Indifference and Epistemic Injustice: Phenomenological Reflections
- Roos,R
- Authors: Roos,R
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Epistemic logic , Virtue epistemology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27150 , vital:66324
- Description: The proposed research seeks to address salient questions concerning the relation of indifference and epistemic injustice. This involves questions dealing with the necessary and sufficient conditions for indifference; how it arises through our conditions of lived experience and how it extends to the production, maintenance and engagement with knowledge. In short, to what extent does indifference play a role in epistemic injustice? Conversely, to what extent does epistemic injustice relate to indifference? The proposed research will explore major concepts of the relation between indifference and epistemic injustice. The research will settle on a phenomenological approach. Its claim is that major contemporary concepts of indifference and injustice can be critically informed by a phenomenological analysis of these concepts. Thus, it will attempt to analyse the relation of indifference and injustice from within the context of our lived conditions of experience. Ultimately, this research will try to locate the similarities between the experience of indifference and the act of epistemic injustice. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Roos,R
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Epistemic logic , Virtue epistemology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27150 , vital:66324
- Description: The proposed research seeks to address salient questions concerning the relation of indifference and epistemic injustice. This involves questions dealing with the necessary and sufficient conditions for indifference; how it arises through our conditions of lived experience and how it extends to the production, maintenance and engagement with knowledge. In short, to what extent does indifference play a role in epistemic injustice? Conversely, to what extent does epistemic injustice relate to indifference? The proposed research will explore major concepts of the relation between indifference and epistemic injustice. The research will settle on a phenomenological approach. Its claim is that major contemporary concepts of indifference and injustice can be critically informed by a phenomenological analysis of these concepts. Thus, it will attempt to analyse the relation of indifference and injustice from within the context of our lived conditions of experience. Ultimately, this research will try to locate the similarities between the experience of indifference and the act of epistemic injustice. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
The nexus between petroleum energy security and South Africa’s foreign policy
- Authors: Seshibedi S S
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- Government policy , Energy industries , Petroleum law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27165 , vital:66325
- Description: This study sets out to explore the nexus between South Africa’s petroleum energy security and its foreign policy. The specific objectives of the research include: to find out the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, the extent to which oil is a consideration in the development of the country’s foreign policy and the extent to which its foreign policy is framed to favour oil exporting states. Qualitative research methodology is applied in this study with the Realism as the theoretical framework. The study found out that the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, which compels the country to rely on foreign oil, provides grounds for foreign policy intervention, with discernible espousal of relations with oil exporting states that is different to those that do not produce oil. The study also found that oil is a consideration in the development of South Africa’s foreign policy, as the country’s policy strategy towards oil exporting states is to build relations of bilateral nature, through diplomatic instruments, among others. South Africa’s regional politics makes discernible the fact that South Africa prefers a policy of multilateralism to manage its relations with SADC and SACU members who are not oil exporting, while evidence showed that bilateral relations are preferred towards oil exporting states. The study recommends amongst others, that South Africa’s over-reliance on foreign oil can be mitigated by taking the lead in transitioning to renewable energy. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Seshibedi S S
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- Government policy , Energy industries , Petroleum law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27165 , vital:66325
- Description: This study sets out to explore the nexus between South Africa’s petroleum energy security and its foreign policy. The specific objectives of the research include: to find out the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, the extent to which oil is a consideration in the development of the country’s foreign policy and the extent to which its foreign policy is framed to favour oil exporting states. Qualitative research methodology is applied in this study with the Realism as the theoretical framework. The study found out that the state of South Africa’s oil energy security, which compels the country to rely on foreign oil, provides grounds for foreign policy intervention, with discernible espousal of relations with oil exporting states that is different to those that do not produce oil. The study also found that oil is a consideration in the development of South Africa’s foreign policy, as the country’s policy strategy towards oil exporting states is to build relations of bilateral nature, through diplomatic instruments, among others. South Africa’s regional politics makes discernible the fact that South Africa prefers a policy of multilateralism to manage its relations with SADC and SACU members who are not oil exporting, while evidence showed that bilateral relations are preferred towards oil exporting states. The study recommends amongst others, that South Africa’s over-reliance on foreign oil can be mitigated by taking the lead in transitioning to renewable energy. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
From the lens of isiXhosa female writers: female protagonists and the use of non-conformity in challenging gender roles in the post liberation isixhosa literature
- Authors: Zeleni, Olwethu
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Women in literature , Feminism and literature , Xhosa literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23840 , vital:60915
- Description: This dissertation explored the way women are presented in five isiXhosa literary works by female writers in post independence South Africa, with particular focus on how non-conformity is used to challenge gender roles. The study analysed two novels entitled Iqhina lomtshato (1995) by Nomlamli Mayosi and Uzenzile akakhalelwa (2016) by Yolisa Madolo, as well as four drama books titled Nyana nank’unyoko (1997) by Yoliswa Taleni, Akwaba (2004) by Thenjiswa Ntwana, Hamba nam ndipheleke and Imida (2015) by Nompumezo Buzani. Structural, Afrocentrism and African feminism were used to guide the study. The structural theory gave the researcher to review language contructs in relation to gender, African feminism and Afrocentrism gave the researcher the lenses to view gender issues within the African context, in line with the peculiar challenges that women continue to face in the content. Another important factor which is the focus of the study is the depiction of women by female writers, in order to challenge the roles that are given to women. The question that one ask then is: How do female writers lend their voices to female characters to address gender issues in society, with particular focus on gender roles? This thesis argues that the five isiXhosa female writers, who are contemporary African women writers, have noticed gender related assumptions and in their works, they are making an attempt to debunk these assumptions. It is hoped that this study will contribute to the existing debates on gender and division of labour. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
- Authors: Zeleni, Olwethu
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Women in literature , Feminism and literature , Xhosa literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23840 , vital:60915
- Description: This dissertation explored the way women are presented in five isiXhosa literary works by female writers in post independence South Africa, with particular focus on how non-conformity is used to challenge gender roles. The study analysed two novels entitled Iqhina lomtshato (1995) by Nomlamli Mayosi and Uzenzile akakhalelwa (2016) by Yolisa Madolo, as well as four drama books titled Nyana nank’unyoko (1997) by Yoliswa Taleni, Akwaba (2004) by Thenjiswa Ntwana, Hamba nam ndipheleke and Imida (2015) by Nompumezo Buzani. Structural, Afrocentrism and African feminism were used to guide the study. The structural theory gave the researcher to review language contructs in relation to gender, African feminism and Afrocentrism gave the researcher the lenses to view gender issues within the African context, in line with the peculiar challenges that women continue to face in the content. Another important factor which is the focus of the study is the depiction of women by female writers, in order to challenge the roles that are given to women. The question that one ask then is: How do female writers lend their voices to female characters to address gender issues in society, with particular focus on gender roles? This thesis argues that the five isiXhosa female writers, who are contemporary African women writers, have noticed gender related assumptions and in their works, they are making an attempt to debunk these assumptions. It is hoped that this study will contribute to the existing debates on gender and division of labour. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
Images of black women during the period of slavery: perspectives from selected African American female authored texts
- Authors: Makwela, Nombeko B
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Slavery , Enslaved women , Enslaved persons' writings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27117 , vital:66304
- Description: The study sought to interrogate the narratives of Black African-American women during the period of slavery. It analysed three literary works written by women, namely The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1992), Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs (1988) and Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987). The plot is on all the horrors, inhumanity, degradation, the sexual abuse, struggles and social injustices that the African-American women were subjected to under slavery. The study employed a case study design, as it analysed the three selected literary works. Critical analysis and close reading were employed to arrive at themes. The study not only illuminated the harsh reality of the experiences of African-American women, but it has also revealed the harrowing conditions that they encountered. These women suffered immensely under the yoke of dual oppression. Their horrors varied in gravity in the form of beatings and lynching, sexual abuse, having their children taken from them to be auctioned off, loss of identity and loss of human dignity among the countless social injustices they experienced. The study used the psychoanalytic feminist theory as a theoretical lens. Through the depiction of women in slavery in the literary works of Toni Morrison, Harriet Jacobs and Alice Walker, the case study approach revealed that women are resilient. Contrary to portrayals of women under the stereotyped labelling of women as wanton or promiscuous, with no virtues or principles, the female characters in the three novels are victims of slavery and patriarchy. In Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, the women characters, namely Celie, Squeak and Shug Avery, are not in the least immoral, nor do they lack virtues or principles; they are, as the analysis shows, self-loving women that have been victims of dual oppression. In Toni Morrison’s Beloved, the love of a mother for her children drives Sethe to commit infanticide, believing this to be the better option than allowing her children to suffer and endure the horrors of slavery. In Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs chooses to use her feminine sexuality to align herself to one man, Mr Sands, and her intelligence to stay in this relationship is her escape and deterrent strategy against the lecherous sexual exploitations by other white masters. She ends up bearing two children for this same man, reflecting her stability as a self-loving woman who was not wayward. Findings established that even through all the plights of slavery, African-American women made difficult yet relevant choices under the twin yokes of slavery and patriarchy. They may have been subjected or compelled to make morally unsavoury choices or to compromise on their principles for survival or succumb under situations that reduced them to being victims or sacrificial lambs for the satisfaction of the slave owners, but they never lacked principles and they were not promiscuous. The will to survive drove the women in the narratives to design and adopt survival strategies to sustain their livelihoods. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
