Approach to National Health Workforce Planning for health service delivery in South Africa
- Authors: Mahlathi, Malixole Percival
- Date: 2009-12
- Subjects: Health planning , Rural health services , Labor turnover
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25216 , vital:64058
- Description: Although South Africa educates and trains many health professionals of various categories, it continues to experience relative and critical shortages of these professionals especially at its rural health facilities. It boasts more than 15 Faculties of Health Sciences which train a variety of health professionals. In addition to training for its own purposes, it also offers training for several countries in the Southern African Development Community. The burden of disease is considered to be high and increasing, complicated by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. In the light of these challenges it is necessary that South Africa engages in careful health workforce planning as a long term approach to solve shortage of health professionals and improving the delivery of health services. This study examines the health workforce planning approaches by the various Provincial Departments of Health and the student planning approaches by the Faculties of Health Sciences of the Higher Education Institutions that train health professionals. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2009
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009-12
- Authors: Mahlathi, Malixole Percival
- Date: 2009-12
- Subjects: Health planning , Rural health services , Labor turnover
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25216 , vital:64058
- Description: Although South Africa educates and trains many health professionals of various categories, it continues to experience relative and critical shortages of these professionals especially at its rural health facilities. It boasts more than 15 Faculties of Health Sciences which train a variety of health professionals. In addition to training for its own purposes, it also offers training for several countries in the Southern African Development Community. The burden of disease is considered to be high and increasing, complicated by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. In the light of these challenges it is necessary that South Africa engages in careful health workforce planning as a long term approach to solve shortage of health professionals and improving the delivery of health services. This study examines the health workforce planning approaches by the various Provincial Departments of Health and the student planning approaches by the Faculties of Health Sciences of the Higher Education Institutions that train health professionals. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2009
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009-12
A case study of Kurt Donald Cobain
- Authors: Pieterse, Candice Belinda
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Cobain, Kurt, 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa , Rock musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1157 , Cobain, Kurt, 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa , Rock musicians
- Description: Case study research allows for an in depth study of an individual and yields relevant insight and results while examining an individual in their entirety. This approach allows the researcher to capture the uniqueness of a subject and thus provide an interesting understanding of that individual. The study is a case study of Kurt Donald Cobain. Cobain (1967-1994) was an American musician who served as songwriter, lead singer and guitarist for the band, Nirvana. He struggled with drug addiction during the last years of his life, and died on 8 April 1994 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head (Sandford, 1995). The study is a single case research design, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data. It aimed to explore and describe Kurt Cobain’s personality according to the Five Factor Model of Personality. He was chosen as the research subject by means of purposive sampling on the basis of the researcher’s interest and on his uniqueness and inspirational influences on the general public. Collected data was analyzed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’s (1994) general approach which consists of data reduction, data display and conclusion drawing and verification. Descriptive tables from the NEO-PI-R personality measure were further interpreted to provide quantitative information regarding the personality traits of the subject. The findings of this study suggest that Kurt Cobain portrayed a complex personality profile as an individual, and it appears that he experienced much distress and emotional instability within his life. However, he was able to provide the youth a means of expressing themselves through his music.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Pieterse, Candice Belinda
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Cobain, Kurt, 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa , Rock musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1157 , Cobain, Kurt, 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa , Rock musicians
- Description: Case study research allows for an in depth study of an individual and yields relevant insight and results while examining an individual in their entirety. This approach allows the researcher to capture the uniqueness of a subject and thus provide an interesting understanding of that individual. The study is a case study of Kurt Donald Cobain. Cobain (1967-1994) was an American musician who served as songwriter, lead singer and guitarist for the band, Nirvana. He struggled with drug addiction during the last years of his life, and died on 8 April 1994 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head (Sandford, 1995). The study is a single case research design, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data. It aimed to explore and describe Kurt Cobain’s personality according to the Five Factor Model of Personality. He was chosen as the research subject by means of purposive sampling on the basis of the researcher’s interest and on his uniqueness and inspirational influences on the general public. Collected data was analyzed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’s (1994) general approach which consists of data reduction, data display and conclusion drawing and verification. Descriptive tables from the NEO-PI-R personality measure were further interpreted to provide quantitative information regarding the personality traits of the subject. The findings of this study suggest that Kurt Cobain portrayed a complex personality profile as an individual, and it appears that he experienced much distress and emotional instability within his life. However, he was able to provide the youth a means of expressing themselves through his music.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A longitudinal study of the occupational aspirations and perceptions of twelve to fourteen year-old South African children
- Authors: Hunter, Carrie
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Vocational interests -- Research -- South Africa , Children -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Personality and occupation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9906 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/968 , Vocational interests -- Research -- South Africa , Children -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Personality and occupation
- Description: While career development has been acknowledged as a lifelong process, little research attention has been given to the developmental stage of childhood. In addition, there has been a lack of longitudinal research into career development despite consistent calls for research of this nature. The lack of research and theory pertaining to childhood career development prompted the initiation of the current longitudinal project of which the present study forms a part. The longitudinal project was designed to provide information about the occupational aspirations and perceptions of a cohort of South African children from six years of age onwards, with the present studying examining the occupational aspiration development of 12 to 14 year old South African children. South African career research to date has focused primarily on adolescent and adult career development. The present longitudinal study aimed to explore and describe possible changes over a three year period in the interest typology, occupational status level and occupational gender stereotypes of the 44 participants. In addition, the study aimed to explore and describe the sample’s reflections on their own occupational aspiration development. The results of this study will provide much needed baseline information on the development of South African children’s occupational aspirations and will provide useful recommendations for the development of career education programmes. The present study was contextualised within both child and career development theories. This study was quantitative in nature as it made use of semi-structured interviews and biographical questionnaires to record verbal data which was transposed into nominal data for analysis. The semi-structured interview consisted of four broad areas that included the participants’ occupational aspirations, how many occupations they knew about, how much they knew about the identified occupations xiii and the extent to which they held gender stereotypes regarding fourteen different occupations. The data captured was coded according to Holland’s (1985) classification system of interest types. The occupational aspirations identified by participants were also coded according to their status levels. The coded data was then analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency counts and percentages. In addition, content analysis was performed on the participants’ reflections on their own career development in order to elicit themes. Results from the study supported child and career development theories, emphasising childhood as a critical phase of career development. The study found that the majority of children aspired to Social type occupations across all three years of the study and most children consistently aspired to high status occupations. Furthermore, occupational gender stereotyping decreased over time. Lastly, it was found that most children were able to reflect on their career development with the majority attributing changes in their occupational aspirations to changes in their interests. The present study has provided valuable insight into the occupational aspiration development of a group of South African children, which can be used as a foundation on which to base further research and on which to develop career education programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Hunter, Carrie
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Vocational interests -- Research -- South Africa , Children -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Personality and occupation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9906 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/968 , Vocational interests -- Research -- South Africa , Children -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Personality and occupation
- Description: While career development has been acknowledged as a lifelong process, little research attention has been given to the developmental stage of childhood. In addition, there has been a lack of longitudinal research into career development despite consistent calls for research of this nature. The lack of research and theory pertaining to childhood career development prompted the initiation of the current longitudinal project of which the present study forms a part. The longitudinal project was designed to provide information about the occupational aspirations and perceptions of a cohort of South African children from six years of age onwards, with the present studying examining the occupational aspiration development of 12 to 14 year old South African children. South African career research to date has focused primarily on adolescent and adult career development. The present longitudinal study aimed to explore and describe possible changes over a three year period in the interest typology, occupational status level and occupational gender stereotypes of the 44 participants. In addition, the study aimed to explore and describe the sample’s reflections on their own occupational aspiration development. The results of this study will provide much needed baseline information on the development of South African children’s occupational aspirations and will provide useful recommendations for the development of career education programmes. The present study was contextualised within both child and career development theories. This study was quantitative in nature as it made use of semi-structured interviews and biographical questionnaires to record verbal data which was transposed into nominal data for analysis. The semi-structured interview consisted of four broad areas that included the participants’ occupational aspirations, how many occupations they knew about, how much they knew about the identified occupations xiii and the extent to which they held gender stereotypes regarding fourteen different occupations. The data captured was coded according to Holland’s (1985) classification system of interest types. The occupational aspirations identified by participants were also coded according to their status levels. The coded data was then analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency counts and percentages. In addition, content analysis was performed on the participants’ reflections on their own career development in order to elicit themes. Results from the study supported child and career development theories, emphasising childhood as a critical phase of career development. The study found that the majority of children aspired to Social type occupations across all three years of the study and most children consistently aspired to high status occupations. Furthermore, occupational gender stereotyping decreased over time. Lastly, it was found that most children were able to reflect on their career development with the majority attributing changes in their occupational aspirations to changes in their interests. The present study has provided valuable insight into the occupational aspiration development of a group of South African children, which can be used as a foundation on which to base further research and on which to develop career education programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A psychobiographical study of Helen Keller
- Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Authors: Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1101 , Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Description: This psychobiographical study of Helen Keller’s life is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling. The choice was based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this profoundly handicapped woman had within her society. Helen Keller also meets the psychobiographical requirements. These include that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study uses a qualitative, single case, interpretive research design. The design is employed to study Helen Keller’s entire life span within a formal psychological theory. The theory used in this study is Daniel Levinson’s (1996) Life Structure theory of adult development. Data for this study were collected from a variety of primary and secondary sources which provided alternative perspectives on her life. In addition, the data have been corroborated by historical texts, and newspaper and journal articles. Levinson’s (1996) theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development, each with particular developmental tasks. Cross-era transitions separate the eras. By describing and exploring the data according to this theory, Helen Keller as a profoundly handicapped person is shown to display universal patterns of development as suggested by Levinson. At the same time, the Life Structure she developed, her life components, and Satisfactoriness illuminated her uniqueness. Through the application of the theory to Helen Keller’s life, this psychobiographical study facilitated an examination of the theory. This led to suggestions for potential development of the theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1101 , Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Description: This psychobiographical study of Helen Keller’s life is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling. The choice was based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this profoundly handicapped woman had within her society. Helen Keller also meets the psychobiographical requirements. These include that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study uses a qualitative, single case, interpretive research design. The design is employed to study Helen Keller’s entire life span within a formal psychological theory. The theory used in this study is Daniel Levinson’s (1996) Life Structure theory of adult development. Data for this study were collected from a variety of primary and secondary sources which provided alternative perspectives on her life. In addition, the data have been corroborated by historical texts, and newspaper and journal articles. Levinson’s (1996) theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development, each with particular developmental tasks. Cross-era transitions separate the eras. By describing and exploring the data according to this theory, Helen Keller as a profoundly handicapped person is shown to display universal patterns of development as suggested by Levinson. At the same time, the Life Structure she developed, her life components, and Satisfactoriness illuminated her uniqueness. Through the application of the theory to Helen Keller’s life, this psychobiographical study facilitated an examination of the theory. This led to suggestions for potential development of the theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A psychobiographical study of Isie Smuts
- Authors: Smuts, Carisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/894 , Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Description: Psychobiographical research, with the use of psychological theory, allows us to uncover and unravel the life of an individual. This important area of research for the application of a psychological theory has, however, been under-utilized, especially in South Africa. The importance of psychobiographical case study research for the development and testing of theories of human development throughout the lifespan, has been supported by a number of academics in the field. The research subject was Sibella Margaretha (Isie) Krige. Isie (1870-1954) was married to General Jan Christiaan Smuts (1870-1950). He was a prominent South African and Commonwealth statesman, military leader, botanist and philosopher. Although much has been written on General Smuts, a psychobiography on the life of Isie had not been written yet. Isie was chosen as the research subject through purposive sampling. The study employed a qualitative psychobiographical research method, which aimed to explore and describe Isie’s psychological development in terms of Daniel Levinson’s (1996) theory of the Human Life Cycle. Collected data were analysed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’ (2000) approach. It integrated three sub-processes, namely data reduction, data display, as well as the drawing of conclusions and verification. The findings of the study indicate that Isie’s life was consistent with the pattern which Levinson (1996) identified. Isie was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. The findings of the study also indicated that the development of Isie’s life structure was strongly influenced by a number of sociohistorical and global events. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations regarding the psychobiographical research design and methodology in future have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Smuts, Carisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/894 , Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Description: Psychobiographical research, with the use of psychological theory, allows us to uncover and unravel the life of an individual. This important area of research for the application of a psychological theory has, however, been under-utilized, especially in South Africa. The importance of psychobiographical case study research for the development and testing of theories of human development throughout the lifespan, has been supported by a number of academics in the field. The research subject was Sibella Margaretha (Isie) Krige. Isie (1870-1954) was married to General Jan Christiaan Smuts (1870-1950). He was a prominent South African and Commonwealth statesman, military leader, botanist and philosopher. Although much has been written on General Smuts, a psychobiography on the life of Isie had not been written yet. Isie was chosen as the research subject through purposive sampling. The study employed a qualitative psychobiographical research method, which aimed to explore and describe Isie’s psychological development in terms of Daniel Levinson’s (1996) theory of the Human Life Cycle. Collected data were analysed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’ (2000) approach. It integrated three sub-processes, namely data reduction, data display, as well as the drawing of conclusions and verification. The findings of the study indicate that Isie’s life was consistent with the pattern which Levinson (1996) identified. Isie was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. The findings of the study also indicated that the development of Isie’s life structure was strongly influenced by a number of sociohistorical and global events. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations regarding the psychobiographical research design and methodology in future have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A system review of higher education admissions testing practices in Israel: implications for South Africa
- Authors: Cronje, Johan Herman
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Israel -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Entrance requirements , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Validity , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Israel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/937 , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Israel -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Entrance requirements , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Validity , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Israel
- Description: Internationally, the practice of admissions entry testing in Higher Education (HE) has gained momentum over the past few decades, sparking ongoing research on its effectiveness. On a national level, three factors have signalled a timeous evaluation of admissions practices at HE institutions. Firstly, changes in the school curriculum and the new format of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) have impacted on the admissions criteria of HE institutions. Secondly, with the merging of HE institutions an alignment in admissions practices between the institutions involved were necessitated. Thirdly, South Africa has embarked on the development of National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). The primary aim of this research study was to develop a set of recommendations to guide admissions testing practices in the South African HE context. These recommendations had to place special emphasis on the multicultural and multilingual context of this country. To achieve this aim a systematic review was conducted on HE admissions testing in Israel, as it was identified as a multicultural and multilingual country that had successfully implemented national HE admissions testing. More specifically, a retrospective systematic review was performed on research regarding the national HE admissions test, the Psychometric Entrance Test (PET), used in Israel. The systematic review also contained a narrative overview on the educational landscape in Israel and the specifications of the PET, from which themes were also extracted. Eight broad themes emerged through the systematic review and narrative overview as being of critical importance to an effective national HE admissions test. These were the components of the test, the implementation of the testing programme, the method in which the test results are used to make HE admission decisions, the reliability xi of the test, the validity of the test, bias inherent in the test, other psychometric aspects related to the admissions test, and the effect of coaching or specialized preparation on test results. These themes, together with their sub-components, were used to develop eight recommendations that can guide the development and implementation of the National Benchmark Test (NBTs) in South Africa. Both the themes that emerged during the systematic review and narrative overview as well as the recommendations that were made to guide the development and implementation of a national admission test, represent an important contribution to the field of admission testing and decision-making in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Cronje, Johan Herman
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Israel -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Entrance requirements , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Validity , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Israel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/937 , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Israel -- Admissions , Universities and colleges -- Entrance requirements , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Validity , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Israel
- Description: Internationally, the practice of admissions entry testing in Higher Education (HE) has gained momentum over the past few decades, sparking ongoing research on its effectiveness. On a national level, three factors have signalled a timeous evaluation of admissions practices at HE institutions. Firstly, changes in the school curriculum and the new format of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) have impacted on the admissions criteria of HE institutions. Secondly, with the merging of HE institutions an alignment in admissions practices between the institutions involved were necessitated. Thirdly, South Africa has embarked on the development of National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). The primary aim of this research study was to develop a set of recommendations to guide admissions testing practices in the South African HE context. These recommendations had to place special emphasis on the multicultural and multilingual context of this country. To achieve this aim a systematic review was conducted on HE admissions testing in Israel, as it was identified as a multicultural and multilingual country that had successfully implemented national HE admissions testing. More specifically, a retrospective systematic review was performed on research regarding the national HE admissions test, the Psychometric Entrance Test (PET), used in Israel. The systematic review also contained a narrative overview on the educational landscape in Israel and the specifications of the PET, from which themes were also extracted. Eight broad themes emerged through the systematic review and narrative overview as being of critical importance to an effective national HE admissions test. These were the components of the test, the implementation of the testing programme, the method in which the test results are used to make HE admission decisions, the reliability xi of the test, the validity of the test, bias inherent in the test, other psychometric aspects related to the admissions test, and the effect of coaching or specialized preparation on test results. These themes, together with their sub-components, were used to develop eight recommendations that can guide the development and implementation of the National Benchmark Test (NBTs) in South Africa. Both the themes that emerged during the systematic review and narrative overview as well as the recommendations that were made to guide the development and implementation of a national admission test, represent an important contribution to the field of admission testing and decision-making in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Adherence and non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment in HIV people in Port Elizabeth
