The phenomenology of psychiatric diagnosis: an exploration of the experience of intersubjectivity
- Bradfield, Bruce Christopher
- Authors: Bradfield, Bruce Christopher
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Mental illness -- Diagnosis , Intersubjectivity , Stereotypes (Social psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002450 , Mental illness -- Diagnosis , Intersubjectivity , Stereotypes (Social psychology)
- Description: This work is born out of previous research, conducted by this researcher, into the effects of psychiatric labelling on individuals thus differentiated. Informed by the investigative thrust of phenomenological inquiry, it is the aim herein to provide an illumination of the dramatic confrontation of the labelled individual with the classificatory branding that is his or her label. The question asked is: What is the experience of the labelled individual, and how does the label function as a ‘scientific fact’ (Kiesler, 2000) suffused within his being? In answering these questions, the researcher aims to abandon his own expectations, as is fitting with the phenomenological method, and to devote his sympathies entirely to the subjective disclosures which, it is hoped, the participants will offer. On this point, an obvious tension exists insofar as expectation and hypothesis necessarily constitute the inception of any research endeavour; and so, the notion of a complete bracketing of assumption and anticipation seems methodologically vague. The explorative impetus within this dissertation aims towards an elucidation of the effect of psychiatric diagnosis on the labelled individual, in terms of the individual’s experience of being-with-others. The impact of the offering of the label upon the individual’s interpersonal and intersubjective presence will be explored so as to establish whether psychiatric labelling unfolds as a disconnection of the individual from his co-existence with others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Bradfield, Bruce Christopher
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Mental illness -- Diagnosis , Intersubjectivity , Stereotypes (Social psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002450 , Mental illness -- Diagnosis , Intersubjectivity , Stereotypes (Social psychology)
- Description: This work is born out of previous research, conducted by this researcher, into the effects of psychiatric labelling on individuals thus differentiated. Informed by the investigative thrust of phenomenological inquiry, it is the aim herein to provide an illumination of the dramatic confrontation of the labelled individual with the classificatory branding that is his or her label. The question asked is: What is the experience of the labelled individual, and how does the label function as a ‘scientific fact’ (Kiesler, 2000) suffused within his being? In answering these questions, the researcher aims to abandon his own expectations, as is fitting with the phenomenological method, and to devote his sympathies entirely to the subjective disclosures which, it is hoped, the participants will offer. On this point, an obvious tension exists insofar as expectation and hypothesis necessarily constitute the inception of any research endeavour; and so, the notion of a complete bracketing of assumption and anticipation seems methodologically vague. The explorative impetus within this dissertation aims towards an elucidation of the effect of psychiatric diagnosis on the labelled individual, in terms of the individual’s experience of being-with-others. The impact of the offering of the label upon the individual’s interpersonal and intersubjective presence will be explored so as to establish whether psychiatric labelling unfolds as a disconnection of the individual from his co-existence with others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The phosphorylation and nuclear localization of the co-chaperone murine stress-inducible protein 1
- Authors: Longshaw, Victoria Mary
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Phosphorylation Proteins Heat shock proteins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004038
- Description: The co-chaperone murine stress-inducible protein 1 (mSTI1), a heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70)/ heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) organizing protein (Hop) homologue, mediates the assembly of the Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone heterocomplex. mSTI1 is phosphorylated in vitro by cell cycle kinases, proximal to a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS), substantiating a predicted CKII-cdc2-NLS (CcN) motif at position 189-239. Stable transfectants of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts that expressed mSTI1-EGFP, NLSmSTI1-EGFP and EGFP, were prepared. Fluorescence microscopy revealed mSTI1 was cytoplasmically localized, and that this localization was not affected by the fusion of mSTI1 with the EGFP moiety. NLSmSTI1-EGFP was targeted to the nucleus compared to EGFP, suggesting that the NLSmSTI1 was a functional NLS. The localization of mSTI1 was determined under normal and heat shock conditions, inhibition of nuclear export (leptomycin B), inhibition of CKII 5,6-dichlorobenzimidazole riboside, DRB), inhibition of cdc2 kinase (olomoucine), and G1/S phase arrest (hydroxyurea). mSTI1-EGFP and mSTI1 were excluded from the nucleus in the majority of resting cells, but accumulated in the nucleus following leptomycin B treatment, implying that mSTI1 possibly undergoes a functional import process, and export via the chromosomal region maintenance 1 (CRM-1)-mediated export pathway. Hydroxyurea and olomoucine (but not DRB or heat shock) treatment increased the proportion of cells in which mSTI1-EGFP exhibited cytoplasmic and nuclear localization. 2D gel electrophoresis detected three endogenous mSTI1 isoforms, which changed following hydroxyurea treatment. Furthermore, point inactivation and mimicking of phosphorylatable residues in mSTI1 altered the translocation of the protein and the isoform composition. Modification of mSTI1 at S189 and T198 decreased the number of isoforms of mSTI1-EGFP, suggesting that the protein is modified at these sites in vivo. The removal of the in vitro cdc2 kinase site at T198 promoted a nuclear localization during G1/S phase arrest. Therefore active cdc2 kinase, but not CKII, may be required for cytoplasmic localization of mSTI1. The CKII site appears to have no regulatory role under heat shock conditions or during the cell cycle. In vitro phosphorylation studies on untagged mSTI1 further supported the prediction that S189 is the only site recognised by CKII. The cdc2 kinase site at T198, however, although the major site, was not the only site phosphorylated in vitro. However, mSTI1 and cdc2 kinase did not interact in a detectable stable complex. Bioinformatic analysis of mSTI1 revealed NLS residues were conserved in STI1 proteins, and the NLS and TPR2A motifs were in close proximity. This may have mechanistic implications for the formation of the Hsp90-mSTI1 heterocomplex. The cytoplasmic or nuclear localization of mSTI1 is predicted to be the result of a dynamic equilibrium between nuclear import and nuclear export, the fulcrum of which may be shifted under different cell cycle conditions. These data provide the first evidence of regulated nuclear import/export of a major Hsp70/Hsp90 co-chaperone, and the regulation of this nuclear import by cell cycle status and cell cycle kinases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Longshaw, Victoria Mary
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Phosphorylation Proteins Heat shock proteins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3979 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004038
- Description: The co-chaperone murine stress-inducible protein 1 (mSTI1), a heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70)/ heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) organizing protein (Hop) homologue, mediates the assembly of the Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone heterocomplex. mSTI1 is phosphorylated in vitro by cell cycle kinases, proximal to a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS), substantiating a predicted CKII-cdc2-NLS (CcN) motif at position 189-239. Stable transfectants of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts that expressed mSTI1-EGFP, NLSmSTI1-EGFP and EGFP, were prepared. Fluorescence microscopy revealed mSTI1 was cytoplasmically localized, and that this localization was not affected by the fusion of mSTI1 with the EGFP moiety. NLSmSTI1-EGFP was targeted to the nucleus compared to EGFP, suggesting that the NLSmSTI1 was a functional NLS. The localization of mSTI1 was determined under normal and heat shock conditions, inhibition of nuclear export (leptomycin B), inhibition of CKII 5,6-dichlorobenzimidazole riboside, DRB), inhibition of cdc2 kinase (olomoucine), and G1/S phase arrest (hydroxyurea). mSTI1-EGFP and mSTI1 were excluded from the nucleus in the majority of resting cells, but accumulated in the nucleus following leptomycin B treatment, implying that mSTI1 possibly undergoes a functional import process, and export via the chromosomal region maintenance 1 (CRM-1)-mediated export pathway. Hydroxyurea and olomoucine (but not DRB or heat shock) treatment increased the proportion of cells in which mSTI1-EGFP exhibited cytoplasmic and nuclear localization. 2D gel electrophoresis detected three endogenous mSTI1 isoforms, which changed following hydroxyurea treatment. Furthermore, point inactivation and mimicking of phosphorylatable residues in mSTI1 altered the translocation of the protein and the isoform composition. Modification of mSTI1 at S189 and T198 decreased the number of isoforms of mSTI1-EGFP, suggesting that the protein is modified at these sites in vivo. The removal of the in vitro cdc2 kinase site at T198 promoted a nuclear localization during G1/S phase arrest. Therefore active cdc2 kinase, but not CKII, may be required for cytoplasmic localization of mSTI1. The CKII site appears to have no regulatory role under heat shock conditions or during the cell cycle. In vitro phosphorylation studies on untagged mSTI1 further supported the prediction that S189 is the only site recognised by CKII. The cdc2 kinase site at T198, however, although the major site, was not the only site phosphorylated in vitro. However, mSTI1 and cdc2 kinase did not interact in a detectable stable complex. Bioinformatic analysis of mSTI1 revealed NLS residues were conserved in STI1 proteins, and the NLS and TPR2A motifs were in close proximity. This may have mechanistic implications for the formation of the Hsp90-mSTI1 heterocomplex. The cytoplasmic or nuclear localization of mSTI1 is predicted to be the result of a dynamic equilibrium between nuclear import and nuclear export, the fulcrum of which may be shifted under different cell cycle conditions. These data provide the first evidence of regulated nuclear import/export of a major Hsp70/Hsp90 co-chaperone, and the regulation of this nuclear import by cell cycle status and cell cycle kinases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The potential of abalone stock enhancement in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Godfrey, Brian Peter