- Authors: Makwela, Nombeko B
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Slavery , Enslaved women , Enslaved persons' writings
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27117 , vital:66304
- Description: The study sought to interrogate the narratives of Black African-American women during the period of slavery. It analysed three literary works written by women, namely The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1992), Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs (1988) and Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987). The plot is on all the horrors, inhumanity, degradation, the sexual abuse, struggles and social injustices that the African-American women were subjected to under slavery. The study employed a case study design, as it analysed the three selected literary works. Critical analysis and close reading were employed to arrive at themes. The study not only illuminated the harsh reality of the experiences of African-American women, but it has also revealed the harrowing conditions that they encountered. These women suffered immensely under the yoke of dual oppression. Their horrors varied in gravity in the form of beatings and lynching, sexual abuse, having their children taken from them to be auctioned off, loss of identity and loss of human dignity among the countless social injustices they experienced. The study used the psychoanalytic feminist theory as a theoretical lens. Through the depiction of women in slavery in the literary works of Toni Morrison, Harriet Jacobs and Alice Walker, the case study approach revealed that women are resilient. Contrary to portrayals of women under the stereotyped labelling of women as wanton or promiscuous, with no virtues or principles, the female characters in the three novels are victims of slavery and patriarchy. In Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, the women characters, namely Celie, Squeak and Shug Avery, are not in the least immoral, nor do they lack virtues or principles; they are, as the analysis shows, self-loving women that have been victims of dual oppression. In Toni Morrison’s Beloved, the love of a mother for her children drives Sethe to commit infanticide, believing this to be the better option than allowing her children to suffer and endure the horrors of slavery. In Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs chooses to use her feminine sexuality to align herself to one man, Mr Sands, and her intelligence to stay in this relationship is her escape and deterrent strategy against the lecherous sexual exploitations by other white masters. She ends up bearing two children for this same man, reflecting her stability as a self-loving woman who was not wayward. Findings established that even through all the plights of slavery, African-American women made difficult yet relevant choices under the twin yokes of slavery and patriarchy. They may have been subjected or compelled to make morally unsavoury choices or to compromise on their principles for survival or succumb under situations that reduced them to being victims or sacrificial lambs for the satisfaction of the slave owners, but they never lacked principles and they were not promiscuous. The will to survive drove the women in the narratives to design and adopt survival strategies to sustain their livelihoods. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
The South African media portrayal of Sindisiwe Manqele’s intimate partner homicide Case of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi: A feminist narrative analysis
- Authors: Ntweni, Nosiphiwo
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Homicide -- Psychological aspects , Content analysis (Communication)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23787 , vital:60542
- Description: The story construction of intimate partner homicide in the media reflects the inherent influence the media has on the society and the shaping of its attitudes. This study uses an exploratory qualitative research design with the aim that is to investigate how the South African news media constructs and narrates the Intimate Partner Homicide of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi by Sindisiwe Manqele. This objective was achieved through feminist narrative analysis of 30 South African media articles, with an underpinning theory of feminist constructionism. Feminist constructionism is a theoretical framework that ties together feminist psychology and social constructionist methods. The main ideas followed by the S.A. media reporters were sub-divided into three main deductive themes; ‘sad/victim’, ‘mad’ and ‘bad’. Overall, Manqele as a character, was demonised and portrayed as a villain, which followed the bad narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative followed, and then the ‘mad’ narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative frames Manqele as a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV). The ‘mad’ narrative showed up in the smallest number of the sample represented her as unstable and irrational. The ‘bad’ Manqele was primarily depicted as wicked and evil manipulator, the jealous, cold-blooded killer, and a promiscuous, sexual deviant. The possibility of history of IPV in the relationship its context was largely ignored. The narrative about rappers made allowances for the use of drugs, living a life of sexual experimentation and living with culture of aggression. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
- Authors: Ntweni, Nosiphiwo
- Date: 2022-01
- Subjects: Homicide -- Psychological aspects , Content analysis (Communication)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23787 , vital:60542
- Description: The story construction of intimate partner homicide in the media reflects the inherent influence the media has on the society and the shaping of its attitudes. This study uses an exploratory qualitative research design with the aim that is to investigate how the South African news media constructs and narrates the Intimate Partner Homicide of Nkululeko ‘Flabba’ Habedi by Sindisiwe Manqele. This objective was achieved through feminist narrative analysis of 30 South African media articles, with an underpinning theory of feminist constructionism. Feminist constructionism is a theoretical framework that ties together feminist psychology and social constructionist methods. The main ideas followed by the S.A. media reporters were sub-divided into three main deductive themes; ‘sad/victim’, ‘mad’ and ‘bad’. Overall, Manqele as a character, was demonised and portrayed as a villain, which followed the bad narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative followed, and then the ‘mad’ narrative. The ‘sad/victim’ narrative frames Manqele as a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV). The ‘mad’ narrative showed up in the smallest number of the sample represented her as unstable and irrational. The ‘bad’ Manqele was primarily depicted as wicked and evil manipulator, the jealous, cold-blooded killer, and a promiscuous, sexual deviant. The possibility of history of IPV in the relationship its context was largely ignored. The narrative about rappers made allowances for the use of drugs, living a life of sexual experimentation and living with culture of aggression. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-01
The perceived success of selected therapy programmes on mitigating the relapses of patients with substance use disorders in Gauteng, South Africa
- Authors: Chatikobo, Nyasha
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Substance abuse -- Treatment , Psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21860 , vital:51833
- Description: This study aimed at evaluating the perceived success of selected therapy programs in mitigating the relapse of patients with substance use disorders at two selected rehabilitation centres in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The methodology used for this study was a mixed-method approach, although more emphasis was on qualitative methods. The qualitative data was collected from four focus groups, and 6 in-depth interviews from key informants. The quantitative data was collected using questionnaires that were completed by 100 primary carers of discharged patients from the selected drug treatment centres. The main findings of the study showed that substance use disorder is a complex disease that requires several factors to be considered to avoid any relapses. The study showed that rehabilitation centres are hugely contributing to efforts of solving substance use in Gauteng and South Africa as a whole. These rehabilitation centres offered various treatment programs to individuals who suffer from substance use disorders. The findings also indicated that the selected therapy programmes at the rehabilitation centres met their objectives. However, some of the programmes were successful in mitigating the relapses of patients recovering from addiction to a lesser extent. The study also found out that the number of individuals who relapse is relatively high, however, the study did not dive into the depth of the causing factors. This may be room for future studies. Findings further indicated that the rehabilitation centres lacked in the application of a holistic approach to addiction treatment, even though there were several treatment programs offered. The issue of exorbitant residential fees in private rehabilitation facilities was also highlighted by the data collected. The research concluded by suggesting several recommendations such as research to improve policy for substance use with a focus on the human rights approach to the drug problem. Recommendations to the Department of Social Development which is responsible for the rehabilitation centres in South Africa. To ensure that all centres that are registered for offering treatment for substance use disorder be mandated to use a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach, diversifying and individualizing treatments for better outcomes. Lastly, recommendations were suggested to the social work practice, to support rehabilitation facilities by providing continuous specialized training to their social workers. Recommendations to social work training and curriculum to include in-depth substance use disorders during education, training, and field placements, for best practice amongst new social work practitioners placed in rehabilitation centres. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Chatikobo, Nyasha
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Substance abuse -- Treatment , Psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21860 , vital:51833
- Description: This study aimed at evaluating the perceived success of selected therapy programs in mitigating the relapse of patients with substance use disorders at two selected rehabilitation centres in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The methodology used for this study was a mixed-method approach, although more emphasis was on qualitative methods. The qualitative data was collected from four focus groups, and 6 in-depth interviews from key informants. The quantitative data was collected using questionnaires that were completed by 100 primary carers of discharged patients from the selected drug treatment centres. The main findings of the study showed that substance use disorder is a complex disease that requires several factors to be considered to avoid any relapses. The study showed that rehabilitation centres are hugely contributing to efforts of solving substance use in Gauteng and South Africa as a whole. These rehabilitation centres offered various treatment programs to individuals who suffer from substance use disorders. The findings also indicated that the selected therapy programmes at the rehabilitation centres met their objectives. However, some of the programmes were successful in mitigating the relapses of patients recovering from addiction to a lesser extent. The study also found out that the number of individuals who relapse is relatively high, however, the study did not dive into the depth of the causing factors. This may be room for future studies. Findings further indicated that the rehabilitation centres lacked in the application of a holistic approach to addiction treatment, even though there were several treatment programs offered. The issue of exorbitant residential fees in private rehabilitation facilities was also highlighted by the data collected. The research concluded by suggesting several recommendations such as research to improve policy for substance use with a focus on the human rights approach to the drug problem. Recommendations to the Department of Social Development which is responsible for the rehabilitation centres in South Africa. To ensure that all centres that are registered for offering treatment for substance use disorder be mandated to use a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach, diversifying and individualizing treatments for better outcomes. Lastly, recommendations were suggested to the social work practice, to support rehabilitation facilities by providing continuous specialized training to their social workers. Recommendations to social work training and curriculum to include in-depth substance use disorders during education, training, and field placements, for best practice amongst new social work practitioners placed in rehabilitation centres. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