- Masokoane, Kgomotso Quentinne
- Authors: Masokoane, Kgomotso Quentinne
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9886 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1185 , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The introduction of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in 1996 transformed the treatment of HIV and AIDS, improving the quality and greatly prolonging the lives of many infected people. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that is believed to cause AIDS. AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the collection of illnesses or symptoms that ultimately results in death. Antiretroviral (ARVs) drugs or Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is the treatment that has been applied to combat the HI virus in a bid to slow down the progression of AIDS and ultimately prolong the life of the infected individual. The study aimed to explore and describe the factors contributing to adherence and non-adherence to ARVs in individuals on treatment. A sample of 81 individuals who have been on ARV and HAART treatment for six months or more was used. The methodology used was exploratory-descriptive and the data obtained was quantitative in nature. A biographical questionnaire and questionnaire with questions aimed at ascertaining the possible factors that contribute to individuals either adhering to or defaulting on their treatment, such as side effects and cost of treatment, was administered. The data obtained was analysed by means of descriptive statistics and frequency counts. The results of the study showed that the sample had a fairly high level of adherence. The factors that could undermine adherence were identified as lack of support, as familial and health provider support acts as a motivator to adhere; substance abuse as it can lead to forgetting to take treatment; unemployment and poverty, as these can lead to an inability to return for follow up clinic visits or failure to have food to take with the pills; and the type of treatment regimen whereby the more complex the treatment is the more likely it is that adherence will be difficult to maintain. Suggestions were made as to future research involving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Finally the limitations as well as the value of the research were outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Masokoane, Kgomotso Quentinne
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9886 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1185 , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , AIDS (Disease) -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The introduction of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in 1996 transformed the treatment of HIV and AIDS, improving the quality and greatly prolonging the lives of many infected people. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that is believed to cause AIDS. AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the collection of illnesses or symptoms that ultimately results in death. Antiretroviral (ARVs) drugs or Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is the treatment that has been applied to combat the HI virus in a bid to slow down the progression of AIDS and ultimately prolong the life of the infected individual. The study aimed to explore and describe the factors contributing to adherence and non-adherence to ARVs in individuals on treatment. A sample of 81 individuals who have been on ARV and HAART treatment for six months or more was used. The methodology used was exploratory-descriptive and the data obtained was quantitative in nature. A biographical questionnaire and questionnaire with questions aimed at ascertaining the possible factors that contribute to individuals either adhering to or defaulting on their treatment, such as side effects and cost of treatment, was administered. The data obtained was analysed by means of descriptive statistics and frequency counts. The results of the study showed that the sample had a fairly high level of adherence. The factors that could undermine adherence were identified as lack of support, as familial and health provider support acts as a motivator to adhere; substance abuse as it can lead to forgetting to take treatment; unemployment and poverty, as these can lead to an inability to return for follow up clinic visits or failure to have food to take with the pills; and the type of treatment regimen whereby the more complex the treatment is the more likely it is that adherence will be difficult to maintain. Suggestions were made as to future research involving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Finally the limitations as well as the value of the research were outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
An assessment of the computer literacy status of nurse managers in a private hospital group in the Nelson Mandela metropolitan area
- Authors: Booysen, Mary Kathleen
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nursing informatics , Nursing -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Hospital care -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10035 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/924 , Nursing informatics , Nursing -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Hospital care -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area
- Description: There has been an increase in the use of information technology in the hospital environment over the past decade and the use of computers by Nursing Managers is rapidly increasing. The latter poses a challenge to Nurse Managers, as their computer literacy status is unknown. This is evident from the fact that prior to 1996 there was only four computers at one of the private hospitals used in this study. Computer skills were never a requirement when applying for the position of Nurse Manager; and there is still currently no formal computer training provided for Nurse Managers or Acting Nurse Managers. Resources are however available in the hospitals to assist the managers with various computer problems but it is not known if these resources equip managers with the appropriate tools to become efficient in their role. The lack of formal training and lack of assessment of resources to determine whether the computer needs of Nurse Managers are met results in a lot of time being wasted and many frustrations experienced among Nurse Managers. The researcher was therefore motivated by the latter problem to explore and describe the computer literacy status of Nurse Managers in order to make recommendations to management regarding the research findings. The researcher selected a quantitative, explorative, contextual and descriptive survey design. The research population was made up of all Nurse Managers and Acting Nurse Managers at the time of the study. A 100 percent sample was utilised and comprised thirty-four respondents who made up the entire group of Nurse Managers and Acting Nurse Managers at the time of the study. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used in Phase One of the research and in Phase Two a data observation sheet was used to test the respondents and to collect the necessary data. This data was manually processed and analysed by the iii researcher. All ethical considerations were honoured throughout the research process. The main findings of the research study reflected that the respondents had a below average ability to use various software packages such as Microsoft Word, EXCEL and Power Point. Findings further revealed that the respondent’s literacy levels were average with regard to the use of peripheral components of the computer such as the use of the mouse and keyboard. The respondents rated their competency level as average with regard to using a computer. Due to the limitations and small sample size used in the study the researcher recommends that further research using a larger sample by expanding the research into the other private hospitals in the group through out South Africa should take place in order to produce more constructive results than this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Booysen, Mary Kathleen
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Nursing informatics , Nursing -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Hospital care -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10035 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/924 , Nursing informatics , Nursing -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Hospital care -- Data processing -- South Africa - Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area
- Description: There has been an increase in the use of information technology in the hospital environment over the past decade and the use of computers by Nursing Managers is rapidly increasing. The latter poses a challenge to Nurse Managers, as their computer literacy status is unknown. This is evident from the fact that prior to 1996 there was only four computers at one of the private hospitals used in this study. Computer skills were never a requirement when applying for the position of Nurse Manager; and there is still currently no formal computer training provided for Nurse Managers or Acting Nurse Managers. Resources are however available in the hospitals to assist the managers with various computer problems but it is not known if these resources equip managers with the appropriate tools to become efficient in their role. The lack of formal training and lack of assessment of resources to determine whether the computer needs of Nurse Managers are met results in a lot of time being wasted and many frustrations experienced among Nurse Managers. The researcher was therefore motivated by the latter problem to explore and describe the computer literacy status of Nurse Managers in order to make recommendations to management regarding the research findings. The researcher selected a quantitative, explorative, contextual and descriptive survey design. The research population was made up of all Nurse Managers and Acting Nurse Managers at the time of the study. A 100 percent sample was utilised and comprised thirty-four respondents who made up the entire group of Nurse Managers and Acting Nurse Managers at the time of the study. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used in Phase One of the research and in Phase Two a data observation sheet was used to test the respondents and to collect the necessary data. This data was manually processed and analysed by the iii researcher. All ethical considerations were honoured throughout the research process. The main findings of the research study reflected that the respondents had a below average ability to use various software packages such as Microsoft Word, EXCEL and Power Point. Findings further revealed that the respondent’s literacy levels were average with regard to the use of peripheral components of the computer such as the use of the mouse and keyboard. The respondents rated their competency level as average with regard to using a computer. Due to the limitations and small sample size used in the study the researcher recommends that further research using a larger sample by expanding the research into the other private hospitals in the group through out South Africa should take place in order to produce more constructive results than this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
An investigation into the antimicrobial and anticancer activities of Geranium incanum, Artemisia afra and Artemisia absinthium
- Authors: Freidberg, Ryno
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Cancer -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10122 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1045 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Cancer -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents
- Description: It has been estimated that between 3000 and 4000 plant species are used for their medicinal properties throughout South Africa, with approximately 27 million South Africans making use of traditional medicines. Of this 27 million, 3 million South Africans rely on traditional medicine as their primary source of health care. Of the 250 000 to 500 000 known plant species, very few have been investigated for their pharmacological qualities, and compounds of significant medicinal value may still remain undiscovered in many plant species. The aims of this study included investigating the antimicrobial properties of Geranium incanum and Artemisia afra, both plants traditionally used for their medicinal properties, and comparing the antimicrobial activity of the latter to that of Artemisia absinthium, as well as investigating the anticancer properties of G. incanum and A. afra, and comparing the anticancer activity of the latter to that of A. absinthium. Infusions, aqueous-, methanol- and acetone extracts of the three plants were prepared and used for anticancer and antimicrobial screening. Plant specimens used to prepare extracts for antimicrobial activity were collected and extracted over three seasons, while extracts used for anticancer screening were prepared from plants collected during the summer only. Considerable variation existed in the percentage crude extract yields obtained when different extractants were used, while the season in which the plants were harvested and extracted also appeared to play a significant role in the amount of extract obtained. The plant extracts were screened for antimicrobial activity against various strains of Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, using an agar dilution method. G. incanum and A. afra possessed activity for C. albicans, while all three plants showed activity for S. aureus and B. cereus. Activity was largely dependent on the extraction method used. iii The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to screen for anticancer activity of the respective extracts, at varying concentrations, against MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cells, HT-29 (human colonic adenocarcinoma) cells and HeLa (human cervical cancer) cells. All of the extracts showed cytotoxic activity in all three cell lines to varying extents, depending on the extract used and cell line screened. The acetone extract of A. afra proved to be the most effective inhibitor with the lowest IC50 (2.65 ± 1.05 μg/ml) having been shown in MCF-7 cells. A. afra and A. absinthium showed similar inhibitory patterns, with the methanol- and acetone extracts having been the most potent inhibitors of each of the respective cell lines in general. Fluorescence microscopy employing 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI) and propidium iodide (PI) staining indicated that the acetone extract of A. afra induces apoptosis in MCF-7 cells as apposed to necrosis, and the results were comparable to those obtained for cells exposed to cisplatin. Screening of the A. afra acetone extract for toxicity in normal human cells using the CellTiter-Blue® assay indicated the extract to be toxic to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC’s) at concentrations comparable to that for MCF-7 cells, while cell cycle analysis of MCF-7 cells exposed to the A. afra acetone extract indicated the extract’s ability to induce apoptosis comparable to that of cisplatin, with the extract exerting its activity at a point during or just prior to the S phase of the cell cycle.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Freidberg, Ryno