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Abalones -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abalone culture , Abalone fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005157 , Abalones -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abalone culture , Abalone fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The largest abalone in South Africa, the perlemoen, Haliotis midae, occurs along approximately two-thirds of the country's coastline, but has only been the target of an extensive commercial fishery in the south-western part of South Africa. Large-scale illegal fishing has however proliferated throughout its entire range over the last 10–15 years, which has had serious effects on stock abundance and once productive populations are facing economic collapse. Abalone stock enhancement has been put forward as an addition or alternative to traditional fisheries management practices, which can potentially rehabilitate overfished abalone populations and enhance natural production. The aim of this project was to investigate the potential of abalone stock enhancement for managing an area in the Eastern Cape Province, which was being subjected to intense illegal fishing pressure. A research approach was adopted to investigate the scale and effects of this poaching and to investigate the survival of artificially cultured abalone seed in the natural environment. A model of a commercial-scale ranching operation was investigated to assess the economic feasibility of such a scheme. Analysis of poaching cases and research samples from Cape Recife indicated high levels of fishing effort that appeared to be causing the observed declines in emergent abalone abundance and average size. Poaching cases from Cape Recife contributed 32% of the total number of cases of known origin in the Eastern Cape Province from 1998–2002, with the majority of the cases (82%) originating from within the Port Elizabeth metropole. There was an exponential increase in the number of poaching cases in the Eastern Cape Province (r²=0.967) and Port Elizabeth over this period but actual annual total catch stabilized, particularly at Cape Recife, where estimates of CPUE declined significantly from 2000–2002 (p<0.001). The annual proportion of emergent abalone under the MLS from Cape Recife was always >85% in confiscations and research collections, and did not change significantly over the period of examination. Comparison of illegal catches with an adjacent site indicated that the emergent abalone population at Cape Recife had a significantly higher proportion of undersized emergent animals (p<0.001) and they were significantly smaller than the abalone from the closest site, Noordhoek, and other areas in Port Elizabeth from 2000–2002 (p<0.001). The apparent declines in emergent abalone abundance indicated by the poaching data were corroborated by sampling of emergent abalone abundance at Cape Recife. Numbers of abalone declined significantly from 125.6 to 53.8 per 20min count (p<0.001), from April 1998–October 2001 and density declined from 1.3 to 0.8m⁻² over a similar period (p<0.001). Juvenile density did not change over this period, although there were significant differences in density observed between two different habitats (p<0.001). Initial releases of cultured juvenile abalone showed that they could be distinguished from their wild counterparts for at least a year after release, by their different shell colouration. Short-term, small-scale trials (7–10 days) using animals between 17 and 30mm SL had mean survival rates of 64–82% (mean 70.4%) and the effect of size on survival was not significant in most cases, although the power to detect differences was low. Attempts to measure the effect of habitat on survival were not conclusive, although refuges under sea urchins appeared to be favoured by both seed and wild abalone, although urchins were not an absolute requirement for survival. Similar medium-term trials (31–74 days) in sheltered sites yielded mean returns of 53.1% using 25mm SL animals and similar trials in a more exposed area had more variable survival rates of between 18.4 and 73.6%, after 25–27 days. A comparison between careful hand-seeding and surface-scattering seed release methods in the open-ocean habitat showed no significant differences in survival rate after 41 days. Larger seed survived significantly better than the smaller seed when scattered on the surface (p<0.0001) and the smaller seed survived significantly better when seeded carefully by hand onto the substrate (p<0.028). Further medium-term releases of large numbers of seed abalone, released using the surface-scattering method in open-ocean habitat, gave mean survival rates of 32.8% over periods of 83–114 days. Assessment of a seeding trial using release modules to seed juvenile animals in the open-ocean was hampered by poor sea conditions and difficult to search substrates, and a mean recovery rate of 3.1% was obtained for the sites that were sampled. Movement of seed was low in the more sheltered sites, and also appeared to be affected by the amount of available habitat. Growth of seed was measured using changes in shell colouration and there were significant differences between areas. An average growth of 1.6mm.month⁻¹ shell length was calculated for all areas. The potential for commercial scale abalone ranching to be used to enhance a territorial user right fishery was investigated using a model of economic feasibility. Internal rates of return of 30.3 and 36.9% were obtained from two harvest regimes using different harvest sizes. There was a high degree of risk associated with these figures owing to a lack of consistent seed survival rate estimates, and the input parameters, which are subject to variation, showed a significant effect on profitability. The operation of this type of ranching scheme is probably not economically feasible as a stand-alone operation but could probably be operated effectively in conjunction with an existing abalone farm. By adding a small wild catch component the profitability of a ranching scheme could be significantly improved. The results of the present study indicate that high levels of poaching at Cape Recife have led to declines in emergent abalone abundance, which will probably lead to stock collapse in the near future. This implies that fisheries managers have failed to fulfil the provisions of fisheries policy in South Africa. The present results from seeding trials show that cultured juveniles can survive and make a contribution to overall stock abundance. Furthermore, while there are obstacles to economic feasibility, commercial ranching has the potential to be a valuable addition to current abalone management strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Godfrey, Brian Peter
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Abalones -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abalone culture , Abalone fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005157 , Abalones -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abalone culture , Abalone fisheries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The largest abalone in South Africa, the perlemoen, Haliotis midae, occurs along approximately two-thirds of the country's coastline, but has only been the target of an extensive commercial fishery in the south-western part of South Africa. Large-scale illegal fishing has however proliferated throughout its entire range over the last 10–15 years, which has had serious effects on stock abundance and once productive populations are facing economic collapse. Abalone stock enhancement has been put forward as an addition or alternative to traditional fisheries management practices, which can potentially rehabilitate overfished abalone populations and enhance natural production. The aim of this project was to investigate the potential of abalone stock enhancement for managing an area in the Eastern Cape Province, which was being subjected to intense illegal fishing pressure. A research approach was adopted to investigate the scale and effects of this poaching and to investigate the survival of artificially cultured abalone seed in the natural environment. A model of a commercial-scale ranching operation was investigated to assess the economic feasibility of such a scheme. Analysis of poaching cases and research samples from Cape Recife indicated high levels of fishing effort that appeared to be causing the observed declines in emergent abalone abundance and average size. Poaching cases from Cape Recife contributed 32% of the total number of cases of known origin in the Eastern Cape Province from 1998–2002, with the majority of the cases (82%) originating from within the Port Elizabeth metropole. There was an exponential increase in the number of poaching cases in the Eastern Cape Province (r²=0.967) and Port Elizabeth over this period but actual annual total catch stabilized, particularly at Cape Recife, where estimates of CPUE declined significantly from 2000–2002 (p<0.001). The annual proportion of emergent abalone under the MLS from Cape Recife was always >85% in confiscations and research collections, and did not change significantly over the period of examination. Comparison of illegal catches with an adjacent site indicated that the emergent abalone population at Cape Recife had a significantly higher proportion of undersized emergent animals (p<0.001) and they were significantly smaller than the abalone from the closest site, Noordhoek, and other areas in Port Elizabeth from 2000–2002 (p<0.001). The apparent declines in emergent abalone abundance indicated by the poaching data were corroborated by sampling of emergent abalone abundance at Cape Recife. Numbers of abalone declined significantly from 125.6 to 53.8 per 20min count (p<0.001), from April 1998–October 2001 and density declined from 1.3 to 0.8m⁻² over a similar period (p<0.001). Juvenile density did not change over this period, although there were significant differences in density observed between two different habitats (p<0.001). Initial releases of cultured juvenile abalone showed that they could be distinguished from their wild counterparts for at least a year after release, by their different shell colouration. Short-term, small-scale trials (7–10 days) using animals between 17 and 30mm SL had mean survival rates of 64–82% (mean 70.4%) and the effect of size on survival was not significant in most cases, although the power to detect differences was low. Attempts to measure the effect of habitat on survival were not conclusive, although refuges under sea urchins appeared to be favoured by both seed and wild abalone, although urchins were not an absolute requirement for survival. Similar medium-term trials (31–74 days) in sheltered sites yielded mean returns of 53.1% using 25mm SL animals and similar trials in a more exposed area had more variable survival rates of between 18.4 and 73.6%, after 25–27 days. A comparison between careful hand-seeding and surface-scattering seed release methods in the open-ocean habitat showed no significant differences in survival rate after 41 days. Larger seed survived significantly better than the smaller seed when scattered on the surface (p<0.0001) and the smaller seed survived significantly better when seeded carefully by hand onto the substrate (p<0.028). Further medium-term releases of large numbers of seed abalone, released using the surface-scattering method in open-ocean habitat, gave mean survival rates of 32.8% over periods of 83–114 days. Assessment of a seeding trial using release modules to seed juvenile animals in the open-ocean was