A comparative appraisal of access and quality of sexual and reproductive health services for gays and lesbians in Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) and Pretoria (South Africa)
- Authors: Jasi, Phineas
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Sexual health
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21959 , vital:51854
- Description: This study investigated the extent to which gays and lesbians access quality sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Pretoria and Bulawayo. The study also examines the facilitators and barriers for accessing the same services. Theoretically, the study was grounded in the Health Belief Model (Hochbaum, 1958, modified by Rosenstock, 1974 and Siddiqui, 2016). To answer the research questions, a mixed methods approach was applied involving both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. A total of 30 key informant interviews, eight focus group discussions and 387 questionnaires were administered using purposive, time location and snowball sampling approaches in the two cities. The study found that the most commonly available sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services were contraceptive services, sexually transmitted infections (STI) services and Human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) services. The services were provided at public health facilities, drop-in centres and through outreach activities operated by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The least available services that gays and lesbians required as part of a comprehensive package were access to information, education and communications (IEC) materials and mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS). Several service providers were not adhering to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for provision of comprehensive services for key populations including gays and lesbians. Critical gaps noted included the absence of key populations-only service hours, lack of options for clinicians to attend to them, presence of a stigma and discrimination free environment and provision of comprehensive package of services under one roof. Most of the referral facilities had limited drugs, equipment and supplies for cancer screening and they had no HIV prevention, sex change, in-vitro fertilization, and sterilization services and procedures. The quality of physical facilities and SRH services in both cities did not meet the expectations of gays and lesbians, acting as a barrier to their health seeking behaviour. Stigma and discrimination from healthcare workers was a huge barrier affecting access across all public health facilities. The acts of stigmatisation and discrimination affected the perceptions that gays and lesbians had regarding the quality of the services and compromised access of the same. In view of these health system challenges, the study recommends that there is need for public authorities in both cities to address the bottlenecks and barriers affecting access to SRH services and products such as lubricants, affordable quality condoms, dental dams and latex gloves while reinforcing the facilitating factors promoting access. Healthcare workers need further training on how to provide comprehensive services for gays and lesbians according to the WHO guidelines. Public health authorities in Bulawayo and Pretoria should build upon the identified factors which facilitated the access to SRH services and use of products such as condoms and lubricants. These factors require strengthening of community-based organizations and networks that work directly with gays and lesbians in both Bulawayo and Pretoria. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Jasi, Phineas
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Sexual health
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21959 , vital:51854
- Description: This study investigated the extent to which gays and lesbians access quality sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Pretoria and Bulawayo. The study also examines the facilitators and barriers for accessing the same services. Theoretically, the study was grounded in the Health Belief Model (Hochbaum, 1958, modified by Rosenstock, 1974 and Siddiqui, 2016). To answer the research questions, a mixed methods approach was applied involving both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. A total of 30 key informant interviews, eight focus group discussions and 387 questionnaires were administered using purposive, time location and snowball sampling approaches in the two cities. The study found that the most commonly available sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services were contraceptive services, sexually transmitted infections (STI) services and Human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) services. The services were provided at public health facilities, drop-in centres and through outreach activities operated by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The least available services that gays and lesbians required as part of a comprehensive package were access to information, education and communications (IEC) materials and mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS). Several service providers were not adhering to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for provision of comprehensive services for key populations including gays and lesbians. Critical gaps noted included the absence of key populations-only service hours, lack of options for clinicians to attend to them, presence of a stigma and discrimination free environment and provision of comprehensive package of services under one roof. Most of the referral facilities had limited drugs, equipment and supplies for cancer screening and they had no HIV prevention, sex change, in-vitro fertilization, and sterilization services and procedures. The quality of physical facilities and SRH services in both cities did not meet the expectations of gays and lesbians, acting as a barrier to their health seeking behaviour. Stigma and discrimination from healthcare workers was a huge barrier affecting access across all public health facilities. The acts of stigmatisation and discrimination affected the perceptions that gays and lesbians had regarding the quality of the services and compromised access of the same. In view of these health system challenges, the study recommends that there is need for public authorities in both cities to address the bottlenecks and barriers affecting access to SRH services and products such as lubricants, affordable quality condoms, dental dams and latex gloves while reinforcing the facilitating factors promoting access. Healthcare workers need further training on how to provide comprehensive services for gays and lesbians according to the WHO guidelines. Public health authorities in Bulawayo and Pretoria should build upon the identified factors which facilitated the access to SRH services and use of products such as condoms and lubricants. These factors require strengthening of community-based organizations and networks that work directly with gays and lesbians in both Bulawayo and Pretoria. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
Mass media use and knowledge gap amongst Walter Sisulu University, public relations management students: a content analysis study.
- Authors: Mva, Coceka
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Education, Rural , Mass media--Social aspects , Mass media in education
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21036 , vital:46916
- Description: Walter Sisulu University recruits students from the deep rural areas as well as students from urban areas all over the Eastern Cape Province. Students coming from rural areas are completely different from students coming from urban areas. The difference is caused by the different quality of infrastructure each area is exposed to. Urban students are exposed to high quality education whereas rural students have very poor infrastructure that they can hardly use to better their education. Urban students are exposed to all kinds of mass media and they are taught how to use and manipulate them. For rural students the exposure to mass media is too rare to the point where only the minority is able to use them. Therefore, this research was done to find out if there are any differences in understanding social and current events between urban and rural students studying public relations management at Walter Sisulu University. The study therefore sought to find out if this came as a result of their differentiated exposure to the mass media. Literature collected shows that rural students do not benefit as much as urban students from the knowledge and information communicated by the mass media. This is because rural areas lack electricity for television and radio usage, they lack quality roads for newspapers to be delivered to rural areas. However, questionnaires and interviews show that when at university, rural students struggle to cope in their first year of studies but their performance becomes better in their second and final year of study. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Mva, Coceka
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Education, Rural , Mass media--Social aspects , Mass media in education
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21036 , vital:46916
- Description: Walter Sisulu University recruits students from the deep rural areas as well as students from urban areas all over the Eastern Cape Province. Students coming from rural areas are completely different from students coming from urban areas. The difference is caused by the different quality of infrastructure each area is exposed to. Urban students are exposed to high quality education whereas rural students have very poor infrastructure that they can hardly use to better their education. Urban students are exposed to all kinds of mass media and they are taught how to use and manipulate them. For rural students the exposure to mass media is too rare to the point where only the minority is able to use them. Therefore, this research was done to find out if there are any differences in understanding social and current events between urban and rural students studying public relations management at Walter Sisulu University. The study therefore sought to find out if this came as a result of their differentiated exposure to the mass media. Literature collected shows that rural students do not benefit as much as urban students from the knowledge and information communicated by the mass media. This is because rural areas lack electricity for television and radio usage, they lack quality roads for newspapers to be delivered to rural areas. However, questionnaires and interviews show that when at university, rural students struggle to cope in their first year of studies but their performance becomes better in their second and final year of study. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
The experiences of youth foster care leavers in Makanda town, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Authors: Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Foster children -- Services for , Foster home care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22368 , vital:52031
- Description: This study sought to explore the experiences of foster care youth who had exited the system within a period of three years in Makhanda Town, Eastern Cape. The coping mechanisms employed by foster care youth after exiting the system, and the policies, legislations and support services available were explored. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Non-probability sampling was employed to recruit 23 foster care youth who had exited the system within three years in Makhanda Town. In addition, 6 professionals dealing with statutory cases, three (3) foster parents and one (1) key informant were selected. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face semistructured individual interviews with foster care youth who had exited the system. The focus group discussion was held with professionals dealing with statutory cases and the ward councillor. The researcher analysed the data thematically. The study findings revealed that long term and comprehensive planning was important so as to provide a consistent and all round support to the fostered youth during the pre and post foster care phases. It was established that for most foster care children, the lack of a complete plan affects their transition from their biological home through the foster care system. Consequently, they come out more vulnerable than when there were initially placed in foster care. The study highlighted the serious need for training and job placement for the youths, a structure that is currently non-existent. The study recommended that the Department of Social Development (DSD) should make it compulsory for statutory social workers within the foster care domain to come up with individualized and personalized plans that outline the needs and deliverables for each child placed in the foster care system. Importantly, DSD must create a framework that is endorsed and accepted by all stakeholders so as to achieve the best interest of the child in all situations. Furthermore, the study recommends that DSD should employ more social workers to address the current human resources shortages in foster care units. Lastly, the study recommends restructuring of placement system to be less paper-work for effective and efficient, integrity, and quality of the service provision. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
