Factors associated with successful talent development in South African soccer players
- Authors: Mudege, Solomon Mufudzi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa , Ability , Soccer -- Coaching -- South Africa , Professionalism in sports -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10103 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015713
- Description: In recent times, the performances of the South African senior national team (“Bafana Bafana”) have not matched the impressive off-field advancements in South African professional soccer. At the historic 2010 FIFA World CupTM held in South Africa, Bafana Bafana became the first host nation to be eliminated in the first round of the competition. Such disappointments have compelled stakeholders in South African soccer to call for a re-assessment of all structures and programmes which have an impact on the playing abilities of South African players. Of prime importance is the need to obtain a better understanding of talent development in South African soccer. The aim of this research study was to determine the relevance of selected factors associated with successful talent development in South African male professional soccer players competing in the 2008-2009 ABSA PSL season. In order to accomplish the research aims, the literature relating to talent development concepts and models was examined. The literature review identified seven factors which are relevant to talent development in soccer. The empirical study was exploratory, and it utilized a descriptive, non-experimental approach. Data were collected via a 53-item questionnaire, which was designed to evaluate the identified seven factors. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 56 South African professional soccer players who played for clubs participating in the 2008-2009 season of the ABSA Premier Soccer League. The results obtained from the sample were analysed in terms of their descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis was performed. The following six factors were statistically confirmed as being associated with the successful talent development of the sample: Training Environment, Motivation and Ambitions, Personal Development, Family Support, Cultural Factors and Coaching. These six factors accounted for 58 percent of the overall variance. The questionnaire had a reliability of 0.84, as measured by the Cronbach alpha coefficient. The study concludes that talent development in South African soccer is a multifactorial and complex process. Although the sample size was not suitable for discriminant analysis, theories such as the relative age effect and the „10-year rule‟ may be applicable to South African soccer. This study also adds to the limited body of knowledge on South African soccer, by identifying and scientifically analysing those factors which are associated with successful talent development. As success on the international stage becomes a priority in South African soccer, the identified factors serve as a sound scientific basis in the formulation of improved structures and strategies for perfecting the abilities of young soccer players, and increasing the competitiveness of Bafana Bafana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mudege, Solomon Mufudzi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa , Ability , Soccer -- Coaching -- South Africa , Professionalism in sports -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10103 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015713
- Description: In recent times, the performances of the South African senior national team (“Bafana Bafana”) have not matched the impressive off-field advancements in South African professional soccer. At the historic 2010 FIFA World CupTM held in South Africa, Bafana Bafana became the first host nation to be eliminated in the first round of the competition. Such disappointments have compelled stakeholders in South African soccer to call for a re-assessment of all structures and programmes which have an impact on the playing abilities of South African players. Of prime importance is the need to obtain a better understanding of talent development in South African soccer. The aim of this research study was to determine the relevance of selected factors associated with successful talent development in South African male professional soccer players competing in the 2008-2009 ABSA PSL season. In order to accomplish the research aims, the literature relating to talent development concepts and models was examined. The literature review identified seven factors which are relevant to talent development in soccer. The empirical study was exploratory, and it utilized a descriptive, non-experimental approach. Data were collected via a 53-item questionnaire, which was designed to evaluate the identified seven factors. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 56 South African professional soccer players who played for clubs participating in the 2008-2009 season of the ABSA Premier Soccer League. The results obtained from the sample were analysed in terms of their descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis was performed. The following six factors were statistically confirmed as being associated with the successful talent development of the sample: Training Environment, Motivation and Ambitions, Personal Development, Family Support, Cultural Factors and Coaching. These six factors accounted for 58 percent of the overall variance. The questionnaire had a reliability of 0.84, as measured by the Cronbach alpha coefficient. The study concludes that talent development in South African soccer is a multifactorial and complex process. Although the sample size was not suitable for discriminant analysis, theories such as the relative age effect and the „10-year rule‟ may be applicable to South African soccer. This study also adds to the limited body of knowledge on South African soccer, by identifying and scientifically analysing those factors which are associated with successful talent development. As success on the international stage becomes a priority in South African soccer, the identified factors serve as a sound scientific basis in the formulation of improved structures and strategies for perfecting the abilities of young soccer players, and increasing the competitiveness of Bafana Bafana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Awareness, attitudes and referral practices of health care providers to psychological services in Botswana
- Authors: July, Emma
