysis. The study used non-probability methodology of sample selection, but specifically, snow ball sampling was used to reach to twenty (20) participants; who comprised 6 community members, 6 people living with HIV/AIDS, 4 nurses and 4 traditional healers. Data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study came up with the following findings: lack of faith in traditional healers and their therapies; traditional healers put the PLWHA’s health at stake; cultural beliefs and faith systems’ conformity prompts PLWHA to use healer’s concoctions; ARVs passes the litmus test as a perfect medication in treating PLWHA; ARVs administration fosters good behaviour change; the side effects of the use of ARVs usher in an opportunity to spread the disease; health care workers are source of inspiration in combating stigma; traditional healers’ therapeutic modalities are dangerous to the health of the PLWHA; traditional healers hoodwink societies that HIV/AIDS is a spiritual disease and use of traditional medication in treatment of various ailments supported. The study recommended the following; Scientific researchers need to shed more light on the concurrent use of traditional and bio-medical therapy in managing HIV; World Health Organization need to develop campaigns on the use of African and Western therapies in treating HIV/AIDS; Ongoing training of traditional healers regarding health care practise need to be enforced; Promote cultural methods as a vehicle for prevention strategies to prevent and manage HIV/AIDS and referral of clients to the hospital by traditional healers. Recommendations for social workers; Community based campaigns in managing and preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and Empower, educate and monitor traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges : a case study of Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre Queenstown Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Fulani, Anathi Simnikiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work Behavior modification Behaviorism (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9853 , vital:35072
- Description: This research study explored and examined the psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges, at Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly to investigate the effects of behaviour modification programmes on children, secondly to investigate the challenges faced by children who are on behaviour modification programmes, thirdly examine the support systems available from the social networks of the children, and lastly, to examine the intervention strategies provided by professionals. The researcher adopted a qualitative research method as it provides for an in-depth understanding of the research topic furthermore qualitative research provides for a more thick, descriptive, and detailed, interpersonal research findings which perfectly aliens with the psycho-social understandings and human centred research findings as compared to the more numerical and statistic producing results of a more quantitative study. The study employed an array of qualitative research methods including but not limited to in-depth interviews, open ended questions group discussions and sessions and observations. The study has been underpinned by both the social learning and behavioural theory respectively. The population in this study was made up of fifteen participants. The participants come from different towns in the Eastern Cape. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method specifically purposive technique. The data was analysed using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way. A collection of psycho - social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges in Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre were the study outcomes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Fulani, Anathi Simnikiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work Behavior modification Behaviorism (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9853 , vital:35072
- Description: This research study explored and examined the psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges, at Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly to investigate the effects of behaviour modification programmes on children, secondly to investigate the challenges faced by children who are on behaviour modification programmes, thirdly examine the support systems available from the social networks of the children, and lastly, to examine the intervention strategies provided by professionals. The researcher adopted a qualitative research method as it provides for an in-depth understanding of the research topic furthermore qualitative research provides for a more thick, descriptive, and detailed, interpersonal research findings which perfectly aliens with the psycho-social understandings and human centred research findings as compared to the more numerical and statistic producing results of a more quantitative study. The study employed an array of qualitative research methods including but not limited to in-depth interviews, open ended questions group discussions and sessions and observations. The study has been underpinned by both the social learning and behavioural theory respectively. The population in this study was made up of fifteen participants. The participants come from different towns in the Eastern Cape. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method specifically purposive technique. The data was analysed using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way. A collection of psycho - social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges in Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre were the study outcomes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
A hermeneutic phenominological study of the understanding and treatment of Amafufunyana by traditional healers
- Authors: Gqibitole, Camagwini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Traditional medicine Healers Mental illness -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5521 , vital:29313
- Description: Traditional healers have a different understanding of psychological illnesses to the western paradigm as well as a different way of diagnosing and treating psychological illnesses. Aims and Objectives. This study’s aim is to examine how traditional healers understand the causes of mental illness mainly focusing on amafufunyana and how this understanding informs treatments methods. Method. This has been done based on hermeneutic phenomenology by drawing from the lived experience of traditional healers through a focus group interview. Results. Upon analysis of the data it becomes clear that traditional healers understand the aetiology of amafufunyana to be supernatural forces. Amafufunyana present in overt and covert symptoms and the diagnostic process entails connecting with the ancestors for their guidance and confirmation of diagnosis, as well as guidance on which imithi to use. The treatment process is congruent with the diagnostic process as it also entails guidance from the ancestors on which imithi to use. Other valuable aspects of traditional healing were brought forward while conducting this study. The aspect of protection from the ancestors was emphasised. It became evident in the analysis of this study that the rituals that are performed in order to appease the ancestors facilitate the connection to the ancestors and through maintaining this connect one can be protected from an array of illnesses and misfortunes. Recommendations. It is recommended that recommended that more studies are conducted with traditional healers in order to give them an opportunity to elaborate on their lived experience of healing, as it was observed that a majority of literature speak on behalf of traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gqibitole, Camagwini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Traditional medicine Healers Mental illness -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5521 , vital:29313
- Description: Traditional healers have a different understanding of psychological illnesses to the western paradigm as well as a different way of diagnosing and treating psychological illnesses. Aims and Objectives. This study’s aim is to examine how traditional healers understand the causes of mental illness mainly focusing on amafufunyana and how this understanding informs treatments methods. Method. This has been done based on hermeneutic phenomenology by drawing from the lived experience of traditional healers through a focus group interview. Results. Upon analysis of the data it becomes clear that traditional healers understand the aetiology of amafufunyana to be supernatural forces. Amafufunyana present in overt and covert symptoms and the diagnostic process entails connecting with the ancestors for their guidance and confirmation of diagnosis, as well as guidance on which imithi to use. The treatment process is congruent with the diagnostic process as it also entails guidance from the ancestors on which imithi to use. Other valuable aspects of traditional healing were brought forward while conducting this study. The aspect of protection from the ancestors was emphasised. It became evident in the analysis of this study that the rituals that are performed in order to appease the ancestors facilitate the connection to the ancestors and through maintaining this connect one can be protected from an array of illnesses and misfortunes. Recommendations. It is recommended that recommended that more studies are conducted with traditional healers in order to give them an opportunity to elaborate on their lived experience of healing, as it was observed that a majority of literature speak on behalf of traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Impediments to the implementation of employee health and wellness policy : a study of Social Development - Eastern Cape, Amathole District
- Authors: Lutuli, Nondwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Health education|xGovernment policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5473 , vital:29269