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Cancer -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10122 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1045 , Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Cancer -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents
- Description: It has been estimated that between 3000 and 4000 plant species are used for their medicinal properties throughout South Africa, with approximately 27 million South Africans making use of traditional medicines. Of this 27 million, 3 million South Africans rely on traditional medicine as their primary source of health care. Of the 250 000 to 500 000 known plant species, very few have been investigated for their pharmacological qualities, and compounds of significant medicinal value may still remain undiscovered in many plant species. The aims of this study included investigating the antimicrobial properties of Geranium incanum and Artemisia afra, both plants traditionally used for their medicinal properties, and comparing the antimicrobial activity of the latter to that of Artemisia absinthium, as well as investigating the anticancer properties of G. incanum and A. afra, and comparing the anticancer activity of the latter to that of A. absinthium. Infusions, aqueous-, methanol- and acetone extracts of the three plants were prepared and used for anticancer and antimicrobial screening. Plant specimens used to prepare extracts for antimicrobial activity were collected and extracted over three seasons, while extracts used for anticancer screening were prepared from plants collected during the summer only. Considerable variation existed in the percentage crude extract yields obtained when different extractants were used, while the season in which the plants were harvested and extracted also appeared to play a significant role in the amount of extract obtained. The plant extracts were screened for antimicrobial activity against various strains of Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, using an agar dilution method. G. incanum and A. afra possessed activity for C. albicans, while all three plants showed activity for S. aureus and B. cereus. Activity was largely dependent on the extraction method used. iii The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to screen for anticancer activity of the respective extracts, at varying concentrations, against MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cells, HT-29 (human colonic adenocarcinoma) cells and HeLa (human cervical cancer) cells. All of the extracts showed cytotoxic activity in all three cell lines to varying extents, depending on the extract used and cell line screened. The acetone extract of A. afra proved to be the most effective inhibitor with the lowest IC50 (2.65 ± 1.05 μg/ml) having been shown in MCF-7 cells. A. afra and A. absinthium showed similar inhibitory patterns, with the methanol- and acetone extracts having been the most potent inhibitors of each of the respective cell lines in general. Fluorescence microscopy employing 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI) and propidium iodide (PI) staining indicated that the acetone extract of A. afra induces apoptosis in MCF-7 cells as apposed to necrosis, and the results were comparable to those obtained for cells exposed to cisplatin. Screening of the A. afra acetone extract for toxicity in normal human cells using the CellTiter-Blue® assay indicated the extract to be toxic to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC’s) at concentrations comparable to that for MCF-7 cells, while cell cycle analysis of MCF-7 cells exposed to the A. afra acetone extract indicated the extract’s ability to induce apoptosis comparable to that of cisplatin, with the extract exerting its activity at a point during or just prior to the S phase of the cell cycle.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Awareness, attitudes and referral practices of health care providers to psychological services in Botswana
- Authors: July, Emma
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1166 , Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Description: The provision of psychological services is vital considering the complex nature of psychosocial issues facing people today. Nevertheless, the provision and utilization of psychological services has not been given due recognition in most African countries, including Botswana. Botswana is one of the countries faced by the challenges of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other mental health problems, as well as poverty and unemployment. To date statistics on the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Botswana, published annually by the National AIDS Coordinating Agency (NACA) reflect an increased rate of mental illness and psychosocial problems. Considering the complex nature of issues that impact negatively on people in Botswana, there is a need for awareness and the provision of psychological services in the primary health care system. There is little research on the place of psychology and psychological services in Botswana. The availability of such information is crucial for the planning of effective community-based psychological services. The present study employed a quantitative research method to explore and describe awareness and attitudes towards psychological services and referral practices in relation to psychological problems, of health care providers in Botswana. The participants in the study were chosen, based on a non-probability, purposive sampling method. The sample consisted of ninety-six persons and constituted medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and clinical social workers from governmental and non-governmental institutions from Gaborone and Francistown in Botswana. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviations. Frequency counts and percentages of the participants’ responses were computed. The results of the study revealed an awareness of available psychological services, positive attitudes towards psychology and psychological services and a reasonable percentage of referrals to psychological services. The results also revealed that available psychological services were limited and not easily accessible to patients. There was also an indication of a shortage of trained professionals to offer psychological services in health care centres, which resulted in psychological problems being referred to social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: July, Emma
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1166 , Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Description: The provision of psychological services is vital considering the complex nature of psychosocial issues facing people today. Nevertheless, the provision and utilization of psychological services has not been given due recognition in most African countries, including Botswana. Botswana is one of the countries faced by the challenges of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other mental health problems, as well as poverty and unemployment. To date statistics on the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Botswana, published annually by the National AIDS Coordinating Agency (NACA) reflect an increased rate of mental illness and psychosocial problems. Considering the complex nature of issues that impact negatively on people in Botswana, there is a need for awareness and the provision of psychological services in the primary health care system. There is little research on the place of psychology and psychological services in Botswana. The availability of such information is crucial for the planning of effective community-based psychological services. The present study employed a quantitative research method to explore and describe awareness and attitudes towards psychological services and referral practices in relation to psychological problems, of health care providers in Botswana. The participants in the study were chosen, based on a non-probability, purposive sampling method. The sample consisted of ninety-six persons and constituted medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and clinical social workers from governmental and non-governmental institutions from Gaborone and Francistown in Botswana. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviations. Frequency counts and percentages of the participants’ responses were computed. The results of the study revealed an awareness of available psychological services, positive attitudes towards psychology and psychological services and a reasonable percentage of referrals to psychological services. The results also revealed that available psychological services were limited and not easily accessible to patients. There was also an indication of a shortage of trained professionals to offer psychological services in health care centres, which resulted in psychological problems being referred to social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Biological activities of medicinal plants traditionally used to treat Septicaemia in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Chinyama, Robert Fred
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Materia medica, Vegetable -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10119 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1274 , Materia medica, Vegetable -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Over the past 25 years, there has been a resurgence of worldwide scientific research in the fields of ethnopharmacology. The Western world has acknowledged the continued use of traditional medicines by the majority of third world countries, and the need for novel drug development. Hence, much of the pharmaceutical research in recent years has focused on the ethnobotanical approach to drug discovery (Light et al., 2005). In South Africa, as in most developing parts of the world, traditional herbal medicine still forms the backbone of rural healthcare. The government health services in South Africa provide only western medical care although the majority of the population consult traditional healers for some or all of their healthcare needs (McGaw et al., 2005). Medicinal plants like Harpephyllum caffrum are used as blood purifiers or emetics (Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk, 1962), and also for treating acne and eczema. The antimicrobial activity of this plant can be used to treat septicaemia, which is ranked the sixth leading cause of death among neonates and the eighth leading cause of death for infants through the first year of life (Heron, 2007). In this study, the plants investigated for antimicrobial activity were Harpephyllum caffrum, Hermannia cuneifolia, Chironia baccifera, Rhigozum obovatum, Felicia muricata and Pentzia incana. These plants were tested against ATTC (American Type Culture Collection) strains and microorganisms isolated from clinical isolates of patients suffering from septicaemia. The assay methods used included the agar diffusion method using the Mast multipoint inoculator, the microtitre dilution method were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration, thin layer chromatography fingerprints accompanied by bioautographic assay were used to detect the inhibition of bacterial growth by active compounds separated from plant extracts and the Ames test was required to assess the possibility of bacterial mutagenesis upon the exposure to plant extracts which can lead to carcinogenicity. In agar diffusion method, extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum inhibited nine strains of Candida albicans, three species of Acinetobacter and four strains of E.faecalis. Extracts of Hermannia cuneifolia inhibited four strains of B.cereus and three strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Extracts of Chironia baccifera inhibited one strain of Acinetobacter and five strains of E.faecalis. Extracts of plants Rhigozum obovatum, Felicia muricata, and Pentzia incana showed no antimicrobial activity. In the microtitre dilution method used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the results were different from the agar diffusion method. More activity was observed. Extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum inhibited three strains of E.coli, six strains of S.aureus, three species of Acinetobacter and one strain of Klebsiella pneumonia. Extracts of Hermannia cuneifolia inhibited four strains of B.cereus, three strains of S.aureus, two strains of K.oxytoca and one species of Acinetobacter. Extracts of Chironia baccifera inhibited three strains of S.aureus, one strain of MRSA, one species of Acinetobacter and one strain of S.haemolyticus. The MIC values ranged from 0.049 to 6.25mg/ml. Using the thin layer chromatography fingerprints, bioautography showed the presence of various inhibitory chemical compounds. Methanol and acetone extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum, separated very well and showed various inhibition zones on exposure to Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. The different inhibition zones were recorded as Rf In the Ames test (Maron and Ames, 1983) the methanol and acetone extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum and Hermannia cuneifolia were negative which means they were devoid of any mutagenic properties. Methanol extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum showed similar results in the Ames assay as reported by Verschaeve and Van Staden (2008). values ranging from 0.25 to 0.95. The zones indicate the different inhibiting chemical compounds present in the plant. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform and formic acid were the solvents used in the assay in the ratio 8:7:5:1, respectively. Establishing the antimicrobial activity of these plants contribute to the systematic scientific investigation of indigenous South African medicinal plants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Chinyama, Robert Fred