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1166 , Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Description: The provision of psychological services is vital considering the complex nature of psychosocial issues facing people today. Nevertheless, the provision and utilization of psychological services has not been given due recognition in most African countries, including Botswana. Botswana is one of the countries faced by the challenges of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other mental health problems, as well as poverty and unemployment. To date statistics on the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Botswana, published annually by the National AIDS Coordinating Agency (NACA) reflect an increased rate of mental illness and psychosocial problems. Considering the complex nature of issues that impact negatively on people in Botswana, there is a need for awareness and the provision of psychological services in the primary health care system. There is little research on the place of psychology and psychological services in Botswana. The availability of such information is crucial for the planning of effective community-based psychological services. The present study employed a quantitative research method to explore and describe awareness and attitudes towards psychological services and referral practices in relation to psychological problems, of health care providers in Botswana. The participants in the study were chosen, based on a non-probability, purposive sampling method. The sample consisted of ninety-six persons and constituted medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and clinical social workers from governmental and non-governmental institutions from Gaborone and Francistown in Botswana. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviations. Frequency counts and percentages of the participants’ responses were computed. The results of the study revealed an awareness of available psychological services, positive attitudes towards psychology and psychological services and a reasonable percentage of referrals to psychological services. The results also revealed that available psychological services were limited and not easily accessible to patients. There was also an indication of a shortage of trained professionals to offer psychological services in health care centres, which resulted in psychological problems being referred to social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: July, Emma
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1166 , Medical care -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Public health -- Botswana -- Psychological aspects , Attitude (Psychology) -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Botswana , Medical personnel -- Attitudes , Primary health care -- Botswana , Awareness
- Description: The provision of psychological services is vital considering the complex nature of psychosocial issues facing people today. Nevertheless, the provision and utilization of psychological services has not been given due recognition in most African countries, including Botswana. Botswana is one of the countries faced by the challenges of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other mental health problems, as well as poverty and unemployment. To date statistics on the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Botswana, published annually by the National AIDS Coordinating Agency (NACA) reflect an increased rate of mental illness and psychosocial problems. Considering the complex nature of issues that impact negatively on people in Botswana, there is a need for awareness and the provision of psychological services in the primary health care system. There is little research on the place of psychology and psychological services in Botswana. The availability of such information is crucial for the planning of effective community-based psychological services. The present study employed a quantitative research method to explore and describe awareness and attitudes towards psychological services and referral practices in relation to psychological problems, of health care providers in Botswana. The participants in the study were chosen, based on a non-probability, purposive sampling method. The sample consisted of ninety-six persons and constituted medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and clinical social workers from governmental and non-governmental institutions from Gaborone and Francistown in Botswana. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviations. Frequency counts and percentages of the participants’ responses were computed. The results of the study revealed an awareness of available psychological services, positive attitudes towards psychology and psychological services and a reasonable percentage of referrals to psychological services. The results also revealed that available psychological services were limited and not easily accessible to patients. There was also an indication of a shortage of trained professionals to offer psychological services in health care centres, which resulted in psychological problems being referred to social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A budget and expenditure review of public hospital facilities in the Eastern Cape in transition towards National Health Insurance
- Authors: Ndlovu, Garfield OG
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Health services administration--South Africa--Eastern Cape Government spending policy--South Africa--Eastern Cape Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health Leadership
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11139 , vital:37174
- Description: The quest to ameliorate and enhance the equitable allocation of resources in the Health Industry remains a global challenge, in particular the distribution of funding resources in public sector health facilities. The need to analyse and understand the appropriation of budget and utilisation of funds by hospital facilities is important in the in the Eastern Cape. The focus of the study seeks to explore recommendations that can be employed in the provincial budgeting process of Hospital Facilities, in a bid to optimise efficiency and improve the funding process as part of the provincial readiness activities towards the realisation of the NHI System and funding approach, wherein the NHI Fund will be a public entity that is not in business to make profit (NHI Booklet 2012: 05). This fund will introduce new systems of paying hospitals and professionals for the services they provide, aiming to be fair to them but to put a stop to unreasonable profits (NHI Booklet 2012: 05). The research has employed the use of descriptive quantitative techniques in order to undertake an expenditure review of existing financial data with respect to the Eastern Cape public Hospitals. The study followed a quantitative descriptive research design, the purpose of this study is that, quantitative research deals in numbers, logic, and an objective stance (Babbie: 2010). The Quantitative aspect of the study found that the data provided, allowed the researcher to organise, synthesise, prioritise and assign value to specific key performance indicators that would be used for the appraisal of hospital facilities in relation to the expenditure patterns based which would present a glimpse into how the Eastern Cape department of health utilises funding resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ndlovu, Garfield OG
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Health services administration--South Africa--Eastern Cape Government spending policy--South Africa--Eastern Cape Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health Leadership
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11139 , vital:37174