hampered by poor sea conditions and difficult to search substrates, and a mean recovery rate of 3.1% was obtained for the sites that were sampled. Movement of seed was low in the more sheltered sites, and also appeared to be affected by the amount of available habitat. Growth of seed was measured using changes in shell colouration and there were significant differences between areas. An average growth of 1.6mm.month⁻¹ shell length was calculated for all areas. The potential for commercial scale abalone ranching to be used to enhance a territorial user right fishery was investigated using a model of economic feasibility. Internal rates of return of 30.3 and 36.9% were obtained from two harvest regimes using different harvest sizes. There was a high degree of risk associated with these figures owing to a lack of consistent seed survival rate estimates, and the input parameters, which are subject to variation, showed a significant effect on profitability. The operation of this type of ranching scheme is probably not economically feasible as a stand-alone operation but could probably be operated effectively in conjunction with an existing abalone farm. By adding a small wild catch component the profitability of a ranching scheme could be significantly improved. The results of the present study indicate that high levels of poaching at Cape Recife have led to declines in emergent abalone abundance, which will probably lead to stock collapse in the near future. This implies that fisheries managers have failed to fulfil the provisions of fisheries policy in South Africa. The present results from seeding trials show that cultured juveniles can survive and make a contribution to overall stock abundance. Furthermore, while there are obstacles to economic feasibility, commercial ranching has the potential to be a valuable addition to current abalone management strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The prevalence of use and value of wild edible herbs in South Africa
- Authors: Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6652 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007063
- Description: The prevalence of use and commercial value of wild edible herbs in South Africa is examined from four recent quantitative studies at eight different sites. The use of wild edible herbs was widespread in rural communities, with over 90% of households using them in all but one sample site. Mean frequency of use in season was generally between two and five times per week, with a mean of four times across all sites. But many households consume them daily. Use in winter was less than in summer. The mass of wild edible herbs consumed ranged from 12 kg to over 130 kg per household per year. Local (farm-gate) prices ranged from R2.65 to R72 per kilogram, but were generally between R30 and R40 per kg. Direct-use value to consuming households ranged from R85 to almost R5000 across the eight sites, with a mean of R1020 per user household per year. Although harvesting of wild herbs takes time, the high gross direct-use value represents a considerable saving on having to purchase commercial alternatives. Key species differ from place to place both in availability and use, and include both indigenous and exotic species. Commonly used genera include Amaranthus, Bidens, Chenopodium, Cleome, Corchorus, and Momordica. The use, value and trade in wild edible herbs currently receives no recognition in land and agrarian reform policies. It is imperative that this be addressed, and the relationships between rural livelihoods, use of wild edible herbs, food security, and land and resource tenure be clarified, and debated within the policy forums around different models for, and delivery of, agrarian reform and rural development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6652 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007063
- Description: The prevalence of use and commercial value of wild edible herbs in South Africa is examined from four recent quantitative studies at eight different sites. The use of wild edible herbs was widespread in rural communities, with over 90% of households using them in all but one sample site. Mean frequency of use in season was generally between two and five times per week, with a mean of four times across all sites. But many households consume them daily. Use in winter was less than in summer. The mass of wild edible herbs consumed ranged from 12 kg to over 130 kg per household per year. Local (farm-gate) prices ranged from R2.65 to R72 per kilogram, but were generally between R30 and R40 per kg. Direct-use value to consuming households ranged from R85 to almost R5000 across the eight sites, with a mean of R1020 per user household per year. Although harvesting of wild herbs takes time, the high gross direct-use value represents a considerable saving on having to purchase commercial alternatives. Key species differ from place to place both in availability and use, and include both indigenous and exotic species. Commonly used genera include Amaranthus, Bidens, Chenopodium, Cleome, Corchorus, and Momordica. The use, value and trade in wild edible herbs currently receives no recognition in land and agrarian reform policies. It is imperative that this be addressed, and the relationships between rural livelihoods, use of wild edible herbs, food security, and land and resource tenure be clarified, and debated within the policy forums around different models for, and delivery of, agrarian reform and rural development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The process of coping and self-management in the experience of recovering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
- Authors: Andrews, Karen Joyce
- Date: 2003 , 2013-05-20
- Subjects: Chronic fatigue syndrome , Chronic fatigue syndrome -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003132 , Chronic fatigue syndrome , Chronic fatigue syndrome -- Psychological aspects
- Description: A hermeneutical model of doing research is adopted to investigate the process of coping and self-management in the experience of recovering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Three research participants who consider themselves as recovering or recovered from CFS were interviewed to obtain data for analysis. The findings are that once the participants cope with the uncertainty about the meaning of the onset of symptoms by defining themselves as ill in somatic terms, the participants use external social and treatment resources to cope with the onset of symptoms and being chronically ill with CFS. As a consequence of feeling stigmatised in relation to social and professional scepticism about initially being ill and subsequently, being chronically ill with CFS, the participants become uncertain about the meaning of having CFS. Coping shifts to using internal resources by adopting self-management practises. In this process, firstly, existing self-management shifts in such a way that the participants view themselves as recovering or recovered from CFS, and secondly, the participants come to the understanding that difficulties with self-management cause and maintain CFS. The findings are discussed to conclude that CFS may be a misdiagnosis of difficulties with self-management. CFS itself may not be an 'objective' disorder, but a constituent of social processes. Becoming diagnosed with CFS arises as a consequence of the search for meaning in relation to the lay and professional assumption that psychological illness does not constitute 'real' illness, operating at both the levels of popular society and the doctor-patient relationship. Difficulties with self-management rather than the diagnosis of CFS provide a more adequate understariding of the participants' illnesses. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Andrews, Karen Joyce
- Date: 2003 , 2013-05-20
- Subjects: Chronic fatigue syndrome , Chronic fatigue syndrome -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003132 , Chronic fatigue syndrome , Chronic fatigue syndrome -- Psychological aspects
- Description: A hermeneutical model of doing research is adopted to investigate the process of coping and self-management in the experience of recovering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Three research participants who consider themselves as recovering or recovered from CFS were interviewed to obtain data for analysis. The findings are that once the participants cope with the uncertainty about the meaning of the onset of symptoms by defining themselves as ill in somatic terms, the participants use external social and treatment resources to cope with the onset of symptoms and being chronically ill with CFS. As a consequence of feeling stigmatised in relation to social and professional scepticism about initially being ill and subsequently, being chronically ill with CFS, the participants become uncertain about the meaning of having CFS. Coping shifts to using internal resources by adopting self-management practises. In this process, firstly, existing self-management shifts in such a way that the participants view themselves as recovering or recovered from CFS, and secondly, the participants come to the understanding that difficulties with self-management cause and maintain CFS. The findings are discussed to conclude that CFS may be a misdiagnosis of difficulties with self-management. CFS itself may not be an 'objective' disorder, but a constituent of social processes. Becoming diagnosed with CFS arises as a consequence of the search for meaning in relation to the lay and professional assumption that psychological illness does not constitute 'real' illness, operating at both the levels of popular society and the doctor-patient relationship. Difficulties with self-management rather than the diagnosis of CFS provide a more adequate understariding of the participants' illnesses. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The proof of the pudding: the presentation and proof of expert evidence in South Africa
- Meintjes–Van Der Walt, Lirieka
- Authors: Meintjes–Van Der Walt, Lirieka
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012403 , http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=170233
- Description: Imagine, as one may well imagine at this time of the day, a chocolate mousse, dark and delectable, or a tempting tiramasu or a perfect pavlova. How are you going to decide which is best? Yes, indeed the actual presentation of the puddings may influence your choice, but to be able to make an informed choice, you would need to taste them. Do you have to make the choice according to your own taste, or do you have to decide which should go best with your menu for your dinner party? If you have to decide which is best, you would have to be able to rank them in relation to other mousses, tiramasus or pavlovas. You need to know the ingredients, and for a professional decision you would need some knowledge of the art of cooking. Proof in the art of cooking, science, and also in law depends on the quantum and quality of evidence or data sufficient to support a conclusion. Loevinger concludes that “[p]roof ultimately depends on the ability of the human mind to make appropriate and useful distinctions and connections among data or items of evidence”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Meintjes–Van Der Walt, Lirieka
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012403 , http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=170233