- Description: The White paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery no 1459 of 1997 stipulates that the wellbeing of employees needs to be accounted for. A directive to have employee health and wellness programmes established in all government departments was given by the director-general of the Department Public Service Administration in 2008. The Employee health and wellness programme is aimed at promoting and improving employee wellbeing, which is also linked to organizational wellness. The primary aim of the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is to make a positive contribution towards maximum employee productivity and effectiveness in the workplace. Employee health assessment conducted by the Department of Social Development in 2006 and 2009 confirmed that South African organizations, including the Department of Social Development, experience high levels of employee poor health. Studies suggest that both employees and the employers need to pay attention to the improvement of employee health and wellness. In 2012, an integrated employee health and wellness policy was developed to improve the Department of Social Development employee wellness. The interest to conduct the study emanates from the researcher‟s own supposition that the policy has not been fully implemented, this deduction is based on the fact that, although the policy has four critical focus areas, some of these areas, such as counselling, are not rendered. Literature reviewed includes the process of policy implementation and description of employee health and wellness, benefits of employee health and wellness programme for both employees and employer. A mixed method study was conducted to explore the implementation of the employee health and wellness policy as a strategy to improve both employee and organizational wellness within the Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape - Amathole District. The population of the study included both DSD management and non-managerial employees from Amathole District; the study also includes the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Amathole District Municipality and South African Police Service (Mdantsane). Themes that were identified from qualitative data through semi- structured interviews by means of audio-recorder were triangulated through questionnaires and document analysis. Since the policy came into effect in 2012, results show that the implementation has been confronted with a number of challenges which include lack of support from the top management. Lack of buy in by DSD management has serious implications on the policy objectives; these include the inadequate distribution of capital, human and physical resources necessary to implement the policy. In order for the DSD to improve the implementation of employee health and wellness policy, the management needs to ensure that there is adequate provision of human and capital resources. Employees should be well-informed on policy guidelines and procedures and benefits to stimulate maximum utilisation. A decentralisation of implementation to Area offices is necessary to promote accessibility of services and prevent unnecessary delays in service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lutuli, Nondwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Health education|xGovernment policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5473 , vital:29269
- Description: The White paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery no 1459 of 1997 stipulates that the wellbeing of employees needs to be accounted for. A directive to have employee health and wellness programmes established in all government departments was given by the director-general of the Department Public Service Administration in 2008. The Employee health and wellness programme is aimed at promoting and improving employee wellbeing, which is also linked to organizational wellness. The primary aim of the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is to make a positive contribution towards maximum employee productivity and effectiveness in the workplace. Employee health assessment conducted by the Department of Social Development in 2006 and 2009 confirmed that South African organizations, including the Department of Social Development, experience high levels of employee poor health. Studies suggest that both employees and the employers need to pay attention to the improvement of employee health and wellness. In 2012, an integrated employee health and wellness policy was developed to improve the Department of Social Development employee wellness. The interest to conduct the study emanates from the researcher‟s own supposition that the policy has not been fully implemented, this deduction is based on the fact that, although the policy has four critical focus areas, some of these areas, such as counselling, are not rendered. Literature reviewed includes the process of policy implementation and description of employee health and wellness, benefits of employee health and wellness programme for both employees and employer. A mixed method study was conducted to explore the implementation of the employee health and wellness policy as a strategy to improve both employee and organizational wellness within the Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape - Amathole District. The population of the study included both DSD management and non-managerial employees from Amathole District; the study also includes the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Amathole District Municipality and South African Police Service (Mdantsane). Themes that were identified from qualitative data through semi- structured interviews by means of audio-recorder were triangulated through questionnaires and document analysis. Since the policy came into effect in 2012, results show that the implementation has been confronted with a number of challenges which include lack of support from the top management. Lack of buy in by DSD management has serious implications on the policy objectives; these include the inadequate distribution of capital, human and physical resources necessary to implement the policy. In order for the DSD to improve the implementation of employee health and wellness policy, the management needs to ensure that there is adequate provision of human and capital resources. Employees should be well-informed on policy guidelines and procedures and benefits to stimulate maximum utilisation. A decentralisation of implementation to Area offices is necessary to promote accessibility of services and prevent unnecessary delays in service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perceptions of adolescents and professional on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in Bisho child and youth care facilities, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Magoqwana, Yandiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social problems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12970 , vital:39412
- Description: This research explored the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The researcher cross examined the challenges faced by adolescent in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. The research study aimed to explore the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. The study was premised by three objectives, firstly to examine the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in the Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. Secondly to investigate the behavioural problems experienced by adolescents in the Bisho Youth Care Centre. Thirdly to examine the kind of support provided by professionals like Social workers, Educators, Professional Nurse, Bricklaying Instructor , Child and Youth Care Worker Supervisor and Child and Youth Care Worker . The researcher used qualitative method because it provides a deep understanding of
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Magoqwana, Yandiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social problems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12970 , vital:39412
- Description: This research explored the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The researcher cross examined the challenges faced by adolescent in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. The research study aimed to explore the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. The study was premised by three objectives, firstly to examine the perceptions of adolescents and professionals on the psycho-social challenges faced by adolescents in the Bisho Child and Youth Care Centre. Secondly to investigate the behavioural problems experienced by adolescents in the Bisho Youth Care Centre. Thirdly to examine the kind of support provided by professionals like Social workers, Educators, Professional Nurse, Bricklaying Instructor , Child and Youth Care Worker Supervisor and Child and Youth Care Worker . The researcher used qualitative method because it provides a deep understanding of
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Experience and realities of unemployed youth in Kieskammahoek, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makapela, Lubabalo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Unemployed youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5336 , vital:29199
- Description: This study examines the experiences and realities of unemployed youths in Keiskammahoek, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. It looks at the challenges are that experienced by unemployed youths in Keiskammahoek, an area which already has high volume of unemployment. It also explores the factors that account for unemployment amongst the youths in this area. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and the data was collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. Purposive sampling was utilised to collect data from 22 participants who included the rural youths, professionals and decision-makers. The findings of this study reveal that the majority of youths are unskilled and are not easily absorbed in different sectors of the economy. This study recommends that the government needs to target and maximize programmes that are supported by social and economic policies for young people’s benefit in order to alleviate the youth unemployment challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Makapela, Lubabalo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Unemployed youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5336 , vital:29199