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Materia medica, Vegetable -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10119 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1274 , Materia medica, Vegetable -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbs -- Therapeutic use -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Over the past 25 years, there has been a resurgence of worldwide scientific research in the fields of ethnopharmacology. The Western world has acknowledged the continued use of traditional medicines by the majority of third world countries, and the need for novel drug development. Hence, much of the pharmaceutical research in recent years has focused on the ethnobotanical approach to drug discovery (Light et al., 2005). In South Africa, as in most developing parts of the world, traditional herbal medicine still forms the backbone of rural healthcare. The government health services in South Africa provide only western medical care although the majority of the population consult traditional healers for some or all of their healthcare needs (McGaw et al., 2005). Medicinal plants like Harpephyllum caffrum are used as blood purifiers or emetics (Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk, 1962), and also for treating acne and eczema. The antimicrobial activity of this plant can be used to treat septicaemia, which is ranked the sixth leading cause of death among neonates and the eighth leading cause of death for infants through the first year of life (Heron, 2007). In this study, the plants investigated for antimicrobial activity were Harpephyllum caffrum, Hermannia cuneifolia, Chironia baccifera, Rhigozum obovatum, Felicia muricata and Pentzia incana. These plants were tested against ATTC (American Type Culture Collection) strains and microorganisms isolated from clinical isolates of patients suffering from septicaemia. The assay methods used included the agar diffusion method using the Mast multipoint inoculator, the microtitre dilution method were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration, thin layer chromatography fingerprints accompanied by bioautographic assay were used to detect the inhibition of bacterial growth by active compounds separated from plant extracts and the Ames test was required to assess the possibility of bacterial mutagenesis upon the exposure to plant extracts which can lead to carcinogenicity. In agar diffusion method, extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum inhibited nine strains of Candida albicans, three species of Acinetobacter and four strains of E.faecalis. Extracts of Hermannia cuneifolia inhibited four strains of B.cereus and three strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Extracts of Chironia baccifera inhibited one strain of Acinetobacter and five strains of E.faecalis. Extracts of plants Rhigozum obovatum, Felicia muricata, and Pentzia incana showed no antimicrobial activity. In the microtitre dilution method used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the results were different from the agar diffusion method. More activity was observed. Extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum inhibited three strains of E.coli, six strains of S.aureus, three species of Acinetobacter and one strain of Klebsiella pneumonia. Extracts of Hermannia cuneifolia inhibited four strains of B.cereus, three strains of S.aureus, two strains of K.oxytoca and one species of Acinetobacter. Extracts of Chironia baccifera inhibited three strains of S.aureus, one strain of MRSA, one species of Acinetobacter and one strain of S.haemolyticus. The MIC values ranged from 0.049 to 6.25mg/ml. Using the thin layer chromatography fingerprints, bioautography showed the presence of various inhibitory chemical compounds. Methanol and acetone extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum, separated very well and showed various inhibition zones on exposure to Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. The different inhibition zones were recorded as Rf In the Ames test (Maron and Ames, 1983) the methanol and acetone extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum and Hermannia cuneifolia were negative which means they were devoid of any mutagenic properties. Methanol extracts of Harpephyllum caffrum showed similar results in the Ames assay as reported by Verschaeve and Van Staden (2008). values ranging from 0.25 to 0.95. The zones indicate the different inhibiting chemical compounds present in the plant. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform and formic acid were the solvents used in the assay in the ratio 8:7:5:1, respectively. Establishing the antimicrobial activity of these plants contribute to the systematic scientific investigation of indigenous South African medicinal plants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Comparing the development of a sample of South African pre-school boys and girls utilizing the Griffiths Mental Development Scales-extended revised
- Authors: Jakins, Tamarin Ashlea
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Child development -- South Africa , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9904 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/990 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Child development -- South Africa , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa
- Description: Both children and adults share a common, culturally distinct view of what it means to be male or female. These gender stereotypes are pervasive in society and daily social interactions, and influence all aspects of gender development (Golombok & Fivush, 1994). The inherent physical differences of boys and girls may have triggered the speculation and accompanying myths surrounding the existence of gender differences in childhood development. Many people believe that boys and girls follow a different developmental path that lead to gender differences in intellectual ability. An up-to-date and integrative review of theory and research on gender indicates two opposing perspectives on the topic, with substantial information supporting each view. However, this is the first study to examine and compare a sample of South African pre-school boys and girls from a truly holistic developmental perspective on the recently released Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER). Developmental theorists have emphasized the profound impact early childhood development has on subsequent development, as it shapes the course of an individual’s life. Contemporary cognitive developmental theories, such as Demetriou’s (2000; 2004) developmental model of cognitive development, advance that child development does not progress in a fixed and predictable manner. Instead, Demetriou proposes that development occurs in a wave-like fashion, where the processes and functions of the various levels of the mind may be at differing points in their cycle of development. When one function progresses to a higher level, it unlocks the possibility for another function to advance to a different point in its cycle (Demetriou et al., 2002). As the significance of understanding the process of early childhood development more fully increases, so does the need to establish with more confidence the value and role of developmental assessment in the early identification of problems. The overall purpose of this study was to generate comparative information regarding the general development of a sample of 5- and 6-year-old South African pre-school boys and girls. Specifically, the study aimed to explore and describe the developmental profiles of pre-school boys and girls within the abovementioned age group with respect to their overall performance on the GMDS-ER as well as their performance on the six Subscales. Then, the mean General Quotients (GQ) and developmental profiles of the pre-school boys and girls obtained on the GMDS-ER were compared. An exploratory-descriptive quantitative research method was used. The sample (N = 64) was selected through a combination of non-probability, purposive and convenience xiii sampling. Within this framework, a between-subjects design in which matching was used to control extraneous variables, was employed. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and independent sample t-tests to compare the GQs of the gender groups. A Hotellings T2 was used to compare the Subscale profiles. No significant gender differences were found when comparing the overall developmental and Subscale profiles of the boys and girls on the GMDS-ER. However, certain interesting trends did emerge from a review of the findings when compared to the literature review and previous studies. The information generated from this study has contributed to our knowledge base of the performance of South African children on the recently released GMDS-ER.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Jakins, Tamarin Ashlea
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Child development -- South Africa , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9904 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/990 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Child development -- South Africa , Psychological tests for children -- South Africa
- Description: Both children and adults share a common, culturally distinct view of what it means to be male or female. These gender stereotypes are pervasive in society and daily social interactions, and influence all aspects of gender development (Golombok & Fivush, 1994). The inherent physical differences of boys and girls may have triggered the speculation and accompanying myths surrounding the existence of gender differences in childhood development. Many people believe that boys and girls follow a different developmental path that lead to gender differences in intellectual ability. An up-to-date and integrative review of theory and research on gender indicates two opposing perspectives on the topic, with substantial information supporting each view. However, this is the first study to examine and compare a sample of South African pre-school boys and girls from a truly holistic developmental perspective on the recently released Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER). Developmental theorists have emphasized the profound impact early childhood development has on subsequent development, as it shapes the course of an individual’s life. Contemporary cognitive developmental theories, such as Demetriou’s (2000; 2004) developmental model of cognitive development, advance that child development does not progress in a fixed and predictable manner. Instead, Demetriou proposes that development occurs in a wave-like fashion, where the processes and functions of the various levels of the mind may be at differing points in their cycle of development. When one function progresses to a higher level, it unlocks the possibility for another function to advance to a different point in its cycle (Demetriou et al., 2002). As the significance of understanding the process of early childhood development more fully increases, so does the need to establish with more confidence the value and role of developmental assessment in the early identification of problems. The overall purpose of this study was to generate comparative information regarding the general development of a sample of 5- and 6-year-old South African pre-school boys and girls. Specifically, the study aimed to explore and describe the developmental profiles of pre-school boys and girls within the abovementioned age group with respect to their overall performance on the GMDS-ER as well as their performance on the six Subscales. Then, the mean General Quotients (GQ) and developmental profiles of the pre-school boys and girls obtained on the GMDS-ER were compared. An exploratory-descriptive quantitative research method was used. The sample (N = 64) was selected through a combination of non-probability, purposive and convenience xiii sampling. Within this framework, a between-subjects design in which matching was used to control extraneous variables, was employed. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and independent sample t-tests to compare the GQs of the gender groups. A Hotellings T2 was used to compare the Subscale profiles. No significant gender differences were found when comparing the overall developmental and Subscale profiles of the boys and girls on the GMDS-ER. However, certain interesting trends did emerge from a review of the findings when compared to the literature review and previous studies. The information generated from this study has contributed to our knowledge base of the performance of South African children on the recently released GMDS-ER.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Coping strategies of African women middle managers in the manufacturing industry