- Description: Imagine, as one may well imagine at this time of the day, a chocolate mousse, dark and delectable, or a tempting tiramasu or a perfect pavlova. How are you going to decide which is best? Yes, indeed the actual presentation of the puddings may influence your choice, but to be able to make an informed choice, you would need to taste them. Do you have to make the choice according to your own taste, or do you have to decide which should go best with your menu for your dinner party? If you have to decide which is best, you would have to be able to rank them in relation to other mousses, tiramasus or pavlovas. You need to know the ingredients, and for a professional decision you would need some knowledge of the art of cooking. Proof in the art of cooking, science, and also in law depends on the quantum and quality of evidence or data sufficient to support a conclusion. Loevinger concludes that “[p]roof ultimately depends on the ability of the human mind to make appropriate and useful distinctions and connections among data or items of evidence”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The reading preferences of grade 11 ESL learners in Grahamstown
- Authors: Rasana, Nomakhosazana Hazel
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers -- South Africa Reading (Secondary) -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1721 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003604
- Description: This survey investigates learners’ reading preferences in selected Eastern Cape secondary schools where English is taught as a second language. It seeks to understand the reading patterns and interests of Grade 11s, and the role played by parents, teachers, school and public libraries in promoting a love for reading. Focus group interviews and questionnaires were used to gather data over a period of six weeks. All Grade 11 learners from eight Grahamstown secondary schools where English is taught as a second language participated. Data was analysed using Biomedical Data Programme Statistical Software (BMDP). Chi-square (X ²) tests and t-tests for proportions were used specifically to determine significant differences in the groups (i.e. gender effect, schools and language effect). The data suggest that ESL Grade 11s: 1) do have preferred reading material; 2) have preferred authors; 3) have a preferred language they read in; and 4) read for information. Limited access to reading material affects their reading patterns and ability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Rasana, Nomakhosazana Hazel
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers -- South Africa Reading (Secondary) -- South Africa English language -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1721 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003604
- Description: This survey investigates learners’ reading preferences in selected Eastern Cape secondary schools where English is taught as a second language. It seeks to understand the reading patterns and interests of Grade 11s, and the role played by parents, teachers, school and public libraries in promoting a love for reading. Focus group interviews and questionnaires were used to gather data over a period of six weeks. All Grade 11 learners from eight Grahamstown secondary schools where English is taught as a second language participated. Data was analysed using Biomedical Data Programme Statistical Software (BMDP). Chi-square (X ²) tests and t-tests for proportions were used specifically to determine significant differences in the groups (i.e. gender effect, schools and language effect). The data suggest that ESL Grade 11s: 1) do have preferred reading material; 2) have preferred authors; 3) have a preferred language they read in; and 4) read for information. Limited access to reading material affects their reading patterns and ability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The regulation of domain name disputes in South Africa
- Authors: Nyachowe, Pasno N
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Trademarks -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/351 , Trademarks -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise provides an overview of the procedures for the registration, regulation and protection of Internet domain names. An analysis of legal rules applicable to domain names and problems related to the protection of domain names in South Africa, United State, United Kingdom and internationally is undertaken. The problems includes cybersquatting, misuse of personal names, reverse domain hijacking, misuse of meta tags and keywords. The treatise established possible solutions applicable to South Africa by investigating how other countries have dealt with such problems, and further investigated the extent to which South African legislation is suited to deal with such problems. An investigation of the regulation in terms of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002 is briefly attempted, and proposals for the future on the South African domain name system suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Nyachowe, Pasno N
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Trademarks -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/351 , Trademarks -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation , Internet domain names -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Dispute resolution (Law) -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise provides an overview of the procedures for the registration, regulation and protection of Internet domain names. An analysis of legal rules applicable to domain names and problems related to the protection of domain names in South Africa, United State, United Kingdom and internationally is undertaken. The problems includes cybersquatting, misuse of personal names, reverse domain hijacking, misuse of meta tags and keywords. The treatise established possible solutions applicable to South Africa by investigating how other countries have dealt with such problems, and further investigated the extent to which South African legislation is suited to deal with such problems. An investigation of the regulation in terms of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002 is briefly attempted, and proposals for the future on the South African domain name system suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The role of bank finance in small firm growth : a case study
- Authors: Musengi, Sandra
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1176 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002793 , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Description: The debate concerning small firm access to finance continues. The proliferation of research of the issue underlines the importance attached in promoting a strong entrepreneurial culture within a country. Small firms are significant to economic growth if they are growing. Central to this significance is ascertaining the role of finance and in particular bank finance in accelerating small growth potential. The case study, through its ontological, epistemological and methodological position, draws on a document review and interview material from small firm owners and key informants to explore the role of bank finance in small firm growth. Case study evidence reveals that small firm owners do not intend to finance firm growth with bank finance but prefer to finance growth with internally generated funds. The owners indicate that non-financial and behavioural factors, such as, maintaining decision-making control, experience accessing bank finance, the perception of the banking relationship and growth aspirations of owners may be more important in dertermining the finance structure for firm growth. From the bank's perspective, findings suggest that risk assessment, financial viability of the enterprise and provision of collateral are more important in the lending decisions; findings supported by an analysis of selected documents. The small sample of small firm owners, bank representatives, experts and documents makes it difficult to generalize the findings. However, the findings are significant because exploring the issue from different perspectives presents invaluable insights, which can be investigated further to assist small firm owners, to develop finance products geared for small firm operations, and in the development of the knowledge base on finance-related issues in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Musengi, Sandra
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1176 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002793 , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Description: The debate concerning small firm access to finance continues. The proliferation of research of the issue underlines the importance attached in promoting a strong entrepreneurial culture within a country. Small firms are significant to economic growth if they are growing. Central to this significance is ascertaining the role of finance and in particular bank finance in accelerating small growth potential. The case study, through its ontological, epistemological and methodological position, draws on a document review and interview material from small firm owners and key informants to explore the role of bank finance in small firm growth. Case study evidence reveals that small firm owners do not intend to finance firm growth with bank finance but prefer to finance growth with internally generated funds. The owners indicate that non-financial and behavioural factors, such as, maintaining decision-making control, experience accessing bank finance, the perception of the banking relationship and growth aspirations of owners may be more important in dertermining the finance structure for firm growth. From the bank's perspective, findings suggest that risk assessment, financial viability of the enterprise and provision of collateral are more important in the lending decisions; findings supported by an analysis of selected documents. The small sample of small firm owners, bank representatives, experts and documents makes it difficult to generalize the findings. However, the findings are significant because exploring the issue from different perspectives presents invaluable insights, which can be investigated further to assist small firm owners, to develop finance products geared for small firm operations, and in the development of the knowledge base on finance-related issues in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The role of estuarine type in characterizing early stage fish assemblages in warm temperate estuaries, South Africa
- Strydom, Nadine A, Whitfield, Alan K, Wooldridge, T H
- Authors: Strydom, Nadine A , Whitfield, Alan K , Wooldridge, T H
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447658 , vital:74664 , https://doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2003.11657192