- Description: This study examines the experiences and realities of unemployed youths in Keiskammahoek, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. It looks at the challenges are that experienced by unemployed youths in Keiskammahoek, an area which already has high volume of unemployment. It also explores the factors that account for unemployment amongst the youths in this area. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and the data was collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. Purposive sampling was utilised to collect data from 22 participants who included the rural youths, professionals and decision-makers. The findings of this study reveal that the majority of youths are unskilled and are not easily absorbed in different sectors of the economy. This study recommends that the government needs to target and maximize programmes that are supported by social and economic policies for young people’s benefit in order to alleviate the youth unemployment challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The experiences of young adults raised in single-parent families in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Makoni, Mavis
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Single-parent families , Children of single parents Young adults
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5292 , vital:29184
- Description: Although the single-parent family is becoming an increasingly common family structure, it is associated with a great many hardships. Owing to the heavy responsibilities which fall on single parents, most fail to meet all of the needs of their children, particularly with respect to the financial needs which are entailed by providing educational necessities, safe, stable and permanent accommodation, adequate food and nutrition and healthcare. This study adopted the parental loss perspective, the economic hardship perspective and the interparental conflict perspective in investigating the experiences of young adults who were raised in single-parent families. A qualitative approach was adopted to conduct the research and data was collected from 26 male and female participants between the ages of 22 and 39 years who resided within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The researcher sought permission to conduct this study from all the community leaders including the councillors and chiefs, thereby acquiring the first referrals. The study made use of purposive sampling and snowballing to select the research sample. The data was collected by using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions and analysed through the use of thematic analysis. The principal findings of the study indicate that although children who are raised in single-parent homes can attain high levels of education and have solid functional relationships in later life, a lack of finance and active parental involvement in their educational activities and social lives can serve to limit their development. As single-mother households face more economic hardships than any other family structures, financial assistance from both the government and their communities would undoubtedly increase the likelihood of children in single-mother families attaining their true academic potential. In addition, free counselling services would also help children who are forced to live under these circumstances overcome the emotional burden which inevitably accompanies either losing or being separated from one parent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Makoni, Mavis
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Single-parent families , Children of single parents Young adults
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5292 , vital:29184
- Description: Although the single-parent family is becoming an increasingly common family structure, it is associated with a great many hardships. Owing to the heavy responsibilities which fall on single parents, most fail to meet all of the needs of their children, particularly with respect to the financial needs which are entailed by providing educational necessities, safe, stable and permanent accommodation, adequate food and nutrition and healthcare. This study adopted the parental loss perspective, the economic hardship perspective and the interparental conflict perspective in investigating the experiences of young adults who were raised in single-parent families. A qualitative approach was adopted to conduct the research and data was collected from 26 male and female participants between the ages of 22 and 39 years who resided within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The researcher sought permission to conduct this study from all the community leaders including the councillors and chiefs, thereby acquiring the first referrals. The study made use of purposive sampling and snowballing to select the research sample. The data was collected by using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions and analysed through the use of thematic analysis. The principal findings of the study indicate that although children who are raised in single-parent homes can attain high levels of education and have solid functional relationships in later life, a lack of finance and active parental involvement in their educational activities and social lives can serve to limit their development. As single-mother households face more economic hardships than any other family structures, financial assistance from both the government and their communities would undoubtedly increase the likelihood of children in single-mother families attaining their true academic potential. In addition, free counselling services would also help children who are forced to live under these circumstances overcome the emotional burden which inevitably accompanies either losing or being separated from one parent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The collapse of the Zimbabwe currency and its soci-economic consequences on the middle class : the case of Msasa Park Suburb in Harare
- Authors: Mambiravana, Tafadzwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Devaluation of currency -- Zimbabwe Currency crises -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8375 , vital:32401
- Description: Currency crashing is one of the recurring problems in emerging economies. The crashes are as a result of the following factors; poor government policies, fiscal imbalances, trade deficits, higher inflations, monetary policies, and liquidity shortage among others. The crashing of currencies poses socio-economic problems that are devastating to different classes of people. To this end, this study sought to investigate the social consequences of currency crash to the middle class in Zimbabwe with a particular focus on the case of Msasa Park suburb in Harare. The study sought to investigate how the middle class households adapted to the situation induced by the crash of the Zimbabwean dollar, to examine how the currency crisis in Zimbabwe affected consumption patterns of the middle class at a household level and to identify the effects of currency crashes to the middle class’ national feeling and identity. The study utilized a qualitative research method in the form of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling and quota sampling to generate the targeted participants of the study. The findings of the study have shown that the crash of the Zimbabwean dollar resulted in massive retrenchments, dwindling work opportunities, shrinkages in salaries and wages of employees particularly the middle class. This led to the rampant growth of the informal sector whereby people ended up engaging into extra economic activities outside their professions so as to supplement their incomes. Moreover, the study has shown that some middle class households began to cut out luxurious goods and prioritize basics. As such, their consumption patterns began to change in that their daily meals were reduced. The main reason given by the participants were that groceries were no longer available in shops. Resultantly, the majority of the participants said that they had to either grow their own food or import it from neighboring countries such as Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. In addition, the study yields that crash of the Zimbabwean dollar exacerbated migration of the working class to other countries. Last but not least, the study has shown that the crashing of the Zimbabwean dollar had effects on the class identity of the middle class in that the majority of them completely lost their status since they were experiencing downward mobility.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mambiravana, Tafadzwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Devaluation of currency -- Zimbabwe Currency crises -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8375 , vital:32401
- Description: Currency crashing is one of the recurring problems in emerging economies. The crashes are as a result of the following factors; poor government policies, fiscal imbalances, trade deficits, higher inflations, monetary policies, and liquidity shortage among others. The crashing of currencies poses socio-economic problems that are devastating to different classes of people. To this end, this study sought to investigate the social consequences of currency crash to the middle class in Zimbabwe with a particular focus on the case of Msasa Park suburb in Harare. The study sought to investigate how the middle class households adapted to the situation induced by the crash of the Zimbabwean dollar, to examine how the currency crisis in Zimbabwe affected consumption patterns of the middle class at a household level and to identify the effects of currency crashes to the middle class’ national feeling and identity. The study utilized a qualitative research method in the form of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling and quota sampling to generate the targeted participants of the study. The findings of the study have shown that the crash of the Zimbabwean dollar resulted in massive retrenchments, dwindling work opportunities, shrinkages in salaries and wages of employees particularly the middle class. This led to the rampant growth of the informal sector whereby people ended up engaging into extra economic activities outside their professions so as to supplement their incomes. Moreover, the study has shown that some middle class households began to cut out luxurious goods and prioritize basics. As such, their consumption patterns began to change in that their daily meals were reduced. The main reason given by the participants were that groceries were no longer available in shops. Resultantly, the majority of the participants said that they had to either grow their own food or import it from neighboring countries such as Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. In addition, the study yields that crash of the Zimbabwean dollar exacerbated migration of the working class to other countries. Last but not least, the study has shown that the crashing of the Zimbabwean dollar had effects on the class identity of the middle class in that the majority of them completely lost their status since they were experiencing downward mobility.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of substance abuse among the youth : the case of Dimbaza Township, King Williams Town Eastern Cape