- Authors: Mayeko, Ncedisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa , Stress management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9901 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1071 , Women executives -- South Africa , Stress management
- Description: African women in South Africa have for decades, if not centuries, been marginalized in the workplace. With the dawn of the new South Africa came Affirmative Action and subsequently, the Employment Equity Act. These policies offered African women opportunities to enter the workplace. The review of the literature shows that the psychological functioning of African women managers has received minimal research attention. In addition, the literature review on coping focused on the individual and communal coping strategies which indicated that individual and systemic strategies have been neglected in both the theories of coping and extant empirical literature. The current study addresses this through the conceptualisation of coping from a systemic perspective. The current study aimed to explore and describe the coping strategies of African women middle managers in the manufacturing industry in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. The study was conducted within a qualitative research paradigm and took the form of exploratory research. Non-probability snowball sampling was utilized to identify participants for the study. The sample consisted of three African women managers who held middle management positions in the manufacturing industry in the Nelson Mandela metropolitan area. Semi-structured interviewing was utilised to collect the data. In order to analyse the data, Tesch’s (1990) qualitative analysis steps were utilised. The study showed that African women middle managers relied on individual strategies such as assertiveness, spirituality and, positive attitude to cope. These individual strategies were not used in isolation, as the participants relied on various subsystems within which they were embedded to cope with the demands they faced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Mayeko, Ncedisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa , Stress management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9901 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1071 , Women executives -- South Africa , Stress management
- Description: African women in South Africa have for decades, if not centuries, been marginalized in the workplace. With the dawn of the new South Africa came Affirmative Action and subsequently, the Employment Equity Act. These policies offered African women opportunities to enter the workplace. The review of the literature shows that the psychological functioning of African women managers has received minimal research attention. In addition, the literature review on coping focused on the individual and communal coping strategies which indicated that individual and systemic strategies have been neglected in both the theories of coping and extant empirical literature. The current study addresses this through the conceptualisation of coping from a systemic perspective. The current study aimed to explore and describe the coping strategies of African women middle managers in the manufacturing industry in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. The study was conducted within a qualitative research paradigm and took the form of exploratory research. Non-probability snowball sampling was utilized to identify participants for the study. The sample consisted of three African women managers who held middle management positions in the manufacturing industry in the Nelson Mandela metropolitan area. Semi-structured interviewing was utilised to collect the data. In order to analyse the data, Tesch’s (1990) qualitative analysis steps were utilised. The study showed that African women middle managers relied on individual strategies such as assertiveness, spirituality and, positive attitude to cope. These individual strategies were not used in isolation, as the participants relied on various subsystems within which they were embedded to cope with the demands they faced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Curiosity, exploration, and strategies for dealing with uncertainty amongst psychologists-in-training
- Authors: Gerber, Ora
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Psychologists -- Training of -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching , Uncertainty -- Psychological aspects , Positive psychology -- South Africa , Risk-taking (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1238 , Psychologists -- Training of -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching , Uncertainty -- Psychological aspects , Positive psychology -- South Africa , Risk-taking (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Description: By adopting a positive psychology framework, the aim of this study was to explore and describe the level of curiosity and exploration amongst psychologists-in-training, and how they dealt with uncertainty in the context of their professional development. A mixed-method exploratory-descriptive research design was employed to collect the quantitative data by means of the Curiosity and Exploratory Inventory. The qualitative data were collected using semistructured interviews to explore how psychologists-in-training have dealt with uncertainty. Purposive-availability sampling was used to select the participants at three South African universities. A total number of 50 participants completed the CEI and six participants were interviewed. The data were analysed using mixed-method data analysis. It was found that participants had moderate-to-high levels of curiosity and exploration, with higher levels of exploration than absorption. The majority of participants reported that they actively sought as much information as they could and frequently looked for new opportunities to grow as persons. The strategies used by the selected group of participants to deal with uncertainty included: reliance on clinical supervision; consultation with peers; self-enhancement; reliance on theory; learning from practical experience; using certain cognitive appraisals; and self-care. Certain conclusions and recommendations were made based on the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Gerber, Ora
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Psychologists -- Training of -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching , Uncertainty -- Psychological aspects , Positive psychology -- South Africa , Risk-taking (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1238 , Psychologists -- Training of -- South Africa , Psychology -- Study and teaching , Uncertainty -- Psychological aspects , Positive psychology -- South Africa , Risk-taking (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Description: By adopting a positive psychology framework, the aim of this study was to explore and describe the level of curiosity and exploration amongst psychologists-in-training, and how they dealt with uncertainty in the context of their professional development. A mixed-method exploratory-descriptive research design was employed to collect the quantitative data by means of the Curiosity and Exploratory Inventory. The qualitative data were collected using semistructured interviews to explore how psychologists-in-training have dealt with uncertainty. Purposive-availability sampling was used to select the participants at three South African universities. A total number of 50 participants completed the CEI and six participants were interviewed. The data were analysed using mixed-method data analysis. It was found that participants had moderate-to-high levels of curiosity and exploration, with higher levels of exploration than absorption. The majority of participants reported that they actively sought as much information as they could and frequently looked for new opportunities to grow as persons. The strategies used by the selected group of participants to deal with uncertainty included: reliance on clinical supervision; consultation with peers; self-enhancement; reliance on theory; learning from practical experience; using certain cognitive appraisals; and self-care. Certain conclusions and recommendations were made based on the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Disclosure of HIV status and adherence to antiretroviral therapy
- Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1174 , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the leading chronic diseases affecting people in South Africa and throughout the world. This study aimed to investigate the effect disclosure of HIV status had on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. A convenience sample of 65 HIV positive adult patients currently taking ART at a public Primary Health Care (PHC) clinic in the Nelson Mandela Metropole was selected. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Data was collected using three tools/techniques: (1) a Patient Questionnaire (PQ) to extract information on patient's demographics, HIV disclosure status, regimen the patient was on and self-reported adherence to ART; (2) an audit of a Patient Medical Record (PMR) for information on the regimen the patient was on, the period during which the patient had been on ART medication, the adherence to ART care and the level of the patient‟s biological markers; and (3) Pill Counts (PC) performed on the patient's medical supply to validate the self-reported adherence to ART. There was no significant relationship between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART (p= 0.59; Chi²). However, the relationship between the adherence to ART and increase in the CD4 count levels of patients on ART in this population was significant (p=0.03; Chi²). It can be concluded that no direct relationship was found between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART in this population. However, several factors affected the reasons and decisions of individuals to disclose their HIV status and this influenced their daily taking of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1174 , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the leading chronic diseases affecting people in South Africa and throughout the world. This study aimed to investigate the effect disclosure of HIV status had on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. A convenience sample of 65 HIV positive adult patients currently taking ART at a public Primary Health Care (PHC) clinic in the Nelson Mandela Metropole was selected. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Data was collected using three tools/techniques: (1) a Patient Questionnaire (PQ) to extract information on patient's demographics, HIV disclosure status, regimen the patient was on and self-reported adherence to ART; (2) an audit of a Patient Medical Record (PMR) for information on the regimen the patient was on, the period during which the patient had been on ART medication, the adherence to ART care and the level of the patient‟s biological markers; and (3) Pill Counts (PC) performed on the patient's medical supply to validate the self-reported adherence to ART. There was no significant relationship between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART (p= 0.59; Chi²). However, the relationship between the adherence to ART and increase in the CD4 count levels of patients on ART in this population was significant (p=0.03; Chi²). It can be concluded that no direct relationship was found between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART in this population. However, several factors affected the reasons and decisions of individuals to disclose their HIV status and this influenced their daily taking of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Establishing explicit perspectives of personality for a sample of Xhosa-speaking South Africans
- Authors: Nopote, Nomvuyiseko Minty
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Personality assessment -- South Africa Cross-cultural studies , Psychological tests -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Language and languages -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Xhosa language -- South Africa -- Comparison
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9892 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1145 , Personality assessment -- South Africa Cross-cultural studies , Psychological tests -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Language and languages -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Xhosa language -- South Africa -- Comparison
- Description: Cross-cultural assessment in South Africa has become more prominent since the first democratic elections held in April 1994, as stronger demands for the cultural appropriateness of psychological tests have been made. The use of psychometric testing, including personality assessment in the workplace, is now strictly controlled by legislation, among others the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996), the Labour Relations Act (66 of 1995), and the Employment Equity Act (55 of 1998), and the Health Professions Act (56 of 1974). The present study forms part of the development process of the South African Personality Inventory (SAPI), which seeks to explore the indigenous personality structure of all the 11 official language groups found in South Africa and to then develop a personality inventory based on this. The present study aimed to explore and describe the personality facets and clusters that were found among a sample of 95 Xhosa-speaking South Africans. An exploratory descriptive research method was used and participants were selected by means of non-probability purposive sampling. Data were gathered by administering a biographical questionnaire and a tape-recorded 10- item interview questionnaire. Content analysis was used to analyse and reduce the data obtained from interviews into personality descriptors. Of the 1872 personality-descriptive words obtained from the interview questions, 164 facets of different personality characteristics were finally configured as a consequence of a data-reduction process. These facets were further categorised into a total of 37 personality sub-clusters and nine personality clusters which were labelled as Extraversion, Soft-heartedness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Intellect, Openness, Integrity, Relationship Harmony and Facilitating. These clusters and their sub-clusters resonate well with significant aspects and values of the Xhosa culture (e.g., Ubuntu). There also seems to be a moderate correspondence between the clusters and sub-clusters identified in the Xhosa-speaking sample and factors of the Five-Factor Model, especially with respect to the six clusters of Extraversion, Soft-heartedness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Intellect, and Openness. Nonetheless, differences in the composition of the clusters/facets were found, some of which are due to the more unique facets and sub-facets of personality identified in the Xhosa-speaking sample. The limitations of the study are identified and suggestions are made for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Nopote, Nomvuyiseko Minty