- Authors: Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Foster children -- Services for , Foster home care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22368 , vital:52031
- Description: This study sought to explore the experiences of foster care youth who had exited the system within a period of three years in Makhanda Town, Eastern Cape. The coping mechanisms employed by foster care youth after exiting the system, and the policies, legislations and support services available were explored. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Non-probability sampling was employed to recruit 23 foster care youth who had exited the system within three years in Makhanda Town. In addition, 6 professionals dealing with statutory cases, three (3) foster parents and one (1) key informant were selected. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face semistructured individual interviews with foster care youth who had exited the system. The focus group discussion was held with professionals dealing with statutory cases and the ward councillor. The researcher analysed the data thematically. The study findings revealed that long term and comprehensive planning was important so as to provide a consistent and all round support to the fostered youth during the pre and post foster care phases. It was established that for most foster care children, the lack of a complete plan affects their transition from their biological home through the foster care system. Consequently, they come out more vulnerable than when there were initially placed in foster care. The study highlighted the serious need for training and job placement for the youths, a structure that is currently non-existent. The study recommended that the Department of Social Development (DSD) should make it compulsory for statutory social workers within the foster care domain to come up with individualized and personalized plans that outline the needs and deliverables for each child placed in the foster care system. Importantly, DSD must create a framework that is endorsed and accepted by all stakeholders so as to achieve the best interest of the child in all situations. Furthermore, the study recommends that DSD should employ more social workers to address the current human resources shortages in foster care units. Lastly, the study recommends restructuring of placement system to be less paper-work for effective and efficient, integrity, and quality of the service provision. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-11
Impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry : a comparative content analysis of four Nigerian Newspapers
- Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Authors: Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Newspapers -- Nigeria , Freedom of the press , Mass media -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21805 , vital:51787
- Description: A free press is pivotal to eradication of corruption in the society as the press remains the most powerful channel of communication that cut across all publics. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the oil and gas industry through a content analysis of four Nigerian newspapers (The Punch, Vanguard, Guardian and Nigerian Tribune). The study adopted a mixed research method involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected and analysed through content analysis of the selected newspapers while the qualitative data collected through interview of the respective newspaper correspondents were analysed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that 534 stories were published on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas sector by all the newspapers within the study period (July 2018-June 2019), with the Punch having the highest magnitude of stories (n = 196, 36.70percent) while Nigerian Tribune had the highest number of stories reported on its front and back pages (n = 143, 92.25percent). However, Guardian had the highest number of full-paged stories (n = 15, 20percent) whereas the Punch and Nigerian Tribune adopted the widest range of publication formats with news being the most dominant format employed by all the dailies (n = 462, 86.52percent). Although, all the newspapers employed more episodic frame (n = 432, 80.89percent) than thematic frame (n = 93,17.41percent), framing analysis revealed oil theft, vandalism, alleged-fraud, environmental consequences and economic consequences as the major frames used in the coverage of stories on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Thematic analysis showed that the newspaper correspondents did not have access to adequate information on corruption in the sector while journalists in the country are still being subjected to intimidation, arrest and imprisonment. These findings suggest that the selected newspapers gave prominence to reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector in country, which implies that the newspapers are fulfilling their agenda-setting roles and social responsibility in the society. Nevertheless, the level of press freedom in Nigeria has partly affected the reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector of the country as this has restricted the use of investigative reporting occasioned by the lack of access to classified information on corruption and envisaged harm by potential sources and journalists. Nevertheless, this study proposes an anticorruption-media model, which focuses on the significance of the media as an anticorruption agent in a developing country. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Ayodeji-Falade, Monisola Bolajoko
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Newspapers -- Nigeria , Freedom of the press , Mass media -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21805 , vital:51787
- Description: A free press is pivotal to eradication of corruption in the society as the press remains the most powerful channel of communication that cut across all publics. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the impact of press freedom on reportage of corruption in the oil and gas industry through a content analysis of four Nigerian newspapers (The Punch, Vanguard, Guardian and Nigerian Tribune). The study adopted a mixed research method involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected and analysed through content analysis of the selected newspapers while the qualitative data collected through interview of the respective newspaper correspondents were analysed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that 534 stories were published on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas sector by all the newspapers within the study period (July 2018-June 2019), with the Punch having the highest magnitude of stories (n = 196, 36.70percent) while Nigerian Tribune had the highest number of stories reported on its front and back pages (n = 143, 92.25percent). However, Guardian had the highest number of full-paged stories (n = 15, 20percent) whereas the Punch and Nigerian Tribune adopted the widest range of publication formats with news being the most dominant format employed by all the dailies (n = 462, 86.52percent). Although, all the newspapers employed more episodic frame (n = 432, 80.89percent) than thematic frame (n = 93,17.41percent), framing analysis revealed oil theft, vandalism, alleged-fraud, environmental consequences and economic consequences as the major frames used in the coverage of stories on corruption in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Thematic analysis showed that the newspaper correspondents did not have access to adequate information on corruption in the sector while journalists in the country are still being subjected to intimidation, arrest and imprisonment. These findings suggest that the selected newspapers gave prominence to reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector in country, which implies that the newspapers are fulfilling their agenda-setting roles and social responsibility in the society. Nevertheless, the level of press freedom in Nigeria has partly affected the reportage of corruption in the oil and gas sector of the country as this has restricted the use of investigative reporting occasioned by the lack of access to classified information on corruption and envisaged harm by potential sources and journalists. Nevertheless, this study proposes an anticorruption-media model, which focuses on the significance of the media as an anticorruption agent in a developing country. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Water Struggles and Rural People’s Experiences of Waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Twalo, Lindani
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Water security , Right to water
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21201 , vital:47394
- Description: This study examined water struggles and rural people’s experiences of waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Primarily, it investigated how such struggles connect to people’s experiences of waiting for water services. In essence, the study demonstrates how experiences of waiting are profoundly shaped by subjective meanings that the rural people attach to water at a local level. Thus, the study connects rural water politics to contested meanings over natural resources in South Africa’s communal areas. The empirical analysis in this study goes beyond the largely urban focus in the focus in the politics of waiting – mainly in the informal settlements, slums and other urban peripheries. The study presents some of the less known struggles of rural dwellers, particularly their experiences of waiting for water service provision from the state. South Africa’s Constitution promotes the right to clean water. Despite all the progress made by the democratic government, it is still evident that people in deep rural areas of South Africa are in a very precarious situation when it comes to accessing clean water. The study utilised Auyero (2011) concept of the politics of waiting to examine the poor people’s experiences of waiting for water. The study adopted a case study of Lower Didimana village. The researcher conducted a range of qualitative research techniques – the key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations and semi-structured interviews. The study found that rural residents of South Africa continue to wait for long periods for water service provision in the current democratic era. Moreover, they are still faced with severe challenges of accessing water; as a result, they are left with no better option but to use traditional ways of retrieving water. It also found that there are strong cultural and spiritual claims that rural dwellers attach to water. To them water is not just only a physiological need which could be addressed through efficient state service – the provision of sufficient tap water. Water is deeply connected in human existence. Just like land, water is a cultural as well as spiritual resource. As such, rural experiences of waiting are not limited to state agency and how the poor experience the state, but are also influences by local struggles over meanings of water. Finally, the study reveals the limitation in state policy on water provision, which is locked in a purely engineering use based paradigm, which mainly strives to address (technically) scarcity of drinking water. However, the findings of this study demonstrates that drinking is just one function of water. Although villagers try to mobilise to engage the state while waiting for water service they articulate other claims that connect to diverse water meanings. Such meanings are barely captured in contemporary literature on rural politics of water. As such, although water is increasing becoming scarce in rural South Africa and the state intervention is increasingly demanded, villagers’ experiences of waiting in Lower Didimana remain strongly connected to what water means to locals. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Rural Development) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Twalo, Lindani
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Water security , Right to water
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21201 , vital:47394