- Description: The quest to ameliorate and enhance the equitable allocation of resources in the Health Industry remains a global challenge, in particular the distribution of funding resources in public sector health facilities. The need to analyse and understand the appropriation of budget and utilisation of funds by hospital facilities is important in the in the Eastern Cape. The focus of the study seeks to explore recommendations that can be employed in the provincial budgeting process of Hospital Facilities, in a bid to optimise efficiency and improve the funding process as part of the provincial readiness activities towards the realisation of the NHI System and funding approach, wherein the NHI Fund will be a public entity that is not in business to make profit (NHI Booklet 2012: 05). This fund will introduce new systems of paying hospitals and professionals for the services they provide, aiming to be fair to them but to put a stop to unreasonable profits (NHI Booklet 2012: 05). The research has employed the use of descriptive quantitative techniques in order to undertake an expenditure review of existing financial data with respect to the Eastern Cape public Hospitals. The study followed a quantitative descriptive research design, the purpose of this study is that, quantitative research deals in numbers, logic, and an objective stance (Babbie: 2010). The Quantitative aspect of the study found that the data provided, allowed the researcher to organise, synthesise, prioritise and assign value to specific key performance indicators that would be used for the appraisal of hospital facilities in relation to the expenditure patterns based which would present a glimpse into how the Eastern Cape department of health utilises funding resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring and describing depressogenic cognitive schema, levels of depression and hopelessness among depressed and non depressed adults
- Authors: Ahlfeldt, Alan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/393 , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Description: The subject of mood disorders and in particular depression is pertinent with rapidly increasing incidences of depression and suicide a widespread phenomenon in the world today. In South Africa, the rates of depression are increasing steadily each year. Much research has been undertaken in the area of depression, with negative cognitive schema identified as a common factor, which increases an individual’s vulnerability or diathesis to depression and hopelessness. The primary aims of this research are to explore and describe the depressogenic cognitive schema of both a depressed as well as normal (nondepressed) individuals and identify the relationship these schema have to levels of depression and hopelessness. In order to achieve these objectives, three measures were administered, the Beck’s Depression Inventory, the Beck’s Hopelessness Scale and the Inferential Style Questionnaire. The research design is quantitative in nature and took the form of an exploratory-descriptive study. The researcher made use of frequency tests to identify frequencies of scores and descriptive statistics to identify the mean, range and standard deviations. T tests, a Pearson product- moment correlation coefficient and factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) were also employed for statistical analysis within this research study. The findings of this research study identify that the depressed sample scored higher levels of depression, hopelessness and negative inferential style than that of the normal sample.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ahlfeldt, Alan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/393 , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Description: The subject of mood disorders and in particular depression is pertinent with rapidly increasing incidences of depression and suicide a widespread phenomenon in the world today. In South Africa, the rates of depression are increasing steadily each year. Much research has been undertaken in the area of depression, with negative cognitive schema identified as a common factor, which increases an individual’s vulnerability or diathesis to depression and hopelessness. The primary aims of this research are to explore and describe the depressogenic cognitive schema of both a depressed as well as normal (nondepressed) individuals and identify the relationship these schema have to levels of depression and hopelessness. In order to achieve these objectives, three measures were administered, the Beck’s Depression Inventory, the Beck’s Hopelessness Scale and the Inferential Style Questionnaire. The research design is quantitative in nature and took the form of an exploratory-descriptive study. The researcher made use of frequency tests to identify frequencies of scores and descriptive statistics to identify the mean, range and standard deviations. T tests, a Pearson product- moment correlation coefficient and factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) were also employed for statistical analysis within this research study. The findings of this research study identify that the depressed sample scored higher levels of depression, hopelessness and negative inferential style than that of the normal sample.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An intervention study to develop a male circumcision health promotion programme at Libode Rural Communities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Effect of a physical activity intervention on the physical fitness of primary schoolchildren in disadvantaged communities in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Mediating factors in the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and HIV Sexual risk behaviour among men who have sex with men
- Authors: Heusser, Shelly Lucien
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sexually transmitted diseases -- Psychological aspects , Risk-taking (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1398 , Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sexually transmitted diseases -- Psychological aspects , Risk-taking (Psychology)
- Description: Previous studies have indicated an association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and an increased risk of engaging in unsafe behaviours during adulthood, including risky sexual practices. This study examined the relationship between CSA and adult HIV sexual risk behaviour among a sample of South African men who have sex with men (MSM). Potential pathological long-term mental health outcomes of CSA, including dissociation, sex-related substance abuse, depression, sexual compulsivity, impaired interpersonal communication, and over-reliance on submissive sexual scripts, were treated as variables mediating the relationship between CSA and sexual risk behaviour. Men frequenting a gay internet dating site were randomly selected to complete an electronic version of the anonymous survey. Results indicate that one-fourth of participants reported a history of CSA. Men with a history of unwanted sexual activity during childhood were more likely to report recreational substance abuse, sex-related substance abuse, sexual compulsivity, and adult revictimisation experiences. Men who were abused were also more likely to engage in unprotected anal intercourse compared to those who were not abused. Mediation analyses revealed that MSM who are survivors of CSA are particularly susceptible to drug abuse, sex-related drug abuse, and sexual compulsivity, and these sequelae in turn predict higher reported numbers of male sexual partners. The current data suggest that CSA is widespread among men at high risk for HIV infection, and that it may have a devastating influence on the quality of life and health risk behaviour of these men. These results also highlight the importance of mental health services and new approaches in HIV prevention for MSM who have been sexually abused as children. Further research is needed into the contextual factors of the childhood abuse experience which account for the variability in longterm negative mental health outcomes of CSA survivors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Heusser, Shelly Lucien