- Authors: Manyonta, Ayanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9389 , vital:34338
- Description: Youth substance abuse is a major social and health concern globally, South Africa notwithstanding. The effect of using substances among the youth does not only impend overall personal development of the youth, but it also limits their aspiration for the future and creates an environment that exacerbates to social ills. This study explored the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza King Williams Town. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to establish the extent of the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza township; (ii) determine the impact of the effects of substance abuse towards the development of Dimbaza Township; (iii) document interventional strategies to mitigate the effects of substance abuse. The study used a qualitative approach, where explorative and descriptive designs were used. Specifically, the case study design was used. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus groups, secondary data and key informants methods. The study used non-probability sampling techniques, but specifically purpose sampling technique was used. Twenty eight (28) participants were sampled which comprised of (12) youth faced with substance related challenges, (6) family members, and (10) key informants. Data was analyzed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following: preponderance of marijuana (dagga) and alcohol, peer pressure as precursor to substance abuse, antisocial behaviours attributable to substance abuse, youth engagement in various criminal activities, evidence of moral decay in Dimbaza, state of poverty aggravating substance abuse habits, paucity of community intervention for social ills. The study made the following recommendations: a need for government to intensify awareness of the impact of substance abuse among the youth; the need for social practitioners to mitigate dysfunctional families facing substance related challenges; strategic educational intervention targeting potential addicts are needed so as to curb the proliferation the effect of substance abuse; establishment of family educational programs are needed to capacitate communities in order to mitigating substance related behaviors;; special police force is needed to strengthen substance abuse campaigns as primary intervention so as to educate pre-adolescents about the aftermaths of substance abuse; moral regeneration initiatives are needed to instill the significance of Ubuntu and worth of human being; intensify of moral regeneration campaigns facilitated by faith-based organizations; and lastly, the government and other stakeholders should fund youth development programs that will equip them with skills to afford them opportunities to bolster their lives and contribute to improving their country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Manyonta, Ayanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth -- Substance use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Substance abuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9389 , vital:34338
- Description: Youth substance abuse is a major social and health concern globally, South Africa notwithstanding. The effect of using substances among the youth does not only impend overall personal development of the youth, but it also limits their aspiration for the future and creates an environment that exacerbates to social ills. This study explored the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza King Williams Town. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to establish the extent of the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Dimbaza township; (ii) determine the impact of the effects of substance abuse towards the development of Dimbaza Township; (iii) document interventional strategies to mitigate the effects of substance abuse. The study used a qualitative approach, where explorative and descriptive designs were used. Specifically, the case study design was used. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus groups, secondary data and key informants methods. The study used non-probability sampling techniques, but specifically purpose sampling technique was used. Twenty eight (28) participants were sampled which comprised of (12) youth faced with substance related challenges, (6) family members, and (10) key informants. Data was analyzed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following: preponderance of marijuana (dagga) and alcohol, peer pressure as precursor to substance abuse, antisocial behaviours attributable to substance abuse, youth engagement in various criminal activities, evidence of moral decay in Dimbaza, state of poverty aggravating substance abuse habits, paucity of community intervention for social ills. The study made the following recommendations: a need for government to intensify awareness of the impact of substance abuse among the youth; the need for social practitioners to mitigate dysfunctional families facing substance related challenges; strategic educational intervention targeting potential addicts are needed so as to curb the proliferation the effect of substance abuse; establishment of family educational programs are needed to capacitate communities in order to mitigating substance related behaviors;; special police force is needed to strengthen substance abuse campaigns as primary intervention so as to educate pre-adolescents about the aftermaths of substance abuse; moral regeneration initiatives are needed to instill the significance of Ubuntu and worth of human being; intensify of moral regeneration campaigns facilitated by faith-based organizations; and lastly, the government and other stakeholders should fund youth development programs that will equip them with skills to afford them opportunities to bolster their lives and contribute to improving their country’s economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An investigation of experiences encountered by female adults living with HIV/AIDS and taking ARV treatment : the case of Ntselanzi location, Raymond Mhlaba municipality, Alice Eastern Cape
- Authors: Matumelo, Nobuhle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Prevention HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15012 , vital:40132
- Description: The study investigated the experiences encountered by female adults from Ntselamanzi living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and using Anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment. The study used a qualitative approach as well as a case study design that was descriptive explorative and explanative. The sample size or the unit of analysis consisted of 29 participants who included 12 female adults living with HIV/AIDS and having used ARVs for a minimum of three months; six nurses directly serving the people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA); six family members catering for the infected members within their family setting; and five key informants that included a social worker, a community leader, a health promoter, a community developer, and an HIV co-ordinator situated within the community of Ntselamanzi. A non-probability sampling method was adopted, specifically incorporating both snowball and purposive sampling techniques to select the sample. Significantly, the study was led by the following objectives: (1) To explore the experiences of female adults living with HIV/AIDS in Ntselamanzi, (2) To establish the coping mechanisms adopted by the PLWHA (3) To determine the effects of coping challenges and the adherence to ARVs. The data was collected by means of face-toface in-depth interviews in tandem with focus group discussion (FGD); and it was analysed qualitatively using content thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that all female adults living with HIV/AIDS and using ARVs encountered innumerable challenges that impaired their coping. The findings also indicated that malfunctioning and interruption of PLWHA coping was influenced by social factors such as unemployment, high level of poverty, low educational levels, lack of information sharing programmes and dependency on social grants. Lastly, the support to PLWHA especially by family members was highly indicated in the study’s findings. The following recommendations emanated from the study: strengthening research on coping challenges of female adults using ARVs in rural areas; empowering and training more caregivers for PLWHA by the Health Department; more involvement of social workers in helping the PLWHA; more involvement of government in the HIV/AIDS campaign in rural settings; and government facilitation and support to the PLWHA to form and belong to support groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Matumelo, Nobuhle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Prevention HIV-positive persons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15012 , vital:40132