- Description: This study examined water struggles and rural people’s experiences of waiting in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Primarily, it investigated how such struggles connect to people’s experiences of waiting for water services. In essence, the study demonstrates how experiences of waiting are profoundly shaped by subjective meanings that the rural people attach to water at a local level. Thus, the study connects rural water politics to contested meanings over natural resources in South Africa’s communal areas. The empirical analysis in this study goes beyond the largely urban focus in the focus in the politics of waiting – mainly in the informal settlements, slums and other urban peripheries. The study presents some of the less known struggles of rural dwellers, particularly their experiences of waiting for water service provision from the state. South Africa’s Constitution promotes the right to clean water. Despite all the progress made by the democratic government, it is still evident that people in deep rural areas of South Africa are in a very precarious situation when it comes to accessing clean water. The study utilised Auyero (2011) concept of the politics of waiting to examine the poor people’s experiences of waiting for water. The study adopted a case study of Lower Didimana village. The researcher conducted a range of qualitative research techniques – the key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations and semi-structured interviews. The study found that rural residents of South Africa continue to wait for long periods for water service provision in the current democratic era. Moreover, they are still faced with severe challenges of accessing water; as a result, they are left with no better option but to use traditional ways of retrieving water. It also found that there are strong cultural and spiritual claims that rural dwellers attach to water. To them water is not just only a physiological need which could be addressed through efficient state service – the provision of sufficient tap water. Water is deeply connected in human existence. Just like land, water is a cultural as well as spiritual resource. As such, rural experiences of waiting are not limited to state agency and how the poor experience the state, but are also influences by local struggles over meanings of water. Finally, the study reveals the limitation in state policy on water provision, which is locked in a purely engineering use based paradigm, which mainly strives to address (technically) scarcity of drinking water. However, the findings of this study demonstrates that drinking is just one function of water. Although villagers try to mobilise to engage the state while waiting for water service they articulate other claims that connect to diverse water meanings. Such meanings are barely captured in contemporary literature on rural politics of water. As such, although water is increasing becoming scarce in rural South Africa and the state intervention is increasingly demanded, villagers’ experiences of waiting in Lower Didimana remain strongly connected to what water means to locals. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Rural Development) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
Access to justice for female victims of crime: a study of girls and women with disabilities in Mashonaland Central Province of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Shumba, Nyaradzo Dorcas
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Criminal justice, Administration of -- Zimbabwe , Women -- Crimes against , Victims of crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22176 , vital:51994
- Description: This thesis utilized a thematic content analysis, looked at how significant barriers affect Mashonaland Central girls and women living with disabilities as victims of crime from accessing justice. Zimbabwe is an optimal case to apply this study, due to its contradictory legislation and evidence of high rate of human rights violations. Mashonaland Central Province is an ideal case study due to the extant records that indicate that it has the highest incidences of violence against women. This study is therefore based in a Victimological epoch with the aim to fill the research gap in acknowledging the process of accessing justice as an important step for protecting and promoting human right. By analyzing interviews conducted with 3 different women aged 18-65 and 3 girls living with disability who were under the age of 18, through the theoretical framework of basic human rights theory and victim dynamics, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge, with suggestions of how these barriers which are inclusive of societal and cultural structures tend to affect the respondents’ everyday lives and in a most pertinent manner towards their right to access justice. This thesis is also governed by the perspectives of key actors in the judicial process including but not limited to the Victim Friendly Unit. The theoretical framework is also operationalized into themes and criteria, which are then applied to analyze the conducted interviews. The emerging findings illuminate that there is a discrepancy between government policy surrounding girls and women living with disabilities and the practical experiences of the respondents. The respondents experienced a lack of accessibility to basic rights such as health care, the law, and to sex education – which are all rights ensured by government policy. Identified consequences included: discouragement in seeking justice due to fears of cultural and social stigma, discouragement in reporting crimes, and receiving adequate support, as well as information from secondhand sources. This study therefore concludes lack of access to justice is a violation of security of person, human dignity and rights to health and life to women and girls living with disability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Shumba, Nyaradzo Dorcas
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Criminal justice, Administration of -- Zimbabwe , Women -- Crimes against , Victims of crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22176 , vital:51994
- Description: This thesis utilized a thematic content analysis, looked at how significant barriers affect Mashonaland Central girls and women living with disabilities as victims of crime from accessing justice. Zimbabwe is an optimal case to apply this study, due to its contradictory legislation and evidence of high rate of human rights violations. Mashonaland Central Province is an ideal case study due to the extant records that indicate that it has the highest incidences of violence against women. This study is therefore based in a Victimological epoch with the aim to fill the research gap in acknowledging the process of accessing justice as an important step for protecting and promoting human right. By analyzing interviews conducted with 3 different women aged 18-65 and 3 girls living with disability who were under the age of 18, through the theoretical framework of basic human rights theory and victim dynamics, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge, with suggestions of how these barriers which are inclusive of societal and cultural structures tend to affect the respondents’ everyday lives and in a most pertinent manner towards their right to access justice. This thesis is also governed by the perspectives of key actors in the judicial process including but not limited to the Victim Friendly Unit. The theoretical framework is also operationalized into themes and criteria, which are then applied to analyze the conducted interviews. The emerging findings illuminate that there is a discrepancy between government policy surrounding girls and women living with disabilities and the practical experiences of the respondents. The respondents experienced a lack of accessibility to basic rights such as health care, the law, and to sex education – which are all rights ensured by government policy. Identified consequences included: discouragement in seeking justice due to fears of cultural and social stigma, discouragement in reporting crimes, and receiving adequate support, as well as information from secondhand sources. This study therefore concludes lack of access to justice is a violation of security of person, human dignity and rights to health and life to women and girls living with disability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
An evaluation of communication strategies for the eradication of female genital mutilation (FGM): a case study of West Pokot, Kenya
- Authors: Onyango, Quinter
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Female circumcision , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21103 , vital:46986
- Description: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still rampant in many Kenya communities, especially the Maa and the Pokot speaking people, despite communication strategies and programmes instituted to eradicate the cultural practice. Female Genital Mutilation is a procedure that intentionally alters or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The gains of eliminating FGM resulted from robust communication strategies introduced by the United Nations and the Kenyan government to educate and raise consciousness regarding the dangers of FGM practice. However, despite widespread communication efforts worldwide, at least thirty-one countries are still practising FGM. West Pokot County in Kenya has an 86% rate as a county that still practices FGM. The statistics are an indication that communication alone cannot achieve the desired goal as long as the communities feel that these organizations and their communication expects are looking down upon their culture, beliefs and practices. As far as FGM is concerned, attitude change is vital in communities to understand the dangers. Members of communities are often left behind or not consulted when developing strategies for eradicating FGM. Emphasis should be drawn on the involvement and ownership of such development programmes. Lack of participation from the communities seems to be the key reason for the failure of the campaigns to encourage people into deserting FGM practices. Therefore, this study evaluated communication strategies and explanations of why there is still a high level of FGM practice regardless of the prevalent consciousness of the consequences of its continued practice in West Pokot County, Kenya. This study adopts a mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) research approach. Convenience and purposive non-probability sampling techniques were subsequently used to select samples for this study. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were held with the different community members in West Pokot County. There were five focus groups with nine participants in each focus group, making 45 participants for the focus group discussions. The collected data were interpreted and analysed thematically. This research showed a remarkable disparity between the community members ranging from their opinion and perceptions on the best and effective modes of communication to eradicate female genital mutilation and an alternative rite of passage. Another critical finding of this study indicated that beads of bondage linked to the community sanctioned rite of passage are another traditional practice that is endangering the lives of the girl child in Lokornoi, West Pokot County. Hence, this study proposed using mass media (newspapers, radio, television) using their vernacular language, which they understand and other interpersonal communication strategies (elders, chiefs and religious leaders) to eradicate FGM. Also, communication groups can involve communities to encourage a sense of ownership, which was the biggest reason for the communities to resist leaving FGM practice. This research suggests a need to develop alternative ways of communicating the message and that interpersonal channels are necessary to eradicate FGM in Kenya. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Onyango, Quinter
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Female circumcision , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21103 , vital:46986
- Description: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still rampant in many Kenya communities, especially the Maa and the Pokot speaking people, despite communication strategies and programmes instituted to eradicate the cultural practice. Female Genital Mutilation is a procedure that intentionally alters or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The gains of eliminating FGM resulted from robust communication strategies introduced by the United Nations and the Kenyan government to educate and raise consciousness regarding the dangers of FGM practice. However, despite widespread communication efforts worldwide, at least thirty-one countries are still practising FGM. West Pokot County in Kenya has an 86% rate as a county that still practices FGM. The statistics are an indication that communication alone cannot achieve the desired goal as long as the communities feel that these organizations and their communication expects are looking down upon their culture, beliefs and practices. As far as FGM is concerned, attitude change is vital in communities to understand the dangers. Members of communities are often left behind or not consulted when developing strategies for eradicating FGM. Emphasis should be drawn on the involvement and ownership of such development programmes. Lack of participation from the communities seems to be the key reason for the failure of the campaigns to encourage people into deserting FGM practices. Therefore, this study evaluated communication strategies and explanations of why there is still a high level of FGM practice regardless of the prevalent consciousness of the consequences of its continued practice in West Pokot County, Kenya. This study adopts a mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) research approach. Convenience and purposive non-probability sampling techniques were subsequently used to select samples for this study. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were held with the different community members in West Pokot County. There were five focus groups with nine participants in each focus group, making 45 participants for the focus group discussions. The collected data were interpreted and analysed thematically. This research showed a remarkable disparity between the community members ranging from their opinion and perceptions on the best and effective modes of communication to eradicate female genital mutilation and an alternative rite of passage. Another critical finding of this study indicated that beads of bondage linked to the community sanctioned rite of passage are another traditional practice that is endangering the lives of the girl child in Lokornoi, West Pokot County. Hence, this study proposed using mass media (newspapers, radio, television) using their vernacular language, which they understand and other interpersonal communication strategies (elders, chiefs and religious leaders) to eradicate FGM. Also, communication groups can involve communities to encourage a sense of ownership, which was the biggest reason for the communities to resist leaving FGM practice. This research suggests a need to develop alternative ways of communicating the message and that interpersonal channels are necessary to eradicate FGM in Kenya. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