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sexually transmitted diseases -- Psychological aspects , Risk-taking (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1398 , Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sexually transmitted diseases -- Psychological aspects , Risk-taking (Psychology)
- Description: Previous studies have indicated an association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and an increased risk of engaging in unsafe behaviours during adulthood, including risky sexual practices. This study examined the relationship between CSA and adult HIV sexual risk behaviour among a sample of South African men who have sex with men (MSM). Potential pathological long-term mental health outcomes of CSA, including dissociation, sex-related substance abuse, depression, sexual compulsivity, impaired interpersonal communication, and over-reliance on submissive sexual scripts, were treated as variables mediating the relationship between CSA and sexual risk behaviour. Men frequenting a gay internet dating site were randomly selected to complete an electronic version of the anonymous survey. Results indicate that one-fourth of participants reported a history of CSA. Men with a history of unwanted sexual activity during childhood were more likely to report recreational substance abuse, sex-related substance abuse, sexual compulsivity, and adult revictimisation experiences. Men who were abused were also more likely to engage in unprotected anal intercourse compared to those who were not abused. Mediation analyses revealed that MSM who are survivors of CSA are particularly susceptible to drug abuse, sex-related drug abuse, and sexual compulsivity, and these sequelae in turn predict higher reported numbers of male sexual partners. The current data suggest that CSA is widespread among men at high risk for HIV infection, and that it may have a devastating influence on the quality of life and health risk behaviour of these men. These results also highlight the importance of mental health services and new approaches in HIV prevention for MSM who have been sexually abused as children. Further research is needed into the contextual factors of the childhood abuse experience which account for the variability in longterm negative mental health outcomes of CSA survivors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Perceptions of unit managers regarding competencies of newly qualified registered nurses in East London health services
- Authors: Bengu, Phindiwe Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13597 , vital:39683
- Description: The South African Nursing Council requires registered nurses to have the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes and values which will enable them to render an efficient service (Morolong and Chabeli, 2005:39). The South African Education and training system, through its policy of outcomes- based education and training, has tabled competency as a national priority. In support of this, the South African Nursing Council (SANC) requires that the newly qualified registered nurse possess competency on the core functions of a registered nurse. The health system also demands competent nurse practitioners to ensure quality nursing care. Due to the fact that competency is a national priority and a statutory demand, the research question that guided the study is what are the perceptions of unit managers regarding competencies of newly qualified registered nurses in East London Health Care services. The study was aimed at describing the perceptions of unit managers regarding the competencies of newly qualified registered nurses in order to propose the recommendations to improve the competencies of such newly qualified registered nurses and to provide quality patient care. A quantitative descriptive non experimental design was used to evaluate the perceptions of unit managers regarding competencies of newly qualified registered nurses from a public nursing college. The sampling method of probability convenience sampling was used in this study. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire administered to ninety unit managers and only eighty one unit managers participated in the study. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software. Statistical methods enabled the researcher to reduce, summarize, organise, manipulate, evaluate, interpret and communicate quantitative data. Data were cleaned and coded and spoilt data were checked. Findings from the software were displayed in graphs or tables. Concerning the eighty one unit managers who participated in the study, age and sex matched respondents were selected according to their availability.The results showed that there is agreement that competence of the nurses affects the image, mission and staff utilisation in their units and/or institutions. There was no dominant opinion on the possible association between competency and environmental, physical and technological factors. There was unanimous agreement that newly qualified nurses need constant supervision and in-service training. There was moderate agreement on the use of acquired knowledge and skills by nurses and there was no dominant opinion about how newly qualified nurses tolerate differences and handle misunderstandings and shortcomings of other professions. In conclusion newly qualified registered nurses need coaching, mentoring, n-service training and constant supervision. Recommendations regarding strategies to be used to improve competencies of newly qualified registered nurses included exit evaluations of community service practitioners, stipulating the competency framework of newly qualified nurses and assessment criteria of competency. Mentoring and coaching of newly qualified registered nurses during community service, monthly or quarterly meetings with the community service candidate in order to identify their challenges were also recommended. Motivation strategies in order to boost their morale so that they can deliver quality patient care. The newly qualified registered nurses should hold meetings with the unit managers regarding the challenges the unit managers face when assessing competencies of newly qualified registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bengu, Phindiwe Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13597 , vital:39683