- Description: The study investigated the experiences encountered by female adults from Ntselamanzi living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and using Anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment. The study used a qualitative approach as well as a case study design that was descriptive explorative and explanative. The sample size or the unit of analysis consisted of 29 participants who included 12 female adults living with HIV/AIDS and having used ARVs for a minimum of three months; six nurses directly serving the people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA); six family members catering for the infected members within their family setting; and five key informants that included a social worker, a community leader, a health promoter, a community developer, and an HIV co-ordinator situated within the community of Ntselamanzi. A non-probability sampling method was adopted, specifically incorporating both snowball and purposive sampling techniques to select the sample. Significantly, the study was led by the following objectives: (1) To explore the experiences of female adults living with HIV/AIDS in Ntselamanzi, (2) To establish the coping mechanisms adopted by the PLWHA (3) To determine the effects of coping challenges and the adherence to ARVs. The data was collected by means of face-toface in-depth interviews in tandem with focus group discussion (FGD); and it was analysed qualitatively using content thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that all female adults living with HIV/AIDS and using ARVs encountered innumerable challenges that impaired their coping. The findings also indicated that malfunctioning and interruption of PLWHA coping was influenced by social factors such as unemployment, high level of poverty, low educational levels, lack of information sharing programmes and dependency on social grants. Lastly, the support to PLWHA especially by family members was highly indicated in the study’s findings. The following recommendations emanated from the study: strengthening research on coping challenges of female adults using ARVs in rural areas; empowering and training more caregivers for PLWHA by the Health Department; more involvement of social workers in helping the PLWHA; more involvement of government in the HIV/AIDS campaign in rural settings; and government facilitation and support to the PLWHA to form and belong to support groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Assessing the role of the community radio stations in facilitating development : a case study of Forte FM in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mawokomayi, Betina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Radio in community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5462 , vital:29259
- Description: Community radio stations play an important role in the development of their communities. Forte FM is a community radio station located at University of Fort Hare Alice campus and was established to facilitate development in communities within the Amathole district municipality. Alice, a small rural town under Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, is one of the communities under the coverage of Forte FM. This study assessed the role that Forte FM plays in facilitating the development of Alice community. The study adopted a mixed method design in which questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data. The study findings show that although Forte FM is faced with serious financial challenges, it contributes to the development of Alice in various ways which includes providing the community with agricultural information, health information, promoting local culture, equipping the community with skills, promote local artists and sports personnel and educational programmes. The findings also revealed that the community is involved in the management of some aspects of the station’s operations through a board which is elected annually by the community itself. The results indicate that the radio station involve some community members in programming as experts on some topics or as people who have experienced an ordeal so they could share their experiences and advice other people how to manage similar situations. However, there is need to involve the community in the whole production process. The respondents’ attributed poor levels of community participation in programming to insufficient funds. The study recommends that Forte FM should lobby members of the community to fund the production of programmes since the station belongs to the community. This will enhance the sense of community ownership towards the radio station.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mawokomayi, Betina
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Radio in community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community radio -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5462 , vital:29259
- Description: Community radio stations play an important role in the development of their communities. Forte FM is a community radio station located at University of Fort Hare Alice campus and was established to facilitate development in communities within the Amathole district municipality. Alice, a small rural town under Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, is one of the communities under the coverage of Forte FM. This study assessed the role that Forte FM plays in facilitating the development of Alice community. The study adopted a mixed method design in which questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data. The study findings show that although Forte FM is faced with serious financial challenges, it contributes to the development of Alice in various ways which includes providing the community with agricultural information, health information, promoting local culture, equipping the community with skills, promote local artists and sports personnel and educational programmes. The findings also revealed that the community is involved in the management of some aspects of the station’s operations through a board which is elected annually by the community itself. The results indicate that the radio station involve some community members in programming as experts on some topics or as people who have experienced an ordeal so they could share their experiences and advice other people how to manage similar situations. However, there is need to involve the community in the whole production process. The respondents’ attributed poor levels of community participation in programming to insufficient funds. The study recommends that Forte FM should lobby members of the community to fund the production of programmes since the station belongs to the community. This will enhance the sense of community ownership towards the radio station.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perspectives of social media's influence on university students' social lives : a case study of the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus
- Mazaiwana, Tanyaradza Sandra
- Authors: Mazaiwana, Tanyaradza Sandra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare Social media Universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13128 , vital:39467
- Description: The main purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of social media‘s influence on students‘ social life and the study made use of the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus as a case study. The internet and new media technology has brought about communication systems such as social media which has taken over the communication media world and is seen as an important socializing agent that students make use of. The study was therefore based on the premise that social media is enhancing the social interaction of people. It has become clear that most studies look at how social media enrich the life of students but little information is there on the kind of influence that it has on their social life. The study employed a quantitative approach to find out the effects of social media on social lives. The population was drawn from the four faculties at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus and the sample size was 190. The data was collected using a standardized questionnaire and proportioned stratified random sampling was used to ensure a representative sample. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and descriptive statistics was used to analyse the demographical and general factors on the perceptions of students‘ social life. The perceptions of the respondents about social media and their social life was that it plays a great role in improving their social life as they are able to maintain relationships, they are always up to date with what is going on in their environment and it makes communication a lot more easier. In addition the results and discussion of this study confirmed that there is another dark side of social media which is hardly acknowledged by most scholars. Social media has a negative side towards students‘ social life which include isolation, depression, and distraction from reality, cyberbullying and low self- esteem. The study confirmed that students spent most of their time on social media and that their social life is affected as they have little or no time to socialise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mazaiwana, Tanyaradza Sandra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare Social media Universities and colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13128 , vital:39467
- Description: The main purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of social media‘s influence on students‘ social life and the study made use of the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus as a case study. The internet and new media technology has brought about communication systems such as social media which has taken over the communication media world and is seen as an important socializing agent that students make use of. The study was therefore based on the premise that social media is enhancing the social interaction of people. It has become clear that most studies look at how social media enrich the life of students but little information is there on the kind of influence that it has on their social life. The study employed a quantitative approach to find out the effects of social media on social lives. The population was drawn from the four faculties at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus and the sample size was 190. The data was collected using a standardized questionnaire and proportioned stratified random sampling was used to ensure a representative sample. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and descriptive statistics was used to analyse the demographical and general factors on the perceptions of students‘ social life. The perceptions of the respondents about social media and their social life was that it plays a great role in improving their social life as they are able to maintain relationships, they are always up to date with what is going on in their environment and it makes communication a lot more easier. In addition the results and discussion of this study confirmed that there is another dark side of social media which is hardly acknowledged by most scholars. Social media has a negative side towards students‘ social life which include isolation, depression, and distraction from reality, cyberbullying and low self- esteem. The study confirmed that students spent most of their time on social media and that their social life is affected as they have little or no time to socialise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the effects of foster care placement on childhood development : a study of Berlin location, Buffalo City municipality