- Description: Assemblages of early stage fishes (larval and early juvenile stages) were investigated and compared in seven permanently open and five intermittently open estuarine systems on the warm temperate Eastern Cape coast of South Africa. Estuarine type, by virtue of mouth state and prevailing physico chemical conditions, played a defining role in the structure of these fish assemblages. Clupeidae and Gobiidae were the dominant fish families in both estuarine types. Permanently open estuaries were characterized by the predominance of larvae and early juveniles of estuary dependent marine fish species while estuary resident fishes dominated intermittently open estuaries. Seasonal changes were observed in species density and diversity in both estuarine types. Species richness and diversity were highest in the permanently open Swartkops Estuary that is characterized by large nursery habitat availability. Species diversity was high in estuaries with a good supply of freshwater, that results in good recruitment of estuary dependent marine species. Similarly, freshwater deprived estuaries also displayed high species diversity and this was due to the higher incidence of marine straggler species in these systems. Salinity zones appeared to play a significant role in both species density and the presence or absence of species in both estuarine types. Mesohaline zones were found to be the most productive in terms of accumulator regions for larval stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Strydom, Nadine A , Whitfield, Alan K , Wooldridge, T H
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447658 , vital:74664 , https://doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2003.11657192
- Description: Assemblages of early stage fishes (larval and early juvenile stages) were investigated and compared in seven permanently open and five intermittently open estuarine systems on the warm temperate Eastern Cape coast of South Africa. Estuarine type, by virtue of mouth state and prevailing physico chemical conditions, played a defining role in the structure of these fish assemblages. Clupeidae and Gobiidae were the dominant fish families in both estuarine types. Permanently open estuaries were characterized by the predominance of larvae and early juveniles of estuary dependent marine fish species while estuary resident fishes dominated intermittently open estuaries. Seasonal changes were observed in species density and diversity in both estuarine types. Species richness and diversity were highest in the permanently open Swartkops Estuary that is characterized by large nursery habitat availability. Species diversity was high in estuaries with a good supply of freshwater, that results in good recruitment of estuary dependent marine species. Similarly, freshwater deprived estuaries also displayed high species diversity and this was due to the higher incidence of marine straggler species in these systems. Salinity zones appeared to play a significant role in both species density and the presence or absence of species in both estuarine types. Mesohaline zones were found to be the most productive in terms of accumulator regions for larval stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The social construction of "sexual knowledge": exploring the narratives of southern African youth of Indian descent in the context of HIV/AIDS
- Authors: Esat, Fazila
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , Youth -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002479 , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , Youth -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa
- Description: This study pays attention to youth of Indian-descent within the context of sexuality and identity and their role in HIV/AIDS. By gaining an understanding of this interaction between identity and sexuality, it adds to our knowledge of the social dynamics that contribute to the prevalence or lack of prevalence of HIV/AIDS within population groups. This study uses a social constructionist discourse analytic framework and aims to explore the construction of sexual knowledge by Southern African youth of Indian-descent. The findings indicate that the construction of sex is primarily one of risk and ambiguity. Additionally, the construction of sexual knowledge highlights the significance of gender differentials and the importance of agency and responsibility for sexual education. These constructions reinforce traditional educational roles that contribute to the construction of sex as risky and ambiguous. In addition, a social identity of Indian-ness and othering is used as a strategy to give meaning to the lack of parental responsibility with regard to sexual education. The use of social identity is seen as highlighting the importance of acknowledging the sexual values within which youth are embedded. This study concludes with possible ways to shift these constructions. For example, one of the conclusions suggests the implementation of an alternative school-based sexual education that acknowledges the sexual values in which youth are embedded. Furthermore, this acknowledgement of sexual values should take place within a holistic sex education programme that is positive about sexuality. Additionally, a reframing of youth as capable and active decision-makers in their sexual education is necessitated in order to see youth as a potential resource in HIV/AIDS prevention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Esat, Fazila
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , Youth -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2970 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002479 , East Indians -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Youth -- South Africa -- Attitudes , East Indians -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , Youth -- South Africa -- Sexual behavior , AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Social aspects -- South Africa
- Description: This study pays attention to youth of Indian-descent within the context of sexuality and identity and their role in HIV/AIDS. By gaining an understanding of this interaction between identity and sexuality, it adds to our knowledge of the social dynamics that contribute to the prevalence or lack of prevalence of HIV/AIDS within population groups. This study uses a social constructionist discourse analytic framework and aims to explore the construction of sexual knowledge by Southern African youth of Indian-descent. The findings indicate that the construction of sex is primarily one of risk and ambiguity. Additionally, the construction of sexual knowledge highlights the significance of gender differentials and the importance of agency and responsibility for sexual education. These constructions reinforce traditional educational roles that contribute to the construction of sex as risky and ambiguous. In addition, a social identity of Indian-ness and othering is used as a strategy to give meaning to the lack of parental responsibility with regard to sexual education. The use of social identity is seen as highlighting the importance of acknowledging the sexual values within which youth are embedded. This study concludes with possible ways to shift these constructions. For example, one of the conclusions suggests the implementation of an alternative school-based sexual education that acknowledges the sexual values in which youth are embedded. Furthermore, this acknowledgement of sexual values should take place within a holistic sex education programme that is positive about sexuality. Additionally, a reframing of youth as capable and active decision-makers in their sexual education is necessitated in order to see youth as a potential resource in HIV/AIDS prevention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The specification and design of a prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring tool
- Authors: Viljoen, Deon Walter
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: MPEG (Video coding standard) , Digital video -- Standards , Multimedia systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11092 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015741 , MPEG (Video coding standard) , Digital video -- Standards , Multimedia systems
- Description: The purpose of this project was the specification, design and implementation of a prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring tool. A literature study was conducted of the MPEG-4 standard and multimedia authoring tools to determine the specification and design of a prototype 2- D MPEG-4 authoring tool. The specification and design was used as a basis for the implementation of a prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring tool that complies with the Complete 2-D Scene Graph Profile. The need for research into MPEG-4 authoring tools arose from the reported lack of knowledge of the MPEG-4 standard and the limited implementations of MPEG-4 authoring tools available to content authors. In order for MPEG-4 to reach its full potential, it will require authoring tools and content players that satisfy the needs of its users. The theoretical component of this dissertation included a literature study of the MPEG-4 standard and an investigation of relevant multimedia authoring systems. MPEG-4 was introduced as a standard that allows for the creation and streaming of interactive multimedia content at variable bit rates over high and low bandwidth connections. The requirements for the prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring system were documented and a prototype system satisfying the requirements was designed, implemented and evaluated. The evaluation of the prototype system showed that the system successfully satisfied all its requirements and that it provides the user with an easy to use and intuitive authoring tool. MPEG-4 has the potential to satisfy the increasing demand for innovative multimedia content on low bandwidth networks, including the Internet and mobile networks, as well as the need expressed by users to interact with multimedia content. This dissertation makes an important contribution to the understanding of the MPEG-4 standard, its functionality and the design of a 2-D MPEG-4 Authoring tool. Keywords: MPEG-4; MPEG-4 authoring; Binary Format for Scenes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Viljoen, Deon Walter
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: MPEG (Video coding standard) , Digital video -- Standards , Multimedia systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11092 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015741 , MPEG (Video coding standard) , Digital video -- Standards , Multimedia systems
- Description: The purpose of this project was the specification, design and implementation of a prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring tool. A literature study was conducted of the MPEG-4 standard and multimedia authoring tools to determine the specification and design of a prototype 2- D MPEG-4 authoring tool. The specification and design was used as a basis for the implementation of a prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring tool that complies with the Complete 2-D Scene Graph Profile. The need for research into MPEG-4 authoring tools arose from the reported lack of knowledge of the MPEG-4 standard and the limited implementations of MPEG-4 authoring tools available to content authors. In order for MPEG-4 to reach its full potential, it will require authoring tools and content players that satisfy the needs of its users. The theoretical component of this dissertation included a literature study of the MPEG-4 standard and an investigation of relevant multimedia authoring systems. MPEG-4 was introduced as a standard that allows for the creation and streaming of interactive multimedia content at variable bit rates over high and low bandwidth connections. The requirements for the prototype 2-D MPEG-4 authoring system were documented and a prototype system satisfying the requirements was designed, implemented and evaluated. The evaluation of the prototype system showed that the system successfully satisfied all its requirements and that it provides the user with an easy to use and intuitive authoring tool. MPEG-4 has the potential to satisfy the increasing demand for innovative multimedia content on low bandwidth networks, including the Internet and mobile networks, as well as the need expressed by users to interact with multimedia content. This dissertation makes an important contribution to the understanding of the MPEG-4 standard, its functionality and the design of a 2-D MPEG-4 Authoring tool. Keywords: MPEG-4; MPEG-4 authoring; Binary Format for Scenes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The stories in the details:
- Authors: Kyazze, Simwogerere
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159177 , vital:40274 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146272
- Description: A famous journalism adage is that "the story is in the details". For the world Information Society, those details might be in the mind-blowing technological advances in recent years and the dizzying alternative news sources; and in the increased novelty in story telling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Kyazze, Simwogerere
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/159177 , vital:40274 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146272
- Description: A famous journalism adage is that "the story is in the details". For the world Information Society, those details might be in the mind-blowing technological advances in recent years and the dizzying alternative news sources; and in the increased novelty in story telling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The structure of ant communities and their impact on soil-pupating pests in citrus orchards in the Grahamstown area of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Bownes, Angela
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Ants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pests -- Control -- South Africa , Homoptera -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5775 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005463 , Ants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pests -- Control -- South Africa , Homoptera -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Two ant species, Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius) and Anoplolepis custodiens (Smith) reach pest status in citrus orchards through precipitating outbreaks of homopterous pests. However, predacious ants, including these two ant species, play an important role in pest suppression in agroecosystems and are therefore beneficial to these systems. If A. custodiens and P. megacephala are important natural control agents in citrus, using ant bands to break the mutualism between the ants and the Homoptera as a method of ant control is preferable to poisoning. Ant communities were sampled by pitfall trapping in three experimental subunits of 2-, 4-, 15- and 30-year-old citrus orchards, in the Grahamstown area of the Eastern Cape. In one subunit in each orchard, populations of P. megacephala and A. custodiens were suppressed by poison applications. In a second subunit, trees were banded with trunk barriers so that ants were prevented from foraging in the trees and a third subunit served as the untreated control. Bait pupae of bollworm, false codling moth and fruit fly were planted in bait trays in all of the subunits to investigate predation on these citrus pests in the relative absence of predacious ants and where they were excluded from the trees. Pheidole megacephala dominated exclusively in all of the plots. Community composition did not change dramatically with increasing age of the trees, but species diversity and species abundance did. Rank-abundance curves showed that community diversity was highest in the 2-year-old plots and lowest in the 30-year-old plots. The Simpson and Shannon-Wiener diversity indices and their evenness measures indicated that diversity and equitability were highest in the poisoned subunits and lowest in the banded subunits. Principle component analysis revealed that the poisoned subunits were similar and distinct in species composition, that there was significant monthly variation in species composition and that community stability increases with an increase in orchard age. The presence of P. megacephala was significantly negatively correlated (rs = -0.293; p < 0.001) with pest pupal survival. Pupal survival was significantly higher for bollworm (p < 0.001), FCM (p < 0.001) and fruit fly (p < 0.001) in the poisoned subunits, than in the banded and control subunits. There was a general trend for survivorship to increase with an increase in the age of the trees. A significant difference (p < 0.001) was found between the months in which the trials were carried out. Pupal survival was significantly lower (p < 0.001) for FCM than for bollworm and fruit fly. In citrus orchards, ant communities are organised by ecological processes and interactions and are influenced by methods of ant control. Ant bands are preferable to poisoning as a method of ant control, so that beneficial species are left on the ground to prey on pests that pupate in the soil. Maintaining high ant species diversity in citrus orchards would be beneficial as predation on the pupae was more effective where ant species diversity was higher.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Bownes, Angela
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Ants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pests -- Control -- South Africa , Homoptera -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5775 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005463 , Ants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Pests -- Control -- South Africa , Homoptera -- Control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Two ant species, Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius) and Anoplolepis custodiens (Smith) reach pest status in citrus orchards through precipitating outbreaks of homopterous pests. However, predacious ants, including these two ant species, play an important role in pest suppression in agroecosystems and are therefore beneficial to these systems. If A. custodiens and P. megacephala are important natural control agents in citrus, using ant bands to break the mutualism between the ants and the Homoptera as a method of ant control is preferable to poisoning. Ant communities were sampled by pitfall trapping in three experimental subunits of 2-, 4-, 15- and 30-year-old citrus orchards, in the Grahamstown area of the Eastern Cape. In one subunit in each orchard, populations of P. megacephala and A. custodiens were suppressed by poison applications. In a second subunit, trees were banded with trunk barriers so that ants were prevented from foraging in the trees and a third subunit served as the untreated control. Bait pupae of bollworm, false codling moth and fruit fly were planted in bait trays in all of the subunits to investigate predation on these citrus pests in the relative absence of predacious ants and where they were excluded from the trees. Pheidole megacephala dominated exclusively in all of the plots. Community composition did not change dramatically with increasing age of the trees, but species diversity and species abundance did. Rank-abundance curves showed that community diversity was highest in the 2-year-old plots and lowest in the 30-year-old plots. The Simpson and Shannon-Wiener diversity indices and their evenness measures indicated that diversity and equitability were highest in the poisoned subunits and lowest in the banded subunits. Principle component analysis revealed that the poisoned subunits were similar and distinct in species composition, that there was significant monthly variation in species composition and that community stability increases with an increase in orchard age. The presence of P. megacephala was significantly negatively correlated (rs = -0.293; p < 0.001) with pest pupal survival. Pupal survival was significantly higher for bollworm (p < 0.001), FCM (p < 0.001) and fruit fly (p < 0.001) in the poisoned subunits, than in the banded and control subunits. There was a general trend for survivorship to increase with an increase in the age of the trees. A significant difference (p < 0.001) was found between the months in which the trials were carried out. Pupal survival was significantly lower (p < 0.001) for FCM than for bollworm and fruit fly. In citrus orchards, ant communities are organised by ecological processes and interactions and are influenced by methods of ant control. Ant bands are preferable to poisoning as a method of ant control, so that beneficial species are left on the ground to prey on pests that pupate in the soil. Maintaining high ant species diversity in citrus orchards would be beneficial as predation on the pupae was more effective where ant species diversity was higher.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The subjective well-being and experience of life roles of white employed married mothers: a multiple case study
- Authors: Evans, Amelia
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Married women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Working mothers -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Self-Actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11019 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/290 , Married women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Working mothers -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Self-Actualization (Psychology)
- Description: The number of women who choose to combine careers and traditional roles as mothers has been increasing steadily over the last number of years. As a result, the subjective wellbeing of these women has been the focus of many research projects over the last number of years. Subjective well-being has been defined in various ways by different authors. One definition describes subjective well-being as people's evaluations of their lives, which includes happiness, pleasant emotions, life satisfaction, and a relative absence of unpleasant moods and emotions. The current study, which took the form of a multiple case study, attempted to explore and describe White employed married mothers’ subjective experience of their well-being. The study also explored these women's experiences of combining the roles of employee and motherhood. The sample was obtained through the snowballing technique, and both qualitative (in-depth interviews) and quantitative techniques (two questionnaires - the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory) were utilized. The analysis of the data that was gathered was done by means of thematic and content analyses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Evans, Amelia
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Married women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Working mothers -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Self-Actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11019 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/290 , Married women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Working mothers -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Self-Actualization (Psychology)