- Description: The South African Nursing Council requires registered nurses to have the necessary knowledge, skills, attitudes and values which will enable them to render an efficient service (Morolong and Chabeli, 2005:39). The South African Education and training system, through its policy of outcomes- based education and training, has tabled competency as a national priority. In support of this, the South African Nursing Council (SANC) requires that the newly qualified registered nurse possess competency on the core functions of a registered nurse. The health system also demands competent nurse practitioners to ensure quality nursing care. Due to the fact that competency is a national priority and a statutory demand, the research question that guided the study is what are the perceptions of unit managers regarding competencies of newly qualified registered nurses in East London Health Care services. The study was aimed at describing the perceptions of unit managers regarding the competencies of newly qualified registered nurses in order to propose the recommendations to improve the competencies of such newly qualified registered nurses and to provide quality patient care. A quantitative descriptive non experimental design was used to evaluate the perceptions of unit managers regarding competencies of newly qualified registered nurses from a public nursing college. The sampling method of probability convenience sampling was used in this study. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire administered to ninety unit managers and only eighty one unit managers participated in the study. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software. Statistical methods enabled the researcher to reduce, summarize, organise, manipulate, evaluate, interpret and communicate quantitative data. Data were cleaned and coded and spoilt data were checked. Findings from the software were displayed in graphs or tables. Concerning the eighty one unit managers who participated in the study, age and sex matched respondents were selected according to their availability.The results showed that there is agreement that competence of the nurses affects the image, mission and staff utilisation in their units and/or institutions. There was no dominant opinion on the possible association between competency and environmental, physical and technological factors. There was unanimous agreement that newly qualified nurses need constant supervision and in-service training. There was moderate agreement on the use of acquired knowledge and skills by nurses and there was no dominant opinion about how newly qualified nurses tolerate differences and handle misunderstandings and shortcomings of other professions. In conclusion newly qualified registered nurses need coaching, mentoring, n-service training and constant supervision. Recommendations regarding strategies to be used to improve competencies of newly qualified registered nurses included exit evaluations of community service practitioners, stipulating the competency framework of newly qualified nurses and assessment criteria of competency. Mentoring and coaching of newly qualified registered nurses during community service, monthly or quarterly meetings with the community service candidate in order to identify their challenges were also recommended. Motivation strategies in order to boost their morale so that they can deliver quality patient care. The newly qualified registered nurses should hold meetings with the unit managers regarding the challenges the unit managers face when assessing competencies of newly qualified registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perceptions and current practices of Namibian midwives regarding the use of the cardio-tocograph as an informative labour monitoring tool for labouring women
- Authors: Uusiku, Laura Ingashipwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Fetal heart rate monitoring Midwives -- Namibia , Midwifery -- Namibia Hospital patients -- Namibia -- Attitudes Medical care -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21318 , vital:29477
- Description: Labour is a vital period for the labouring mothers, as it should bring with it the fulfilment of an expectation of having the baby that has been awaited. The health of the foetus which is to be born and that of the labouring mother are inextricably linked with each other which is why the labouring mother needs to be assessed and monitored carefully. The cardio-tocograph, which is a globally accepted method of diagnosis and assessment of the foetal status during labour is preferred to be used in monitoring labouring mothers, especially high- risk patients. Despite the evidence and information regarding the effectiveness of the use of the cardio-tocograph, midwives are still found not to be using it correctly, the reasons given that the women not always co-operate; do not keep the electrode and belt in place or cite the discomfort they experience from contraction. The objectives of this study were to: explore and describe the perceptions and current practice of Namibian midwives regarding the use of the cardio-tocograph as an informative labour- monitoring tool. Explore and describe how midwives working in labour wards in Namibia perceive informing laboring women of the use of the cardio-tocograph as an informative labour- monitoring tool and based on the results, develop an instruction guide for midwives working in the labour ward in intermediate hospital in Namibia that would serve as a guide on how to teach labouring women about the use of the cardio-tocograph as a labour- monitoring tool and enhance positive labor and delivery outcomes The study was conducted between May and June 2016, using a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design, following the necessary university approval and approval from other relevant authorities. The research population was midwives who work in labour wards at a public hospital in Namibia. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from purposively sampled participants using set criteria. A voice recorder was used to capture the interview with the permission of the participants. Seventeen midwives were interviewed of whom two were used for the pilot study. Data saturation determined the sufficient sample size. The collected data was analyzed using Tesch’s spiral method of data analysis with the assistance of an independent coder From the research findings, it emerged that midwives had varying perceptions regarding the use of the CTG machine. Midwives still perceive CTG interpretation as a challenge as a labour -monitoring tool and expressed a need for updates. Furthermore, midwives expressed the fact that they had limited communication with labouring women regarding the use of CTG. Based on the research findings and guided by Health Belief Model principles, three main guidelines were developed for midwives working in the labour ward in a public hospital in Namibia. These guidelines will serve as a tool to assist midwives in their teaching of labouring women about the use of the cardio-tocograph as a labour- monitoring tool, and the role to be played by labouring women during that monitoring period. Furthermore, recommendations for clinical nursing practice, nursing education and nursing research were developed. The researcher used literature control to ensure validation and integrity of the study. Trustworthiness, which was used to ensure rigour of the study, was guided by the principles of truth-value, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont report adopting the principles of beneficence, respect for human dignity, justice and non-maleficence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Uusiku, Laura Ingashipwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Fetal heart rate monitoring Midwives -- Namibia , Midwifery -- Namibia Hospital patients -- Namibia -- Attitudes Medical care -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21318 , vital:29477