An investigation on records management of student allocation for accommodation in selected universities of South Africa
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Mboya, Ncumisa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23710 , vital:58584
- Description: The study aimed at investigating the management of students’ residential records at University of Fort Hare (UFH) and Rhodes University (RU). The objectives of the study were to: Investigate the residential policies and records management policies of the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Assess the records management practices at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Determine how records management affects the process of allocating accommodation to students at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University; Identify areas of possible improvement of records management and student satisfaction concerning accommodation and allocation in both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was used to select the participants of the study. Out of the targeted sample size of 39, the researcher administered questionnaires to 29 respondents and only 28 questionnaires were returned while 10 participants were interviewed. Therefore, a total of 38 staff members were included in the study. The qualitative data collected was analysed using thematic analysis while quantitative data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The findings of the study showed that UFH and Rhodes University mostly make use of capturing process as one of the essential processes of records keeping used to allocate accommodation to students in their institutions. More importantly, the findings also revealed that there are different challenges faced by both universities. One of the challenges hindering student residence records at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) includes a lack of records xv management knowledge and incompetence. This might be because there are no records management personnel to take responsibility for student records. On the other hand, Rhodes University is faced with the unavailability of information sources, which might be attributed to a lack of information technology. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Conflict-induced displacement: a study of risk and support for the older refugees in South Africa
- Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Authors: Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Migration, Internal , Displacement (Psychology) , Refugees -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22231 , vital:52001
- Description: With the exponential rise in conflict scenarios globally, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in foreign countries continues to grow. Although there has been several international efforts and conventions aimed at alleviating the global refugee crisis, the international community has not found a sustainable answer to this knotty problem. In Africa, with some of the worst conflict situations, the scourge of social displacement resulting in migrations have caused different levels of risks and vulnerability for the refugees, as well as capacity constraints for the host communities, governments of host countries and non-governmental bodies working with refugees. In South Africa, with one of the highest numbers of refugees in Africa, especially those coming from African countries, contention for socio-economic space and cultural differences occasionally result in violence between refugees and local people. For the older refugees, the level of risk exposure and hardship have generated interests for both scholars and officials. This thesis explores the risks and support systems for older refugees in South Africa, with specific focus on the Eastern Cape province. Various stakeholders (such as government, NGOs, host communities and the older refugees) in refugee management in South Africa have argued differently on ‘how best’ to manage older refugees in the country. Using qualitative data gathered from refugee communities in the Eastern Cape province and documentary analysis, the study found that the experiences of older refugees in the Eastern Cape province are nuanced. The dominant narrative on the experiences of older refugees indicate peaceful coexistence and resilient organic community support systems, with minor conflicts – often associated with contestations for scarce economic opportunities. Although the study focuses on one province of South Africa, this finding challenges the often-overgeneralised perception of South Africa as ‘xenophobic’. It unpacks the hidden resilient social systems and networks of relationships that bind local populations and the refugees, especially the older ones. In the search for national, regional and global answers on the best way to manage refugee crisis, this study provides insights into community-level structures and dynamics that would benefit policymaking at the national and international levels , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Yusuf, Mohammed Sanusi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-0186
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Migration, Internal , Displacement (Psychology) , Refugees -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22231 , vital:52001
- Description: With the exponential rise in conflict scenarios globally, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in foreign countries continues to grow. Although there has been several international efforts and conventions aimed at alleviating the global refugee crisis, the international community has not found a sustainable answer to this knotty problem. In Africa, with some of the worst conflict situations, the scourge of social displacement resulting in migrations have caused different levels of risks and vulnerability for the refugees, as well as capacity constraints for the host communities, governments of host countries and non-governmental bodies working with refugees. In South Africa, with one of the highest numbers of refugees in Africa, especially those coming from African countries, contention for socio-economic space and cultural differences occasionally result in violence between refugees and local people. For the older refugees, the level of risk exposure and hardship have generated interests for both scholars and officials. This thesis explores the risks and support systems for older refugees in South Africa, with specific focus on the Eastern Cape province. Various stakeholders (such as government, NGOs, host communities and the older refugees) in refugee management in South Africa have argued differently on ‘how best’ to manage older refugees in the country. Using qualitative data gathered from refugee communities in the Eastern Cape province and documentary analysis, the study found that the experiences of older refugees in the Eastern Cape province are nuanced. The dominant narrative on the experiences of older refugees indicate peaceful coexistence and resilient organic community support systems, with minor conflicts – often associated with contestations for scarce economic opportunities. Although the study focuses on one province of South Africa, this finding challenges the often-overgeneralised perception of South Africa as ‘xenophobic’. It unpacks the hidden resilient social systems and networks of relationships that bind local populations and the refugees, especially the older ones. In the search for national, regional and global answers on the best way to manage refugee crisis, this study provides insights into community-level structures and dynamics that would benefit policymaking at the national and international levels , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Experiences of unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape province
- Nguma, Aphiwe https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9421-1279
- Authors: Nguma, Aphiwe https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9421-1279
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Unmarried fathers , Fatherhood responsibility movement
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22412 , vital:52052
- Description: This study aimed to explore the experiences of unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province. This study also endeavoured to answer the following research questions: (i). what are the challenges encountered by unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province? (ii). what are government official's perceptions on experiences of unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape? (iii) What are the implications of denial of access of unmarried fathers to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province? This study adopted a qualitative approach within a phenomenological case study research design. A sample of forty participants comprising twenty unmarried biological fathers, seven statutory social workers, three presiding officers of children's court and ten cultural custodians was interviewed. The study revealed the following challenges: payment of pregnancy damages and bride price, unemployment, conflict with the maternal family, poverty, psycho-emotional breakdown, cultural responsibilities, terminated intimate partner relationship with the mother of the child, financial constraints, and lack of emotional and moral intelligence. The study recommends the development of a new 'family policy' to ensure integration of customary cultural practices and the legislative frameworks to provide a detailed parental-document to assist the new generation of parents in maintaining good parenting relations. Further, the study recommends the establishment of champions against absent and uninvolved fathers, where young men will explore fatherhood roles and develop educational and preventative strategies. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Nguma, Aphiwe https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9421-1279
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Unmarried fathers , Fatherhood responsibility movement
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22412 , vital:52052
- Description: This study aimed to explore the experiences of unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province. This study also endeavoured to answer the following research questions: (i). what are the challenges encountered by unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province? (ii). what are government official's perceptions on experiences of unmarried fathers who are denied access to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape? (iii) What are the implications of denial of access of unmarried fathers to their biological children among amaXhosa communities in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape Province? This study adopted a qualitative approach within a phenomenological case study research design. A sample of forty participants comprising twenty unmarried biological fathers, seven statutory social workers, three presiding officers of children's court and ten cultural custodians was interviewed. The study revealed the following challenges: payment of pregnancy damages and bride price, unemployment, conflict with the maternal family, poverty, psycho-emotional breakdown, cultural responsibilities, terminated intimate partner relationship with the mother of the child, financial constraints, and lack of emotional and moral intelligence. The study recommends the development of a new 'family policy' to ensure integration of customary cultural practices and the legislative frameworks to provide a detailed parental-document to assist the new generation of parents in maintaining good parenting relations. Further, the study recommends the establishment of champions against absent and uninvolved fathers, where young men will explore fatherhood roles and develop educational and preventative strategies. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Experiences of Xhosa elderly persons in using public transport and how it effects their quality of life: a case study of Mdantsane township.