- Description: The number of women who choose to combine careers and traditional roles as mothers has been increasing steadily over the last number of years. As a result, the subjective wellbeing of these women has been the focus of many research projects over the last number of years. Subjective well-being has been defined in various ways by different authors. One definition describes subjective well-being as people's evaluations of their lives, which includes happiness, pleasant emotions, life satisfaction, and a relative absence of unpleasant moods and emotions. The current study, which took the form of a multiple case study, attempted to explore and describe White employed married mothers’ subjective experience of their well-being. The study also explored these women's experiences of combining the roles of employee and motherhood. The sample was obtained through the snowballing technique, and both qualitative (in-depth interviews) and quantitative techniques (two questionnaires - the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory) were utilized. The analysis of the data that was gathered was done by means of thematic and content analyses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The suitability of Alagoasa extrema Jacoby (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), as a biological control agent for Lantana camara L. in South Africa
- Authors: Williams, Hester Elizabeth
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Lantana camara , Lantana camara -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005471 , Lantana camara , Lantana camara -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae
- Description: Lantana camara Linnaeus (Verbenaceae), commonly known as lantana, is a highly invasive weed in many parts of the world. In South Africa it is naturalized in several provinces where it invades pastures, riverbanks, mountain slopes and valleys and commercial and natural forests, forming dense, impenetrable thickets. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and provide only temporary relief as cleared areas are rapidly reinfested by seedlings and coppice growth. A biological control programme was initiated in South Africa in the 1960s, but despite the establishment of 11 agent species, it was considered to have had limited success. Several factors are thought to restrict the impact of the biocontrol agents. Firstly, L. camara occurs in a range of climatic regions, some of which are unsuitable for the establishment of agent species of tropical and subtropical origin. Secondly, L. camara is the result of hybridization between several Lantana species, forming a complex of hybridized and hybridizing varieties in the field, which match none of the Lantana species in the region of origin. This causes partial insect-host incompatibility, displayed as varietal preference. Thirdly, parasitism appears to have significantly reduced the effectiveness of several natural enemies. In spite of all these constraints, biological control has reduced invasion by L. camara by 26%. However, the weed is still very damaging and additional natural enemies are required to reduce infestations further. A flea-beetle species, Alagoasa extrema Jacoby (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), was collected from several sites in the humid subtropical and tropical regions of Mexico, and imported into quarantine in South Africa and studied as a potential biocontrol agent for L. camara. Favourable biological characteristics of this beetle included long-lived adults, several overlapping generations per year, and high adult and larval feeding rates. Observations from the insect’s native range and studies in South Africa suggest that A. extrema would probably be more suited to the subtropical, rather than the temperate areas in South Africa. Laboratory impact studies indicated that feeding damage by A. extrema larvae, over a period spanning the larval stage (16 to 20 days), reduced the above-ground biomass of L. camara plants by up to 29%. Higher larval populations resulted in a higher reduction of biomass. Varietal preference and suitability studies indicated that A. extrema exhibits a degree of varietal preference under laboratory conditions, with one of the white pink L. camara varieties proving the most suitable host. This variety is one of the most damaging varieties in South Africa and is particularly widespread in Mpumalanga Province. Although A. extrema proved to be damaging to L. camara, laboratory host range trials showed it to be an oligophagous species, capable of feeding and developing on several non-target species, especially two native Lippia species (Verbenaceae). The host suitability of these species was marginally lower than that of L. camara and the potential risk to these indigenous species was deemed to be too high to warrant release. It was therefore recommended that A. extrema not be considered for release in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Williams, Hester Elizabeth
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Lantana camara , Lantana camara -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5783 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005471 , Lantana camara , Lantana camara -- South Africa , Biological pest control agents -- South Africa , Chrysomelidae
- Description: Lantana camara Linnaeus (Verbenaceae), commonly known as lantana, is a highly invasive weed in many parts of the world. In South Africa it is naturalized in several provinces where it invades pastures, riverbanks, mountain slopes and valleys and commercial and natural forests, forming dense, impenetrable thickets. Chemical and mechanical control methods are expensive, labour intensive and provide only temporary relief as cleared areas are rapidly reinfested by seedlings and coppice growth. A biological control programme was initiated in South Africa in the 1960s, but despite the establishment of 11 agent species, it was considered to have had limited success. Several factors are thought to restrict the impact of the biocontrol agents. Firstly, L. camara occurs in a range of climatic regions, some of which are unsuitable for the establishment of agent species of tropical and subtropical origin. Secondly, L. camara is the result of hybridization between several Lantana species, forming a complex of hybridized and hybridizing varieties in the field, which match none of the Lantana species in the region of origin. This causes partial insect-host incompatibility, displayed as varietal preference. Thirdly, parasitism appears to have significantly reduced the effectiveness of several natural enemies. In spite of all these constraints, biological control has reduced invasion by L. camara by 26%. However, the weed is still very damaging and additional natural enemies are required to reduce infestations further. A flea-beetle species, Alagoasa extrema Jacoby (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), was collected from several sites in the humid subtropical and tropical regions of Mexico, and imported into quarantine in South Africa and studied as a potential biocontrol agent for L. camara. Favourable biological characteristics of this beetle included long-lived adults, several overlapping generations per year, and high adult and larval feeding rates. Observations from the insect’s native range and studies in South Africa suggest that A. extrema would probably be more suited to the subtropical, rather than the temperate areas in South Africa. Laboratory impact studies indicated that feeding damage by A. extrema larvae, over a period spanning the larval stage (16 to 20 days), reduced the above-ground biomass of L. camara plants by up to 29%. Higher larval populations resulted in a higher reduction of biomass. Varietal preference and suitability studies indicated that A. extrema exhibits a degree of varietal preference under laboratory conditions, with one of the white pink L. camara varieties proving the most suitable host. This variety is one of the most damaging varieties in South Africa and is particularly widespread in Mpumalanga Province. Although A. extrema proved to be damaging to L. camara, laboratory host range trials showed it to be an oligophagous species, capable of feeding and developing on several non-target species, especially two native Lippia species (Verbenaceae). The host suitability of these species was marginally lower than that of L. camara and the potential risk to these indigenous species was deemed to be too high to warrant release. It was therefore recommended that A. extrema not be considered for release in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The unbalanced media diet: context gender
- Authors: Garman, Anthea
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158762 , vital:40226 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146262
- Description: When you look at the Southern African "media diet" served up for Africans to consume, you discover some curious things about the differential reporting on men and women.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Garman, Anthea
- Date: 2003
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158762 , vital:40226 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC146262
- Description: When you look at the Southern African "media diet" served up for Africans to consume, you discover some curious things about the differential reporting on men and women.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The union movement and South Africa's transition, 1994 - 2003
- NALEDI
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/154168 , vital:39617
- Description: The new government faced enormous challenges when it came into office in 1994. For starters, the outgoing Apartheid leaders had thoroughly plundered the state coffers, awarding themselves and white civil servants massive pensions and 'golden handshakes'. The budget deficit was almost 9% of GDP The country/ had barely three weeks foreign exchange reserves, with a balance of payments crisis looming. The majority of inherited civil servants were generally hostile to the new government. The 'deep structures' of the State — by which I mean the ingrained habits and behaviour — were also generally hostile to the objectives of the democratic State. In addition, poverty levels were very high, and income inequality was among the worst in the world. And, of course, South Africa had the most institutionalised forms of racism in the world, which permeated through every law' and practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/154168 , vital:39617
- Description: The new government faced enormous challenges when it came into office in 1994. For starters, the outgoing Apartheid leaders had thoroughly plundered the state coffers, awarding themselves and white civil servants massive pensions and 'golden handshakes'. The budget deficit was almost 9% of GDP The country/ had barely three weeks foreign exchange reserves, with a balance of payments crisis looming. The majority of inherited civil servants were generally hostile to the new government. The 'deep structures' of the State — by which I mean the ingrained habits and behaviour — were also generally hostile to the objectives of the democratic State. In addition, poverty levels were very high, and income inequality was among the worst in the world. And, of course, South Africa had the most institutionalised forms of racism in the world, which permeated through every law' and practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The use of environmental education learning support materials in OBE the: case of the Creative Solutions to Waste project