- Description: Labour is a vital period for the labouring mothers, as it should bring with it the fulfilment of an expectation of having the baby that has been awaited. The health of the foetus which is to be born and that of the labouring mother are inextricably linked with each other which is why the labouring mother needs to be assessed and monitored carefully. The cardio-tocograph, which is a globally accepted method of diagnosis and assessment of the foetal status during labour is preferred to be used in monitoring labouring mothers, especially high- risk patients. Despite the evidence and information regarding the effectiveness of the use of the cardio-tocograph, midwives are still found not to be using it correctly, the reasons given that the women not always co-operate; do not keep the electrode and belt in place or cite the discomfort they experience from contraction. The objectives of this study were to: explore and describe the perceptions and current practice of Namibian midwives regarding the use of the cardio-tocograph as an informative labour- monitoring tool. Explore and describe how midwives working in labour wards in Namibia perceive informing laboring women of the use of the cardio-tocograph as an informative labour- monitoring tool and based on the results, develop an instruction guide for midwives working in the labour ward in intermediate hospital in Namibia that would serve as a guide on how to teach labouring women about the use of the cardio-tocograph as a labour- monitoring tool and enhance positive labor and delivery outcomes The study was conducted between May and June 2016, using a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design, following the necessary university approval and approval from other relevant authorities. The research population was midwives who work in labour wards at a public hospital in Namibia. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from purposively sampled participants using set criteria. A voice recorder was used to capture the interview with the permission of the participants. Seventeen midwives were interviewed of whom two were used for the pilot study. Data saturation determined the sufficient sample size. The collected data was analyzed using Tesch’s spiral method of data analysis with the assistance of an independent coder From the research findings, it emerged that midwives had varying perceptions regarding the use of the CTG machine. Midwives still perceive CTG interpretation as a challenge as a labour -monitoring tool and expressed a need for updates. Furthermore, midwives expressed the fact that they had limited communication with labouring women regarding the use of CTG. Based on the research findings and guided by Health Belief Model principles, three main guidelines were developed for midwives working in the labour ward in a public hospital in Namibia. These guidelines will serve as a tool to assist midwives in their teaching of labouring women about the use of the cardio-tocograph as a labour- monitoring tool, and the role to be played by labouring women during that monitoring period. Furthermore, recommendations for clinical nursing practice, nursing education and nursing research were developed. The researcher used literature control to ensure validation and integrity of the study. Trustworthiness, which was used to ensure rigour of the study, was guided by the principles of truth-value, transferability, dependability and confirmability. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont report adopting the principles of beneficence, respect for human dignity, justice and non-maleficence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit
- Authors: Bowers, Candice Andrea
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Evidence-based medicine , Critical care medicine , Nursing ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013612
- Description: Over the last three decades there has been a greater need for health care practitioners to base their decision on the best available in order to optimise quality and cost-effective patient care. Evidence-based practice necessitates guideline development, education and review in order to achieve improved patient outcomes. However, initiatives that endeavour to disseminate and implement evidence-based practice have faced barriers and opposition. Barriers that might hamper the implementation of evidence-based practice include characteristics of the evidence itself, personal, institutional or organizational factors. The research study explored and described the barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit. Based on the data analysis, recommendations were made to enhance the implementation of evidence-based practices in the critical care unit. A quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to operationalize the research objectives. The target population comprised professional nurses in the critical care unit. Non-probability sampling was used to obtain data by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was applied, using a statistical programme and the aid of a statistician. The results are graphically displayed using bar graphs and tables. Recommendations for nursing practice, education and research were made. Ethical principles have been maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bowers, Candice Andrea
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Evidence-based medicine , Critical care medicine , Nursing ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013612
- Description: Over the last three decades there has been a greater need for health care practitioners to base their decision on the best available in order to optimise quality and cost-effective patient care. Evidence-based practice necessitates guideline development, education and review in order to achieve improved patient outcomes. However, initiatives that endeavour to disseminate and implement evidence-based practice have faced barriers and opposition. Barriers that might hamper the implementation of evidence-based practice include characteristics of the evidence itself, personal, institutional or organizational factors. The research study explored and described the barriers to implementation of evidence-based practices in a critical care unit. Based on the data analysis, recommendations were made to enhance the implementation of evidence-based practices in the critical care unit. A quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to operationalize the research objectives. The target population comprised professional nurses in the critical care unit. Non-probability sampling was used to obtain data by means of a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive data analysis was applied, using a statistical programme and the aid of a statistician. The results are graphically displayed using bar graphs and tables. Recommendations for nursing practice, education and research were made. Ethical principles have been maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A model for the facilitation of intergenerational reconciliation during teenage pregnancy a Xhosa perspective