- Authors: Mbonda, Mamela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Foster home care Orphans Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15343 , vital:40399
- Description: The number of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa is drastically increasing which leads to most children being put in a foster care system. Yet there are great lacunae within its implementation; facilitation and monitoring which effectively affect the children involved. This evoked interest to the researcher on evaluating the effects of foster placement on childhood development; a study of Berlin Location, Buffalo City Municipality. The study intended to fulfil the following objectives: 1. To document environments that challenges foster care placement as an intervention of child placement; 2. To understand the negative impacts of foster care on a child’s psychosocial development; 3. To explore the impact of host parent’s culture to the child’s adaptation; 4. To establish the strengths and weaknesses of the South African child protection system. The study utilized qualitative paradigms guided by the qualitative research approach by adopting a case study cum phenomenological design. It employed in-depth interviews, focus groups, key informants as data collection methods. The study used both non-probability and probability sampling methods of which purposive and simple random sampling technique was utilised. The population of study was made up of twenty (20) participants who were incorporated of five (5) foster parents, five (5) key informants and ten (10) foster children. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings: (i) challenges pertaining to adjustment to home milieu, (ii) lack of knowledge on foster parents’ rights and responsibilities, (iii) inadequateness of foster grant, (iv) cultural deviance, (v) prevalence of drug use and teenage pregnancy, (vi) dire lack of awareness raising sessions for the foster parents and their children, (vii) identity crisis disposition displayed by foster children, (viii) lack of individualizing cases of foster care placement by the social workers, (ix) efficiency of alternative care in comparison to residential care, (x) internalization of emotions by foster children, (xi) continued void for the biological mother’s love and affection,(xii) paucity of monitoring services to children, (xiii) information sharing and capacity building workshops for social workers a prerequisite, (xiv) Effectiveness of authoritative parenting a successful method and difficulty with telling foster children about their background. The study findings made the following recommendations: Strengthening inter-sectoral relationships and capacitate different stakeholders; Emphasis on early intervention and preventative programmes; Enforcement of punishment measure for incompliance; Implementation of training for foster parents and children; Foster care process made a specialization for social workers, Government to invest on psychosocial support and capacitating workshops for social workers. The researcher, therefore, hopes to have fulfilled the study objectives and further explored all the requirements of the study during data collection. More-so, fulfilment of objectives will assist the government and relevant stakeholders in bridging the gaps that exist with child protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mbonda, Mamela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Foster home care Orphans Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15343 , vital:40399
- Description: The number of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa is drastically increasing which leads to most children being put in a foster care system. Yet there are great lacunae within its implementation; facilitation and monitoring which effectively affect the children involved. This evoked interest to the researcher on evaluating the effects of foster placement on childhood development; a study of Berlin Location, Buffalo City Municipality. The study intended to fulfil the following objectives: 1. To document environments that challenges foster care placement as an intervention of child placement; 2. To understand the negative impacts of foster care on a child’s psychosocial development; 3. To explore the impact of host parent’s culture to the child’s adaptation; 4. To establish the strengths and weaknesses of the South African child protection system. The study utilized qualitative paradigms guided by the qualitative research approach by adopting a case study cum phenomenological design. It employed in-depth interviews, focus groups, key informants as data collection methods. The study used both non-probability and probability sampling methods of which purposive and simple random sampling technique was utilised. The population of study was made up of twenty (20) participants who were incorporated of five (5) foster parents, five (5) key informants and ten (10) foster children. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings: (i) challenges pertaining to adjustment to home milieu, (ii) lack of knowledge on foster parents’ rights and responsibilities, (iii) inadequateness of foster grant, (iv) cultural deviance, (v) prevalence of drug use and teenage pregnancy, (vi) dire lack of awareness raising sessions for the foster parents and their children, (vii) identity crisis disposition displayed by foster children, (viii) lack of individualizing cases of foster care placement by the social workers, (ix) efficiency of alternative care in comparison to residential care, (x) internalization of emotions by foster children, (xi) continued void for the biological mother’s love and affection,(xii) paucity of monitoring services to children, (xiii) information sharing and capacity building workshops for social workers a prerequisite, (xiv) Effectiveness of authoritative parenting a successful method and difficulty with telling foster children about their background. The study findings made the following recommendations: Strengthening inter-sectoral relationships and capacitate different stakeholders; Emphasis on early intervention and preventative programmes; Enforcement of punishment measure for incompliance; Implementation of training for foster parents and children; Foster care process made a specialization for social workers, Government to invest on psychosocial support and capacitating workshops for social workers. The researcher, therefore, hopes to have fulfilled the study objectives and further explored all the requirements of the study during data collection. More-so, fulfilment of objectives will assist the government and relevant stakeholders in bridging the gaps that exist with child protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An exploration of the effectiveness of social work interventions in assisting children living with HIV/AIDS : the case of Nobuhle Unit 8 Community Clinic, Mdantsane, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mdlankomo, Andiswa Pamella
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social work with children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8574 , vital:33137
- Description: Social work practice in South African societies is of paramount importance because of high levels of poverty and various vulnerabilities. Despite the fact that there is much research on social work and children living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa, the link between social work approaches and vulnerable children has remained silent. Therefore, it was necessary to explore the quality of service delivery and understand how effective are social work interventions towards specific vulnerable children with the aim of enhancing their wellbeing. Thus, the study explored social work interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS. The study adopted qualitative research approach method for the purposes of collecting data. In-depth interviews were used as methods of data collection to find out the effectiveness and relevancy of social work interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS. The data was thematically analysed. The main findings indicated a lack of commitment in social work practice and that mirrors a lack of adequate Continuous Professional Development Training (CPDT); Social work practice in Mdantsane is overwhelmed by statutory work; and social work practice as associated with monotonous duties or an inescapable boring work routine. Moreover, the study unearthed that social workers‟ interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS are ineffective in Mdantsane Nobuhle Unit 8 community due to service delivery constraints faced by social workers, such as lack of specific HIV/AIDS proper care work training of social workers, lack of resources, high caseloads, misconceptions, and poor implementation of governmental policies. Hence, the study recommends the need for more social workers to fill up this shortage. Thus, the study recommended that there should be an indigenous social welfare and social work practice of assisting children infected and affected by HIV/AIDs. Furthermore, the study recommended that social workers should be equipped with local based skills and knowledge so as to be able to practice professionally. The study concluded that, there should be practical interventions looking into the socio-economic and political contexts and challenging the theorization of the practice, but adopting a more pragmatic approach through influencing and lobbying the government to respondent to the children needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mdlankomo, Andiswa Pamella
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social work with children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8574 , vital:33137