- Authors: Mbanjwa, Sibonelo Glenton
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Competency-based education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Health education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Creative Solutions to Waste Project
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1811 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003697
- Description: The Creative Solutions to Waste Project (CSW) is a local environmental education project, involving five Grahamstown schools, the local municipality; community members and the Rhodes University Environmental Education Unit, where I worked at the time this study was undertaken. In this research I explore the use of environmental education learning support materials (LSM) in Outcomes Based Education (OBE). I have employed a participatory action research approach informed by critical theory in this case study of the Creative Solutions to Waste project (CSW). The research focused on the ‘Waste Education’ materials and their use, developed and piloted during the pilot phase. The Waste Education materials were also used in phase one. In phase two, the research focused on the use of ‘Health and Water’ learning support materials in 4 Grahamstown schools. Research participants included educators, support team members, municipal officials, Department of Education officials, Department of Health (Eastern Cape) officials, the Health Promoting Schools committee and NGO representatives. I employed a range of data collection strategies including questionnaires, observations, field notes, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews, workshops, reflective journal, videotapes, and photographs and documents analysis. The research process was collaboratively discussed and agreed upon by all the participants. This research indicated that the purpose influences the use of LSM. It also indicated the importance of mediation processes in the use of LSM. This study indicates that the designs of LSM and particular views of learning influence the way LSM are used. It does that by looking at how an active learning framework influenced the use of learning support materials and consequent learning processes. It also highlights the significance of paying attention to issues of language and literacy in the design of LSM, and how these factors influence the use of LSM. It also identified the tension between prescriptive and open-ended processes to professional development in supporting the use of LSM in contexts of curriculum change and transformation. This study also indicated the importance of reflexive processes to improve support process in the CSW project by demonstrating how the contributions and the roles of the support team were reflexively changed. I have reviewed the research processes in relation to the research design decisions made at the start of the project. This study lastly offers some recommendations for further research into the use of LSM, and how an understanding of LSM use may influence the development of LSM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Mbanjwa, Sibonelo Glenton
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Competency-based education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Health education -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Creative Solutions to Waste Project
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1811 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003697
- Description: The Creative Solutions to Waste Project (CSW) is a local environmental education project, involving five Grahamstown schools, the local municipality; community members and the Rhodes University Environmental Education Unit, where I worked at the time this study was undertaken. In this research I explore the use of environmental education learning support materials (LSM) in Outcomes Based Education (OBE). I have employed a participatory action research approach informed by critical theory in this case study of the Creative Solutions to Waste project (CSW). The research focused on the ‘Waste Education’ materials and their use, developed and piloted during the pilot phase. The Waste Education materials were also used in phase one. In phase two, the research focused on the use of ‘Health and Water’ learning support materials in 4 Grahamstown schools. Research participants included educators, support team members, municipal officials, Department of Education officials, Department of Health (Eastern Cape) officials, the Health Promoting Schools committee and NGO representatives. I employed a range of data collection strategies including questionnaires, observations, field notes, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews, workshops, reflective journal, videotapes, and photographs and documents analysis. The research process was collaboratively discussed and agreed upon by all the participants. This research indicated that the purpose influences the use of LSM. It also indicated the importance of mediation processes in the use of LSM. This study indicates that the designs of LSM and particular views of learning influence the way LSM are used. It does that by looking at how an active learning framework influenced the use of learning support materials and consequent learning processes. It also highlights the significance of paying attention to issues of language and literacy in the design of LSM, and how these factors influence the use of LSM. It also identified the tension between prescriptive and open-ended processes to professional development in supporting the use of LSM in contexts of curriculum change and transformation. This study also indicated the importance of reflexive processes to improve support process in the CSW project by demonstrating how the contributions and the roles of the support team were reflexively changed. I have reviewed the research processes in relation to the research design decisions made at the start of the project. This study lastly offers some recommendations for further research into the use of LSM, and how an understanding of LSM use may influence the development of LSM.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The use of social work services in criminal matters : an exploratory study of East London attorneys
- Authors: McCoy, Lee
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Social workers -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- South Africa -- East London Social service -- South Africa -- East London Lawyers -- South Africa -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007587
- Description: This study explored the use of social work services by East London attorneys in criminal law matters. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the data was saturated after 10 such interviews. In exploring the use of social work services, the study also considered the challenges and constraints experienced by lawyers in their use of expert witnesses from the Humanities generally; discussed the expectations lawyers have of expert witnesses and the presentencing reports they write and described the perceived impact of social work services on the presentation of cases in criminal matters. The focus on social work was aimed at exploring ways of increasing the use of social work as the profession of choice when attorneys call on expert witnesses. The literature revIew focussed on the individualisation of sentences, the general principles of punishment, finding an appropriate sentence, the so-called Triad of Zinn, the role of the social worker in criminal justice, the role of the legal social worker, the report, courtroom skills and the relationship between social work values and the law. Using purposive sampling of all legal firms in East London doing criminal work, ten attorneys were asked to participate in the study. A semi-structured interview based on a schedule of questions was used. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. The transcripts were analysed thematically. After ten interviews no new data was being generated and the topic was considered saturated. Further research is needed to build on the themes that emerged. The study argues that there is a place for social work services in criminal matters. It also, however, revealed that some of the respondents had had negative experiences when dealing with social workers. There were also positive responses and a commitment to establishing a more co-operative relationship between law and social work. Based on the research findings, the most important recommendation was to develop communication between the two professions and to provide inter-disciplinary training so as to promote an understanding of the roles and expectations of all involved in the criminal law process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: McCoy, Lee
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Social workers -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- South Africa -- East London Social service -- South Africa -- East London Lawyers -- South Africa -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007587
- Description: This study explored the use of social work services by East London attorneys in criminal law matters. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and the data was saturated after 10 such interviews. In exploring the use of social work services, the study also considered the challenges and constraints experienced by lawyers in their use of expert witnesses from the Humanities generally; discussed the expectations lawyers have of expert witnesses and the presentencing reports they write and described the perceived impact of social work services on the presentation of cases in criminal matters. The focus on social work was aimed at exploring ways of increasing the use of social work as the profession of choice when attorneys call on expert witnesses. The literature revIew focussed on the individualisation of sentences, the general principles of punishment, finding an appropriate sentence, the so-called Triad of Zinn, the role of the social worker in criminal justice, the role of the legal social worker, the report, courtroom skills and the relationship between social work values and the law. Using purposive sampling of all legal firms in East London doing criminal work, ten attorneys were asked to participate in the study. A semi-structured interview based on a schedule of questions was used. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. The transcripts were analysed thematically. After ten interviews no new data was being generated and the topic was considered saturated. Further research is needed to build on the themes that emerged. The study argues that there is a place for social work services in criminal matters. It also, however, revealed that some of the respondents had had negative experiences when dealing with social workers. There were also positive responses and a commitment to establishing a more co-operative relationship between law and social work. Based on the research findings, the most important recommendation was to develop communication between the two professions and to provide inter-disciplinary training so as to promote an understanding of the roles and expectations of all involved in the criminal law process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003