- Authors: James, Sindiwe Valencia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10043 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/458 , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Family relationships
- Description: Teenage pregnancy is an international phenomenon with girls falling pregnant from as early as 14 years of age. In South Africa teenage pregnancies are also on the increase (Kaiser, 2000:18; Statistica SA, 2006:5;). Teenage pregnancy may have negative effects for the teenager in that it can force the teenager to drop out of school prematurely as well as shortening her educational career which might limit future career possibilities. It also predisposes both the mother and the child to health risks. Finally, teenage pregnancy also leads to family destabilisation. Within the Xhosa communities family destabilisation becomes even more severe as it is culturally and traditionally related. Traditionally, teenage pregnancy in the Xhosa communities is stigmatized. The family suffers from embarrassment and disappointment and the effects of these experiences can manifest in outrage on the part of the parents towards the pregnant teenager resulting in non-communication with her and ultimately rejection (Boult & Cunningham, 1991:36). This results in no or minimal support from the family (Nxumalo, 1997:16). The research design and method to achieve the objective of the study was a theory-generative design based on a qualitative, phenomenological, explorative, descriptive and contextual research approach utilizing the four steps of theory generation. During the step of concept analysis, which is the first step of the process of theory generation, data was collected by means of individual interviews with the pregnant Xhosa teenagers, parents and grandparents. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. The sample for the study was selected purposively to ensure indepth information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: James, Sindiwe Valencia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10043 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/458 , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- South Africa -- Family relationships
- Description: Teenage pregnancy is an international phenomenon with girls falling pregnant from as early as 14 years of age. In South Africa teenage pregnancies are also on the increase (Kaiser, 2000:18; Statistica SA, 2006:5;). Teenage pregnancy may have negative effects for the teenager in that it can force the teenager to drop out of school prematurely as well as shortening her educational career which might limit future career possibilities. It also predisposes both the mother and the child to health risks. Finally, teenage pregnancy also leads to family destabilisation. Within the Xhosa communities family destabilisation becomes even more severe as it is culturally and traditionally related. Traditionally, teenage pregnancy in the Xhosa communities is stigmatized. The family suffers from embarrassment and disappointment and the effects of these experiences can manifest in outrage on the part of the parents towards the pregnant teenager resulting in non-communication with her and ultimately rejection (Boult & Cunningham, 1991:36). This results in no or minimal support from the family (Nxumalo, 1997:16). The research design and method to achieve the objective of the study was a theory-generative design based on a qualitative, phenomenological, explorative, descriptive and contextual research approach utilizing the four steps of theory generation. During the step of concept analysis, which is the first step of the process of theory generation, data was collected by means of individual interviews with the pregnant Xhosa teenagers, parents and grandparents. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. The sample for the study was selected purposively to ensure indepth information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Exploring relocation experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in Port Elizabeth
- Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Authors: Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9999 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1068 , Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Large numbers of migrants enter South Africa legally and illegally in search of a better life, personal safety and security (Pretorius, 2004:1). The research study explored and described experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in the host country, the challenges they encountered in the process of integration regarding families in their country of origin and their “new” families in the host country, the strategies they employed to get recognition even if it led to being involved in fraudulent activities. The research has also explored the impact of laws in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers for example the Refugee Act (Act 130 of 1998), the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002), the 1969 OAU Convention and the 1951 United Nations Convention. A qualitative research approach was used to frame the study, which employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design so as to understand challenges experienced by refugees and asylum seekers. The sample for the study was a purposively selected sample recruited using the snowball sampling technique. As a means of collecting data semi-structured interviews were utilized. The eight steps as stipulated by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994) were used to analyse data. To ensure trustworthiness the four criteria as suggested by Guba (in Krefting, 1991) were applied, namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality. The findings and recommendations are made available by means of a research report The research findings were centered on the following themes: (1) Refugees and asylum seekers articulate a range of reasons behind the decision to leave their home country. (2) Refugees and asylum seekers express negative experiences regarding leaving their country of origin. (3) Refugees and asylum seekers experience a range of feelings as they enter the host country (4) Refugees and asylum seekers report that they and their families experience a number of challenges as a result of relocation (5) Refugees and asylum seekers employ negative and positive strategies to cope with challenges of relocation (6) Suggestions made by refugees and asylum seekers concerning the involvement of Social Workers (7) Suggestions made by refugees/asylum seekers to Home Affairs in terms of improving services to refugees and asylum seekers Substance findings: the results emerged from the data collected through the themes and sub-themes identified during data analysis. Conclusions and recommendations: Based on the findings conclusions were drawn and recommendations proposed from the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Sibula, Nontutuzelo Rosemary