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Personality assessment -- South Africa Cross-cultural studies , Psychological tests -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Language and languages -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Xhosa language -- South Africa -- Comparison
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9892 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1145 , Personality assessment -- South Africa Cross-cultural studies , Psychological tests -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Language and languages -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Xhosa language -- South Africa -- Comparison
- Description: Cross-cultural assessment in South Africa has become more prominent since the first democratic elections held in April 1994, as stronger demands for the cultural appropriateness of psychological tests have been made. The use of psychometric testing, including personality assessment in the workplace, is now strictly controlled by legislation, among others the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996), the Labour Relations Act (66 of 1995), and the Employment Equity Act (55 of 1998), and the Health Professions Act (56 of 1974). The present study forms part of the development process of the South African Personality Inventory (SAPI), which seeks to explore the indigenous personality structure of all the 11 official language groups found in South Africa and to then develop a personality inventory based on this. The present study aimed to explore and describe the personality facets and clusters that were found among a sample of 95 Xhosa-speaking South Africans. An exploratory descriptive research method was used and participants were selected by means of non-probability purposive sampling. Data were gathered by administering a biographical questionnaire and a tape-recorded 10- item interview questionnaire. Content analysis was used to analyse and reduce the data obtained from interviews into personality descriptors. Of the 1872 personality-descriptive words obtained from the interview questions, 164 facets of different personality characteristics were finally configured as a consequence of a data-reduction process. These facets were further categorised into a total of 37 personality sub-clusters and nine personality clusters which were labelled as Extraversion, Soft-heartedness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Intellect, Openness, Integrity, Relationship Harmony and Facilitating. These clusters and their sub-clusters resonate well with significant aspects and values of the Xhosa culture (e.g., Ubuntu). There also seems to be a moderate correspondence between the clusters and sub-clusters identified in the Xhosa-speaking sample and factors of the Five-Factor Model, especially with respect to the six clusters of Extraversion, Soft-heartedness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Intellect, and Openness. Nonetheless, differences in the composition of the clusters/facets were found, some of which are due to the more unique facets and sub-facets of personality identified in the Xhosa-speaking sample. The limitations of the study are identified and suggestions are made for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Exploring relocation experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in Port Elizabeth
- Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Authors: Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9999 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1068 , Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Large numbers of migrants enter South Africa legally and illegally in search of a better life, personal safety and security (Pretorius, 2004:1). The research study explored and described experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in the host country, the challenges they encountered in the process of integration regarding families in their country of origin and their “new” families in the host country, the strategies they employed to get recognition even if it led to being involved in fraudulent activities. The research has also explored the impact of laws in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers for example the Refugee Act (Act 130 of 1998), the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002), the 1969 OAU Convention and the 1951 United Nations Convention. A qualitative research approach was used to frame the study, which employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design so as to understand challenges experienced by refugees and asylum seekers. The sample for the study was a purposively selected sample recruited using the snowball sampling technique. As a means of collecting data semi-structured interviews were utilized. The eight steps as stipulated by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994) were used to analyse data. To ensure trustworthiness the four criteria as suggested by Guba (in Krefting, 1991) were applied, namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality. The findings and recommendations are made available by means of a research report The research findings were centered on the following themes: (1) Refugees and asylum seekers articulate a range of reasons behind the decision to leave their home country. (2) Refugees and asylum seekers express negative experiences regarding leaving their country of origin. (3) Refugees and asylum seekers experience a range of feelings as they enter the host country (4) Refugees and asylum seekers report that they and their families experience a number of challenges as a result of relocation (5) Refugees and asylum seekers employ negative and positive strategies to cope with challenges of relocation (6) Suggestions made by refugees and asylum seekers concerning the involvement of Social Workers (7) Suggestions made by refugees/asylum seekers to Home Affairs in terms of improving services to refugees and asylum seekers Substance findings: the results emerged from the data collected through the themes and sub-themes identified during data analysis. Conclusions and recommendations: Based on the findings conclusions were drawn and recommendations proposed from the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9999 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1068 , Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Large numbers of migrants enter South Africa legally and illegally in search of a better life, personal safety and security (Pretorius, 2004:1). The research study explored and described experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in the host country, the challenges they encountered in the process of integration regarding families in their country of origin and their “new” families in the host country, the strategies they employed to get recognition even if it led to being involved in fraudulent activities. The research has also explored the impact of laws in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers for example the Refugee Act (Act 130 of 1998), the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002), the 1969 OAU Convention and the 1951 United Nations Convention. A qualitative research approach was used to frame the study, which employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design so as to understand challenges experienced by refugees and asylum seekers. The sample for the study was a purposively selected sample recruited using the snowball sampling technique. As a means of collecting data semi-structured interviews were utilized. The eight steps as stipulated by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994) were used to analyse data. To ensure trustworthiness the four criteria as suggested by Guba (in Krefting, 1991) were applied, namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality. The findings and recommendations are made available by means of a research report The research findings were centered on the following themes: (1) Refugees and asylum seekers articulate a range of reasons behind the decision to leave their home country. (2) Refugees and asylum seekers express negative experiences regarding leaving their country of origin. (3) Refugees and asylum seekers experience a range of feelings as they enter the host country (4) Refugees and asylum seekers report that they and their families experience a number of challenges as a result of relocation (5) Refugees and asylum seekers employ negative and positive strategies to cope with challenges of relocation (6) Suggestions made by refugees and asylum seekers concerning the involvement of Social Workers (7) Suggestions made by refugees/asylum seekers to Home Affairs in terms of improving services to refugees and asylum seekers Substance findings: the results emerged from the data collected through the themes and sub-themes identified during data analysis. Conclusions and recommendations: Based on the findings conclusions were drawn and recommendations proposed from the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Exploring the statistical equivalence of the English and Xhosa versions of the Woodcock-Munõz Language Survey
- Authors: Ntantiso, Mzamo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Equivalence (Linguistics) , Woodcock-Muñoz Language Survey
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9952 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018620
- Description: This study explored statistical equivalence of the adapted Xhosa and English version of the Woodcock-Muñoz Language Survey (WMLS) by investigating group differences on each subscale, in terms of mean scores, index reliability, and item characteristics for two language groups. A Convenience quota sampling technique was used to select 188 Xhosa (n = 188) and 198 English (n = 198) learners from Grades 6 and 7 living in rural and urban Eastern Cape. The WMLS Xhosa and English versions were administered to learners in their first languages. Significant mean group differences were found, but differences were not found on the reliability indices, or mean item characteristics. This pointed in the direction of statistical equivalence. However, scrutiny of the item characteristics of the individual items per subscale indicated possible problems at an item level that need to be investigated further with differential functioning analyses. Thus, stringent DIF analyses were suggested for future research on DIF items before the versions of the WMLS can be considered as equivalent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Ntantiso, Mzamo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Equivalence (Linguistics) , Woodcock-Muñoz Language Survey
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9952 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018620
- Description: This study explored statistical equivalence of the adapted Xhosa and English version of the Woodcock-Muñoz Language Survey (WMLS) by investigating group differences on each subscale, in terms of mean scores, index reliability, and item characteristics for two language groups. A Convenience quota sampling technique was used to select 188 Xhosa (n = 188) and 198 English (n = 198) learners from Grades 6 and 7 living in rural and urban Eastern Cape. The WMLS Xhosa and English versions were administered to learners in their first languages. Significant mean group differences were found, but differences were not found on the reliability indices, or mean item characteristics. This pointed in the direction of statistical equivalence. However, scrutiny of the item characteristics of the individual items per subscale indicated possible problems at an item level that need to be investigated further with differential functioning analyses. Thus, stringent DIF analyses were suggested for future research on DIF items before the versions of the WMLS can be considered as equivalent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Factors affecting AIDS orphans' from accessing voluntary counselling and testing (VCT)
- Authors: Maama, Lineo Bernadette
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients -- South Africa , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Testing , Orphans -- Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10000 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1046 , Children of AIDS patients -- South Africa , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Testing , Orphans -- Services for