- Description: Social work practice in South African societies is of paramount importance because of high levels of poverty and various vulnerabilities. Despite the fact that there is much research on social work and children living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa, the link between social work approaches and vulnerable children has remained silent. Therefore, it was necessary to explore the quality of service delivery and understand how effective are social work interventions towards specific vulnerable children with the aim of enhancing their wellbeing. Thus, the study explored social work interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS. The study adopted qualitative research approach method for the purposes of collecting data. In-depth interviews were used as methods of data collection to find out the effectiveness and relevancy of social work interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS. The data was thematically analysed. The main findings indicated a lack of commitment in social work practice and that mirrors a lack of adequate Continuous Professional Development Training (CPDT); Social work practice in Mdantsane is overwhelmed by statutory work; and social work practice as associated with monotonous duties or an inescapable boring work routine. Moreover, the study unearthed that social workers‟ interventions towards assisting children living with HIV/AIDS are ineffective in Mdantsane Nobuhle Unit 8 community due to service delivery constraints faced by social workers, such as lack of specific HIV/AIDS proper care work training of social workers, lack of resources, high caseloads, misconceptions, and poor implementation of governmental policies. Hence, the study recommends the need for more social workers to fill up this shortage. Thus, the study recommended that there should be an indigenous social welfare and social work practice of assisting children infected and affected by HIV/AIDs. Furthermore, the study recommended that social workers should be equipped with local based skills and knowledge so as to be able to practice professionally. The study concluded that, there should be practical interventions looking into the socio-economic and political contexts and challenging the theorization of the practice, but adopting a more pragmatic approach through influencing and lobbying the government to respondent to the children needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring employees' need for the development of an employee assistance programme at a welfare organisation
- Authors: Mncunzwa, Gcobisa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5554 , vital:29325
- Description: The study was conducted in order to determine the employee needs for an employee assistance programme in a welfare organisation in East London, Eastern Cape. This study was born out of a need from the management of this welfare organisation in East London who identified a need for an employee assistance Programme (EAP) within their organisation. According to management, there was a decline in productivity, and high stress levels due to high caseloads and societal demands (Leeuw, May 15, 2015). The theoretical framework that guided this research was systems theory. The rationale for using systems theory is that this study deals with individuals within an organisation who must coexist on a daily basis. There is a general belief that people and their physical-social-cultural environment interact in processes of mutual reciprocity and complementary exchanges (Merton, 2009). A qualitative approach was used in this study. Eight (8) employees from various levels in a welfare organisation were purposively selected to participate in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants and the interviews took more than forty-five (45) minutes each and this enabled the acquisition of rich information which is described in the findings and is used as a basis for the recommendations in the study. After the examination of the needs of employees for an EAP from the observations of both the employer and the employee it was clear that there is a need for employee assistance programmes in welfare organisations. Employees in this organisation are experiencing stress, burnout and were highly concerned about high caseloads that makes them feel incompetent to render adequate and quality services to their employees. The study also revealed that both employees and management of this organisation have different needs, experience different types of problems and view the EAP in different contexts. Despite the differences in their outlook on the situation, the evidence indicates that both employer and employee perceive that there is a need for an EAP, especially clinical services. At the same time, the issue of funding such a programme is also a concern. Recommendations were made for the organisation to develop an EAP to address the needs identified by employees, and for a clear communication strategy be developed to make all levels of employees within the organisation aware of the existence of such a programme. Another recommendation was made for the organisation to identify specific days on which they will conduct preventative awareness and debriefing sessions for the employees. It was also recommended that the South African Council for Social Services Professionals must standardise, regulate and monitor caseloads for the social work profession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mncunzwa, Gcobisa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5554 , vital:29325
- Description: The study was conducted in order to determine the employee needs for an employee assistance programme in a welfare organisation in East London, Eastern Cape. This study was born out of a need from the management of this welfare organisation in East London who identified a need for an employee assistance Programme (EAP) within their organisation. According to management, there was a decline in productivity, and high stress levels due to high caseloads and societal demands (Leeuw, May 15, 2015). The theoretical framework that guided this research was systems theory. The rationale for using systems theory is that this study deals with individuals within an organisation who must coexist on a daily basis. There is a general belief that people and their physical-social-cultural environment interact in processes of mutual reciprocity and complementary exchanges (Merton, 2009). A qualitative approach was used in this study. Eight (8) employees from various levels in a welfare organisation were purposively selected to participate in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants and the interviews took more than forty-five (45) minutes each and this enabled the acquisition of rich information which is described in the findings and is used as a basis for the recommendations in the study. After the examination of the needs of employees for an EAP from the observations of both the employer and the employee it was clear that there is a need for employee assistance programmes in welfare organisations. Employees in this organisation are experiencing stress, burnout and were highly concerned about high caseloads that makes them feel incompetent to render adequate and quality services to their employees. The study also revealed that both employees and management of this organisation have different needs, experience different types of problems and view the EAP in different contexts. Despite the differences in their outlook on the situation, the evidence indicates that both employer and employee perceive that there is a need for an EAP, especially clinical services. At the same time, the issue of funding such a programme is also a concern. Recommendations were made for the organisation to develop an EAP to address the needs identified by employees, and for a clear communication strategy be developed to make all levels of employees within the organisation aware of the existence of such a programme. Another recommendation was made for the organisation to identify specific days on which they will conduct preventative awareness and debriefing sessions for the employees. It was also recommended that the South African Council for Social Services Professionals must standardise, regulate and monitor caseloads for the social work profession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Strategies, challenges and socio-economic contribution of immigrant entrepreneurship in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal Area
- Authors: Muridzo, Phillemon Dudzai
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Minority business enterprises -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17849 , vital:41375
- Description: Immigrants, in whatever country they settle, have always been involved in entrepreneurial activities mainly for survival, remittance and other purposes. Globally, immigrant entrepreneurship has significantly contributed to the economy of host nations. The aim of this research study is to investigate the business strategies, challenges and socio-economic contribution of immigrant entrepreneurship in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal (BCMM) area, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This study builds upon fieldwork undertaken within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal area situated in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A Case Study research design was utilised, and it encompassed three kinds of data collection methods – indepth interviews, focus groups and direct observation. The key finding of this study indicated that as a consequence of the challenges they encounter, immigrant entrepreneurs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal area had devised different business strategies to ensure that their businesses remain afloat and profitable. Another key finding of the study is that immigrant entrepreneurs in the BCMM Area make significant socio-economic contributions to their host communities. In addition to other positive contributions, immigrant entrepreneurs add to the revitalization of neighbourhoods and provide employment to their respective communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Muridzo, Phillemon Dudzai
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Minority business enterprises -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17849 , vital:41375