- Authors: Sinkintana, Xolisile
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Transportation--Social aspects , Older people--Transportation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21256 , vital:47437
- Description: This research study was motivated by the fact that little is known about the topic and that older persons living in Mdantsane Township are heavily reliant on public transport such as taxis, trains, mini-taxis and buses which are, arguably, not suitable for transporting older persons. Through this research project, the researcher hoped to provide information which may contribute to better understanding of this phenomena, identify barriers in the transport system and get a better understanding thereof. This study utilized a qualitative research approach with an exploratory research design. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 30 elderly persons living in Mdantsane Township, and thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Three themes and sub-themes were generated and later linked to the research questions namely: What are the experiences faced by older persons in using public transport? How do these experiences and challenges affect the quality of life of older persons using public transport? What do older persons view as potential barriers in using public transport? The findings highlighted that elderly people living in Mdantsane Township rely on public transport for participation in social and economic activities of the community as well as access to essential services. Consequently, lack of sufficient income among older persons affect their quality of life in relation to using public transport in that they cannot access all the services they need. They also indicated that there are several barriers for older persons against using public transport which include, concerns about personal safety, safety of items, public transport running late, behaviour of younger passengers and taxi conductors and lack of cleanliness among some drivers, to name a few. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Sinkintana, Xolisile
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Transportation--Social aspects , Older people--Transportation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21256 , vital:47437
- Description: This research study was motivated by the fact that little is known about the topic and that older persons living in Mdantsane Township are heavily reliant on public transport such as taxis, trains, mini-taxis and buses which are, arguably, not suitable for transporting older persons. Through this research project, the researcher hoped to provide information which may contribute to better understanding of this phenomena, identify barriers in the transport system and get a better understanding thereof. This study utilized a qualitative research approach with an exploratory research design. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 30 elderly persons living in Mdantsane Township, and thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Three themes and sub-themes were generated and later linked to the research questions namely: What are the experiences faced by older persons in using public transport? How do these experiences and challenges affect the quality of life of older persons using public transport? What do older persons view as potential barriers in using public transport? The findings highlighted that elderly people living in Mdantsane Township rely on public transport for participation in social and economic activities of the community as well as access to essential services. Consequently, lack of sufficient income among older persons affect their quality of life in relation to using public transport in that they cannot access all the services they need. They also indicated that there are several barriers for older persons against using public transport which include, concerns about personal safety, safety of items, public transport running late, behaviour of younger passengers and taxi conductors and lack of cleanliness among some drivers, to name a few. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
The escalation of gender war within post-colonial South African society: an interrogation of beauty’s gift by Sindiwe Magona, happiness is a four-letter word by Cynthia Jele and black widow society by Angela Makholwa
- Authors: Goremusandu, Tania
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Women and literature -- Africa , Women in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21927 , vital:51843
- Description: The critical analysis of gender war in the African context is not a new venture but it is rather a significant discussion to the development of gender and feminist theories. The primary focus of this study is to investigate the limitations to empowerment that African women face at the hands of a post-colonial patriarchal society like South Africa, exacerbated by the oppression and subjugation employed by patriarchal and cultural norms. Thus, the research provides a comparative analysis of three contemporary novels by award winning South African women writers in African literature: Sindiwe Magona, Cynthia Jele and Angela Makholwa. These three dedicated women writers examine the different ways in which African patriarchy and culture oppress professional, educated women. Their work portray gender and / or female oppression and the stereotypes experienced by African women in the context of post-colonial, heavily patriarchal South African society. Therefore, this study interrogates the experience of South African women, as explored in the texts, revealing the literary expressions of gender oppression as well as the possibilities of empowerment. In addition, the texts are analysed through the lens of the Feminist literary criticism theory, Gender studies and African feminism. Through the examination offered by these theories, the study focuses on the experiences of South African women, as expressed by the female characters in the selected texts, through a critical analysis of female oppression and resistance and on the idea that gender is constructed socially and culturally in the African context. As this project reveals, the problem arising within post-colonial South African society is that women are still oppressed and are seen as passive and submissive. As a result, patriarchal perspectives combined with women’s economic dependence on men, make reaching self-actualization a challenging and even terrifying experience, and is often impossible for most women to achieve. Thus, there is a need to understand the experiences of these women so that effective and culturally sensitive interventions can be implemented. The emergence of these renowned female South African writers together with the emancipation of African countries from colonial supremacy has opened a space for women to compensate for and correct the stereotyped female images in African literature and in post-colonial societies. Most contemporary African writers such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tsitsi Dangarembga, Neshani Andreas, Sindiwe Magona, Cynthia Jele and Angela Makholwa have shown that women are seeking empowerment and liberation. Therefore, this study seeks to highlight such experiences through its critical interrogation of the writings of selected South African women writers and the exploration of their gender-based themes in order to inform and or inspire women empowerment. It is intended to broaden and encourage further academic discussion in the fields of Feminism literary criticism, Gender studies and African feminism as well as women’s literature within the African context. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Goremusandu, Tania
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Women and literature -- Africa , Women in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21927 , vital:51843
- Description: The critical analysis of gender war in the African context is not a new venture but it is rather a significant discussion to the development of gender and feminist theories. The primary focus of this study is to investigate the limitations to empowerment that African women face at the hands of a post-colonial patriarchal society like South Africa, exacerbated by the oppression and subjugation employed by patriarchal and cultural norms. Thus, the research provides a comparative analysis of three contemporary novels by award winning South African women writers in African literature: Sindiwe Magona, Cynthia Jele and Angela Makholwa. These three dedicated women writers examine the different ways in which African patriarchy and culture oppress professional, educated women. Their work portray gender and / or female oppression and the stereotypes experienced by African women in the context of post-colonial, heavily patriarchal South African society. Therefore, this study interrogates the experience of South African women, as explored in the texts, revealing the literary expressions of gender oppression as well as the possibilities of empowerment. In addition, the texts are analysed through the lens of the Feminist literary criticism theory, Gender studies and African feminism. Through the examination offered by these theories, the study focuses on the experiences of South African women, as expressed by the female characters in the selected texts, through a critical analysis of female oppression and resistance and on the idea that gender is constructed socially and culturally in the African context. As this project reveals, the problem arising within post-colonial South African society is that women are still oppressed and are seen as passive and submissive. As a result, patriarchal perspectives combined with women’s economic dependence on men, make reaching self-actualization a challenging and even terrifying experience, and is often impossible for most women to achieve. Thus, there is a need to understand the experiences of these women so that effective and culturally sensitive interventions can be implemented. The emergence of these renowned female South African writers together with the emancipation of African countries from colonial supremacy has opened a space for women to compensate for and correct the stereotyped female images in African literature and in post-colonial societies. Most contemporary African writers such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tsitsi Dangarembga, Neshani Andreas, Sindiwe Magona, Cynthia Jele and Angela Makholwa have shown that women are seeking empowerment and liberation. Therefore, this study seeks to highlight such experiences through its critical interrogation of the writings of selected South African women writers and the exploration of their gender-based themes in order to inform and or inspire women empowerment. It is intended to broaden and encourage further academic discussion in the fields of Feminism literary criticism, Gender studies and African feminism as well as women’s literature within the African context. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Psychosocial experiences of caregivers of mentally challenged children in Alice, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mmangaliso, Azola
- Date: 2021-08
- Subjects: Caregivers , Children with disabilities--Psychology , Children with mental disabilities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21025 , vital:46904