- Description: The study seeks to explore and identify factors that prevent AIDS orphans in presenting themselves for Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). Socio-cultural factors, notably, stigma and the resultant discrimination by community members, have been presented by many researchers as the main aetiological factors that hinder the use of VCT by AIDS orphans. It is on the basis of this that this study was conducted to identify factors that hinder AIDS orphans from accessing VCT. The study used a qualitative approach following an explorative and descriptive, contextual research design and was conducted at Ubuntu Education Fund, Port Elizabeth. Purposive sampling was used to determine a sample of AIDS orphans. Participants of the study had to be orphaned as a result of AIDS, isiXhosa-speaking, between 12-17 years, living in the care of a primary care-giver and had not presented themselves for VCT. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Semi-structured interviews are suitable in cases where the researcher is interested in an issue that is complex or personal (De Vos, Strydom, Fouche and Deloport, 2005). Data was analyzed according to the framework provided by Tesch (1990) as described in Creswell (2003). The major findings of this study were that people are locked in a ‘poverty-of-the mind cycle’, in respect of HIV and AIDS, and this is exacerbated by educational impoverishment and general poverty. The recommendations that emanated from this study are made from policy and service delivery perspectives. It is recommended that in order for AIDS orphans to access VCT they should be developed and empowered through sustainable programmes that enhance their capacities to the outmost realization of their potential. It is also recommended that health and other professionals should encourage AIDS orphans and community members to present themselves for VCT and thus curb the spread of HIV and AIDS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Maama, Lineo Bernadette
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Children of AIDS patients -- South Africa , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Testing , Orphans -- Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10000 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1046 , Children of AIDS patients -- South Africa , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Testing , Orphans -- Services for
- Description: The study seeks to explore and identify factors that prevent AIDS orphans in presenting themselves for Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). Socio-cultural factors, notably, stigma and the resultant discrimination by community members, have been presented by many researchers as the main aetiological factors that hinder the use of VCT by AIDS orphans. It is on the basis of this that this study was conducted to identify factors that hinder AIDS orphans from accessing VCT. The study used a qualitative approach following an explorative and descriptive, contextual research design and was conducted at Ubuntu Education Fund, Port Elizabeth. Purposive sampling was used to determine a sample of AIDS orphans. Participants of the study had to be orphaned as a result of AIDS, isiXhosa-speaking, between 12-17 years, living in the care of a primary care-giver and had not presented themselves for VCT. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Semi-structured interviews are suitable in cases where the researcher is interested in an issue that is complex or personal (De Vos, Strydom, Fouche and Deloport, 2005). Data was analyzed according to the framework provided by Tesch (1990) as described in Creswell (2003). The major findings of this study were that people are locked in a ‘poverty-of-the mind cycle’, in respect of HIV and AIDS, and this is exacerbated by educational impoverishment and general poverty. The recommendations that emanated from this study are made from policy and service delivery perspectives. It is recommended that in order for AIDS orphans to access VCT they should be developed and empowered through sustainable programmes that enhance their capacities to the outmost realization of their potential. It is also recommended that health and other professionals should encourage AIDS orphans and community members to present themselves for VCT and thus curb the spread of HIV and AIDS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Guidelines for the management of patients with diabetes mellitus at health care clinics in the Cacadu region of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- De Mendonça, Hester Magdalena
- Authors: De Mendonça, Hester Magdalena
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10011 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1017 , Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is the new epidemic in the world with 246 million people suffering from the disease at the moment and a projected increase to 380 million in 2025 (IDF, 2007b:36). The developing countries are the most vulnerable. Statistics state that SA and Egypt have the most diabetics on the continent. Globally, each year 3,8 million deaths are attributable to DM (IDF, 2007a). The Department of Health (DOH) and the Cacadu District Municipality (Eastern Cape) are serving a population of 102 721 in the Kouga and Koukamma areas, which covers an area of 5 992 km², with health care. There are 22 clinics with 28 registered nurses for all the clinics and between 3 and 9 lay health workers (LHWs) per clinic. For the purpose of this research study, the persons suffering from DM (±3550) in this area were taken into consideration (Strydom, 2005). DM is a chronic disorder and therefore patients should be able to manage their disease pattern for the rest of their lives (Healthline, 2008, Mbanya, 2006:12). In order to achieve this, continuous and effective patient education by health care providers are necessary. This disease affects more and more people each passing day, because of the rapid westernisation of the South African population, leading to more people attending clinics in the public health sector (Bonnici, 2002:32). There are specific guidelines laid down by the Department of Health (DOH) pertaining to the control and management of DM. Guidelines include the early diagnosis, treatment and patient education regarding DM (Department of Health, 1997, [revised 2004]). Evidence from previous research studies showed that not all registered nurses are aware of these guidelines and most have not been educated regarding the utilisation of these guidelines (O’Brien, van Rooyen & Carlson, 2006:36-40). In the clinics, the health care givers are confronted with a number of difficulties, such as a lack of funds to enable them to order adequate equipment and medicine. Another problem is the migration of registered nurses out of the country thus; there is also a shortage of staff to operate these clinics (Mkhize, 2004). The organisational structure in the clinics does not function optimally and there is a lack of communication between provincial, district and clinic level. Due to the above-mentioned challenges there is also a lack of efficient auditing systems to ensure quality assurance. Furthermore, a knowledge deficit pertaining to DM and the management thereof in all the groups participating in this study, namely the registered nurses, the lay health workers (LHWs) and the diabetic patients was found. The empowerment process of the LHW is not explored fully and therefore not executed to its full potential. To be able to improve the management of DM in this region, it is important to know what the difficulties are that the health care givers as well as the patients experience in relation to this issue. This study therefore explored and described these difficulties. The research was based on a qualitative, quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design. Health care givers as well as diabetic patients attending clinics in the Cacadu region of the Eastern Cape have been requested to complete questionnaires pertaining to their knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus. The current organisational structure of the provincial department of health was explored and findings analysed using the activities of the management process (Muller, 2006:106). The SA Government is committed to combining the national human resource development strategy with the rapid upgrading of service delivery to all of the nation’s communities. Stemming from this undertaking, suitable members of the community are to be trained as LHWs. LHWs are to play an integral role in strengthening the abilities of the community to empower themselves to participate and take responsibility for their own health and wellness (Department of Health, 2001a:4). From the research, it was found that the above-mentioned national plan had been implemented, but is not functioning at optimum level due to several shortcomings/deficits. Proposed guidelines were therefore designed to address the shortcomings and fragmentation of the plan. As specific knowledge deficits in DM were identified during this research study, general educational guidelines were included for the registered nurses and the diabetic patients. The LHW was identified as an indispensable link in the chain of efficient health care and therefore, specific educational guidelines on DM were generated to prepare her for the role. With her knowledge, insight into DM and the management thereof and newly required skills in educating and supporting of the patient, she could be an asset in the road to optimum self-care for the diabetic patient.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: De Mendonça, Hester Magdalena
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCur
- Identifier: vital:10011 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1017 , Diabetics -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is the new epidemic in the world with 246 million people suffering from the disease at the moment and a projected increase to 380 million in 2025 (IDF, 2007b:36). The developing countries are the most vulnerable. Statistics state that SA and Egypt have the most diabetics on the continent. Globally, each year 3,8 million deaths are attributable to DM (IDF, 2007a). The Department of Health (DOH) and the Cacadu District Municipality (Eastern Cape) are serving a population of 102 721 in the Kouga and Koukamma areas, which covers an area of 5 992 km², with health care. There are 22 clinics with 28 registered nurses for all the clinics and between 3 and 9 lay health workers (LHWs) per clinic. For the purpose of this research study, the persons suffering from DM (±3550) in this area were taken into consideration (Strydom, 2005). DM is a chronic disorder and therefore patients should be able to manage their disease pattern for the rest of their lives (Healthline, 2008, Mbanya, 2006:12). In order to achieve this, continuous and effective patient education by health care providers are necessary. This disease affects more and more people each passing day, because of the rapid westernisation of the South African population, leading to more people attending clinics in the public health sector (Bonnici, 2002:32). There are specific guidelines laid down by the Department of Health (DOH) pertaining to the control and management of DM. Guidelines include the early diagnosis, treatment and patient education regarding DM (Department of Health, 1997, [revised 2004]). Evidence from previous research studies showed that not all registered nurses are aware of these guidelines and most have not been educated regarding the utilisation of these guidelines (O’Brien, van Rooyen & Carlson, 2006:36-40). In the clinics, the health care givers are confronted with a number of difficulties, such as a lack of funds to enable them to order adequate equipment and medicine. Another problem is the migration of registered nurses out of the country thus; there is also a shortage of staff to operate these clinics (Mkhize, 2004). The organisational structure in the clinics does not function optimally and there is a lack of communication between provincial, district and clinic level. Due to the above-mentioned challenges there is also a lack of efficient auditing systems to ensure quality assurance. Furthermore, a knowledge deficit pertaining to DM and the management thereof in all the groups participating in this study, namely the registered nurses, the lay health workers (LHWs) and the diabetic patients was found. The empowerment process of the LHW is not explored fully and therefore not executed to its full potential. To be able to improve the management of DM in this region, it is important to know what the difficulties are that the health care givers as well as the patients experience in relation to this issue. This study therefore explored and described these difficulties. The research was based on a qualitative, quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design. Health care givers as well as diabetic patients attending clinics in the Cacadu region of the Eastern Cape have been requested to complete questionnaires pertaining to their knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus. The current organisational structure of the provincial department of health was explored and findings analysed using the activities of the management process (Muller, 2006:106). The SA Government is committed to combining the national human resource development strategy with the rapid upgrading of service delivery to all of the nation’s communities. Stemming from this undertaking, suitable members of the community are to be trained as LHWs. LHWs are to play an integral role in strengthening the abilities of the community to empower themselves to participate and take responsibility for their own health and wellness (Department of Health, 2001a:4). From the research, it was found that the above-mentioned national plan had been implemented, but is not functioning at optimum level due to several shortcomings/deficits. Proposed guidelines were therefore designed to address the shortcomings and fragmentation of the plan. As specific knowledge deficits in DM were identified during this research study, general educational guidelines were included for the registered nurses and the diabetic patients. The LHW was identified as an indispensable link in the chain of efficient health care and therefore, specific educational guidelines on DM were generated to prepare her for the role. With her knowledge, insight into DM and the management thereof and newly required skills in educating and supporting of the patient, she could be an asset in the road to optimum self-care for the diabetic patient.
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- Date Issued: 2009