- Description: Immigrants, in whatever country they settle, have always been involved in entrepreneurial activities mainly for survival, remittance and other purposes. Globally, immigrant entrepreneurship has significantly contributed to the economy of host nations. The aim of this research study is to investigate the business strategies, challenges and socio-economic contribution of immigrant entrepreneurship in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal (BCMM) area, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This study builds upon fieldwork undertaken within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal area situated in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A Case Study research design was utilised, and it encompassed three kinds of data collection methods – indepth interviews, focus groups and direct observation. The key finding of this study indicated that as a consequence of the challenges they encounter, immigrant entrepreneurs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal area had devised different business strategies to ensure that their businesses remain afloat and profitable. Another key finding of the study is that immigrant entrepreneurs in the BCMM Area make significant socio-economic contributions to their host communities. In addition to other positive contributions, immigrant entrepreneurs add to the revitalization of neighbourhoods and provide employment to their respective communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exit strategies in social protection and the role of the social worker : a case study of exited households from the harmonised social cash transfers in Goromonzi District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Muwoni, Leon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social security -- Zimbabwe Social service -- Zimbabwe Households -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8364 , vital:32389
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the strategies utilised in exiting households from the Harmonised Social Cash Transfer in Zimbabwe and also the role of the social worker in facilitating and ensuring a smooth readjustment thereof. The study area was Goromonzi District, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The data were collected with semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. It emerged in the study that besides the financial constraints and general challenges characterising social protection in Zimbabwe, there have been some significant improvements in the livelihoods of the beneficiaries. For example the beneficiary households increased their food consumption in terms of quantity and quality, reduction of poverty among other positive outcomes. The study however noted that despite having registered some positive outcomes on the beneficiaries, the programme was designed without a clear cut exit/graduation strategy. Upon being exited from the HSCT, beneficiaries are supposed either to be supported to maintain their livelihoods or to be graduated into other social protection programmes so that the shock of being exited is minimised. In addition to the above, the study found that, graduation of social protection is hardly possible for the nature of HSCT programme beneficiaries, therefore ‘programme exit’ is the only most realistic thing to talk about in the programme. The study makes a case for curving a role for social workers in managing exit for beneficiaries of social protection programmes and helping families with the readjustment process post cash transfers. Furthermore, this study recommends that programmes should be designed either as ‘graduation’ focused programs or with a clear plan and road map of how beneficiary or programme exit would be handled. This will not only help in planning for the end-phase but also for the nature and approach for programme implementation. In addition, the study recommends that during implementation of social transfer programs, particularly cash, it is of essence to link the cash benefits with livelihood and asset building interventions to ensure sustainability. Families need to be encouraged through ‘soft messaging’ or supported to structure either group or individual savings and or investments in assets and livestock that will help cushion them in the event of sudden programme discontinuation or when faced with shocks and hazards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Muwoni, Leon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social security -- Zimbabwe Social service -- Zimbabwe Households -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8364 , vital:32389
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the strategies utilised in exiting households from the Harmonised Social Cash Transfer in Zimbabwe and also the role of the social worker in facilitating and ensuring a smooth readjustment thereof. The study area was Goromonzi District, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The data were collected with semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. It emerged in the study that besides the financial constraints and general challenges characterising social protection in Zimbabwe, there have been some significant improvements in the livelihoods of the beneficiaries. For example the beneficiary households increased their food consumption in terms of quantity and quality, reduction of poverty among other positive outcomes. The study however noted that despite having registered some positive outcomes on the beneficiaries, the programme was designed without a clear cut exit/graduation strategy. Upon being exited from the HSCT, beneficiaries are supposed either to be supported to maintain their livelihoods or to be graduated into other social protection programmes so that the shock of being exited is minimised. In addition to the above, the study found that, graduation of social protection is hardly possible for the nature of HSCT programme beneficiaries, therefore ‘programme exit’ is the only most realistic thing to talk about in the programme. The study makes a case for curving a role for social workers in managing exit for beneficiaries of social protection programmes and helping families with the readjustment process post cash transfers. Furthermore, this study recommends that programmes should be designed either as ‘graduation’ focused programs or with a clear plan and road map of how beneficiary or programme exit would be handled. This will not only help in planning for the end-phase but also for the nature and approach for programme implementation. In addition, the study recommends that during implementation of social transfer programs, particularly cash, it is of essence to link the cash benefits with livelihood and asset building interventions to ensure sustainability. Families need to be encouraged through ‘soft messaging’ or supported to structure either group or individual savings and or investments in assets and livestock that will help cushion them in the event of sudden programme discontinuation or when faced with shocks and hazards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Narratives of challenge and motivation : the stories of East London Community Health Care volunteers
- Authors: Ngconjana, Unati
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Community health services Volunteer workers in social service Home care services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6325 , vital:29569
- Description: The research study was aimed at exploring the narratives of motivations and challenges that home-based health care workers experience in their voluntary service provision. It was conducted in East London in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. A total of seven participants who volunteer in home based care programmes were interviewed and their mean age was 30 years; all were females, two married, one a widow, one divorced and two single females. The narrative framework was used to explore the volunteers' interpretation of volunteering experiences, highlighting themes that emerged on what encourages them to volunteer as home based health care workers, and how they deal with challenges that arise during the provision of services. The research was also aimed at exploring the social factors supporting the volunteers' decision to continue volunteering. Narratives from the interviewed community health workers [CHWs] indicate that the motives for participating in CHW programmes are mainly altruistic although people are sometimes motivated by self-interest. Self-interest seems to be particularly relevant in the case of the younger volunteers as they expressed their hope that providing voluntary service may help to enhance their skills so as to facilitate future learning and employment prospects. The recurring themes within the CHWs' narrative indicate that they identify with the helping role and feel it empowers them as they participate in meaningful ways in their communities, and they gain strength to cope with challenges that come with community health work. This study highlighted the complex nature of home based care roles, which inevitably reflect the intervention approach, the mode of working, professional roles and relationships with communities.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
Narratives of challenge and motivation : the stories of East London Community Health Care volunteers
- Authors: Ngconjana, Unati
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Community health services Volunteer workers in social service Home care services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6325 , vital:29569
- Description: The research study was aimed at exploring the narratives of motivations and challenges that home-based health care workers experience in their voluntary service provision. It was conducted in East London in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. A total of seven participants who volunteer in home based care programmes were interviewed and their mean age was 30 years; all were females, two married, one a widow, one divorced and two single females. The narrative framework was used to explore the volunteers' interpretation of volunteering experiences, highlighting themes that emerged on what encourages them to volunteer as home based health care workers, and how they deal with challenges that arise during the provision of services. The research was also aimed at exploring the social factors supporting the volunteers' decision to continue volunteering. Narratives from the interviewed community health workers [CHWs] indicate that the motives for participating in CHW programmes are mainly altruistic although people are sometimes motivated by self-interest. Self-interest seems to be particularly relevant in the case of the younger volunteers as they expressed their hope that providing voluntary service may help to enhance their skills so as to facilitate future learning and employment prospects. The recurring themes within the CHWs' narrative indicate that they identify with the helping role and feel it empowers them as they participate in meaningful ways in their communities, and they gain strength to cope with challenges that come with community health work. This study highlighted the complex nature of home based care roles, which inevitably reflect the intervention approach, the mode of working, professional roles and relationships with communities.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017