- Description: There is dearth of information in South Africa about the psychosocial challenges experienced by caregivers of mentally challenged children. This study addresses psychosocial experiences of caregivers, such as, scorning, isolation and anxiety, which affect their well-being in adverse ways, and that continues to be overlooked by professionals dealing with mental health. This study sought to explore psychosocial experiences of caregivers of mentally challenged children in Alice in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to uncover the psychosocial wellbeing of caregivers of mentally challenged children. Secondly, it set out to highlight the coping mechanisms employed by caregivers of mentally challenged children to deal with their psychosocial experiences. Lastly, the study sought to examine policies, legislation and support services in place for psychosocial care of caregivers of mentally challenged children. The researcher adopted qualitative research methods. Snowball sampling was employed to recruit 15 caregivers of mentally challenged children in Alice. The age of the caregivers ranged between the ages of 20 and 65. In addition, purposive sampling was adopted to recruit six professionals working with mental health in Alice. All the participants were black Africans. The gender comprised of thirteen females and two males. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face, semi-structured individual interviews, one interview per research participant, with the caregivers of mentally challenged children, and through the use of one focus group discussion with professionals dealing with mental health. The researcher analysed data through thematic content analysis. The study findings indicate that caregivers of mentally challenged children experience the caregiving process negatively, with a lot of burden. It also appears that they do not cope positively with such experiences despite professionally-trained personnel that are obliged by the Social Assistance Act and other government policies to ensure that caregivers receive sufficient psychosocial services. Findings also indicate that there is very little that is done by the relevant professionals in ensuring that they render sufficient professional support services to caregivers, such as needs assessment and therapeutic services. In light of the findings, the study concludes that there is a need for continuous rendering of comprehensive psychosocial support services to the caregivers of mentally challenged children. It is also recommended that social workers empower caregivers for mentally challenged children so that they can function effectively in their communities. Further, the government needs to reinforce existing policies that afford these psychosocial services, such as Integrated National Strategy on Support Services to Children with Disabilities. Meaning, the government should take an oversite role of these policies and monitor whether they get implemented or not, especially at grassroots level. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-08
- Authors: Mmangaliso, Azola
- Date: 2021-08
- Subjects: Caregivers , Children with disabilities--Psychology , Children with mental disabilities
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21025 , vital:46904
- Description: There is dearth of information in South Africa about the psychosocial challenges experienced by caregivers of mentally challenged children. This study addresses psychosocial experiences of caregivers, such as, scorning, isolation and anxiety, which affect their well-being in adverse ways, and that continues to be overlooked by professionals dealing with mental health. This study sought to explore psychosocial experiences of caregivers of mentally challenged children in Alice in the Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to uncover the psychosocial wellbeing of caregivers of mentally challenged children. Secondly, it set out to highlight the coping mechanisms employed by caregivers of mentally challenged children to deal with their psychosocial experiences. Lastly, the study sought to examine policies, legislation and support services in place for psychosocial care of caregivers of mentally challenged children. The researcher adopted qualitative research methods. Snowball sampling was employed to recruit 15 caregivers of mentally challenged children in Alice. The age of the caregivers ranged between the ages of 20 and 65. In addition, purposive sampling was adopted to recruit six professionals working with mental health in Alice. All the participants were black Africans. The gender comprised of thirteen females and two males. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face, semi-structured individual interviews, one interview per research participant, with the caregivers of mentally challenged children, and through the use of one focus group discussion with professionals dealing with mental health. The researcher analysed data through thematic content analysis. The study findings indicate that caregivers of mentally challenged children experience the caregiving process negatively, with a lot of burden. It also appears that they do not cope positively with such experiences despite professionally-trained personnel that are obliged by the Social Assistance Act and other government policies to ensure that caregivers receive sufficient psychosocial services. Findings also indicate that there is very little that is done by the relevant professionals in ensuring that they render sufficient professional support services to caregivers, such as needs assessment and therapeutic services. In light of the findings, the study concludes that there is a need for continuous rendering of comprehensive psychosocial support services to the caregivers of mentally challenged children. It is also recommended that social workers empower caregivers for mentally challenged children so that they can function effectively in their communities. Further, the government needs to reinforce existing policies that afford these psychosocial services, such as Integrated National Strategy on Support Services to Children with Disabilities. Meaning, the government should take an oversite role of these policies and monitor whether they get implemented or not, especially at grassroots level. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-08
Analysis of challenges facing police retirees in the Eastern Cape of South Africa: development of adjustment programme for police retirees to the community
- Authors: Kwayiba, Nthabiseng Justina
- Date: 2021-07
- Subjects: Police -- Retirement , Police -- Pensions , Retirement income
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21977 , vital:51865
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges faced by police retirees of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to contribute towards the establishment of a post-retirement programme that would assist retirees to experience satisfaction in retirement. Upon retirement, police officers leave a job of personified authority and responsibility and become civilians. Throughout their career, police officers work under strenuous shifts, exposure to violence and witness gruesome incidents. In some cases, they facilitate the arrest of their neighbours and even family members in conflict with the law. How they adjust in the communities when they retire has never been investigated in the Eastern Cape, a research gap this study intended to address. A qualitative research methodology and a case study design was adopted. The data were collected from 21 participants. Semi-structured interviews and observations were used as methods of data collection. The interpretivism paradigm informed data analysis process. The life course theory was used as a theoretical framework for this study. The findings of this study revealed that police retirees experience challenges that are different from other public servants and the South African Police Service (SAPS) does not have programmes to prepare employees for retirement. The study established that most of the retirees had not yet adjusted to retirement because of the challenges they faced. Among the unique challenges that they experience are psychological challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) emanating from their daily exposure to gruesome incidents, violence and working under strenuous shifts. The study also revealed that the retirees experienced broken social support system (family), social rejection by their previous employer (SAPS), and the communities they are retiring in. Therefore, as a result of rejection they relocate and start a new life somewhere else, where they suffer loneliness. Neglect by the employer (SAPS) made them feel useless and unappreciated. It was also established that the handing back of police equipment and uniforms makes them feel a sense of loss of power and authority, which makes them feel unsafe. The feeling of insecurity become more intense when the people they arrested threaten revenge on them when they are on retirement. The study recommends commitment from different stakeholders to assist employees in SAPS to experience a smooth and rewarding transition towards retirement. These include a pre-retirement planning programme that will engage employees ten years before retirement and require the employer’s commitment, a transition programme, that will engage retirees during retirement and require commitment from the police medical aid (POLMED) and community policing forum involvement. Finally, the establishment of social support system in the post-retirement programme is required for the extension of employee health and wellness (EHW) services. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-07
- Authors: Kwayiba, Nthabiseng Justina
- Date: 2021-07
- Subjects: Police -- Retirement , Police -- Pensions , Retirement income
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21977 , vital:51865
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges faced by police retirees of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to contribute towards the establishment of a post-retirement programme that would assist retirees to experience satisfaction in retirement. Upon retirement, police officers leave a job of personified authority and responsibility and become civilians. Throughout their career, police officers work under strenuous shifts, exposure to violence and witness gruesome incidents. In some cases, they facilitate the arrest of their neighbours and even family members in conflict with the law. How they adjust in the communities when they retire has never been investigated in the Eastern Cape, a research gap this study intended to address. A qualitative research methodology and a case study design was adopted. The data were collected from 21 participants. Semi-structured interviews and observations were used as methods of data collection. The interpretivism paradigm informed data analysis process. The life course theory was used as a theoretical framework for this study. The findings of this study revealed that police retirees experience challenges that are different from other public servants and the South African Police Service (SAPS) does not have programmes to prepare employees for retirement. The study established that most of the retirees had not yet adjusted to retirement because of the challenges they faced. Among the unique challenges that they experience are psychological challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) emanating from their daily exposure to gruesome incidents, violence and working under strenuous shifts. The study also revealed that the retirees experienced broken social support system (family), social rejection by their previous employer (SAPS), and the communities they are retiring in. Therefore, as a result of rejection they relocate and start a new life somewhere else, where they suffer loneliness. Neglect by the employer (SAPS) made them feel useless and unappreciated. It was also established that the handing back of police equipment and uniforms makes them feel a sense of loss of power and authority, which makes them feel unsafe. The feeling of insecurity become more intense when the people they arrested threaten revenge on them when they are on retirement. The study recommends commitment from different stakeholders to assist employees in SAPS to experience a smooth and rewarding transition towards retirement. These include a pre-retirement planning programme that will engage employees ten years before retirement and require the employer’s commitment, a transition programme, that will engage retirees during retirement and require commitment from the police medical aid (POLMED) and community policing forum involvement. Finally, the establishment of social support system in the post-retirement programme is required for the extension of employee health and wellness (EHW) services. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-07