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9999 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1068 , Refugees -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Refugee camps -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Large numbers of migrants enter South Africa legally and illegally in search of a better life, personal safety and security (Pretorius, 2004:1). The research study explored and described experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in the host country, the challenges they encountered in the process of integration regarding families in their country of origin and their “new” families in the host country, the strategies they employed to get recognition even if it led to being involved in fraudulent activities. The research has also explored the impact of laws in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers for example the Refugee Act (Act 130 of 1998), the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002), the 1969 OAU Convention and the 1951 United Nations Convention. A qualitative research approach was used to frame the study, which employed an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design so as to understand challenges experienced by refugees and asylum seekers. The sample for the study was a purposively selected sample recruited using the snowball sampling technique. As a means of collecting data semi-structured interviews were utilized. The eight steps as stipulated by Tesch (in Creswell, 1994) were used to analyse data. To ensure trustworthiness the four criteria as suggested by Guba (in Krefting, 1991) were applied, namely truth-value, applicability, consistency and neutrality. The findings and recommendations are made available by means of a research report The research findings were centered on the following themes: (1) Refugees and asylum seekers articulate a range of reasons behind the decision to leave their home country. (2) Refugees and asylum seekers express negative experiences regarding leaving their country of origin. (3) Refugees and asylum seekers experience a range of feelings as they enter the host country (4) Refugees and asylum seekers report that they and their families experience a number of challenges as a result of relocation (5) Refugees and asylum seekers employ negative and positive strategies to cope with challenges of relocation (6) Suggestions made by refugees and asylum seekers concerning the involvement of Social Workers (7) Suggestions made by refugees/asylum seekers to Home Affairs in terms of improving services to refugees and asylum seekers Substance findings: the results emerged from the data collected through the themes and sub-themes identified during data analysis. Conclusions and recommendations: Based on the findings conclusions were drawn and recommendations proposed from the findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples in the Talensi and Nabdam districts of Ghana experiencing infertility
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Comparison of leg dominance and fatigue state on lower extremity kinematics during cutting manoeuvres in male soccer players
- Authors: Nienaber, Madeleine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human mechanics , Kinematics Kinesiology Sports injuries Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42880 , vital:36702
- Description: Soccer is one of the most popular sports played in South Africa and around the world. Soccer is a high intensity, semi-contact sport which is associated with an increased prevalence of injuries, especially to the lower extremities. Central and neuromuscular fatigue is believed to cause changes to kinetic and kinematic patterns of soccer players which may increase the risk for injuries, specifically related to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). To investigate the effects of fatigue on knee joint kinematics during the stance phase of a cutting manoeuvre of the dominant and non-dominant legs. A quantitative approach, more specifically, an experimental study design was adopte and a quasi-experimental study design was selected. A ‘within-participants post-test only design’ was used, which is also known as a ‘repeated measures design’ because all participants were ‘repeatedly’ measured under each experimental condition. Due to the non-randomization of the quasi-experimental design, non-probability sampling was utilized to sample the population group for the proposed study. A total of 13 male soccer players volunteered for the study. The participants had the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age 22.15 ± 2.77 years; height 169.64 ± 5.75 cm and weight 64.60 ± 7.04 kg. Non-significant differences within hip joint kinematics were observed between the dominant and non-dominant legs in a non-fatigued state in all three planes of motion (F = 0.61, p = 0.55). Similar kinematic characteristics were observed for the knee joint (F = 1.25, p = 0.48) and the ankle joint (F = 3.33, p = 0.64). Non-significant differences were also observed during the fatigued state in all three planes of motion for the hip joints (F = 8.98, p = 0.72), knee joints (F = 5.21, p = 0.41) and ankle joints (F = 0.21, p = 0.12). Peak vertical forces were however significantly different between the fatigued state compared to the non-fatigued state during the cutting manoeuvre (F = 23.51, p = 0.035), thereby indicating that neuromuscular fatigue may influence landing forces on impact during a directional change. The effect of leg dominance did not have a statistically significant impact on any kinematic measures as well as the interactions between fatigue and non-fatigue trials were also not observed for any of the kinematic parameters. Several initial contact and peak stance–phase lower limb-joint rotations were influenced by fatigue during the execution of the sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The main effect of fatigue produced an increase in knee internal rotation and hip abduction and a decrease in peak knee abduction angles compared to non-fatigue, but they were not statistically significant. Significant differences were found between dominant and non-dominant legs as well as between fatigue and non-fatigue with ankle pronation (p=0.007) and ankle external rotation (p=0.033). Knee abduction angle during cutting (p=0.061) also showed an effect even though not statistically significant. The purpose was to examine the combined effects of leg dominance and fatigue on lower-limb biomechanics during a sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The conclusion of the present study related to limb dominance was that no statistically significant differences were evident for any of the dependent variables (limb dominance; fatigue state) related to the independent variables (i.e. joint [hip, knee, ankle], contact time, ground reaction however, between-subject fatigue variations that is large enough could negatively impact the biomechanical data comparisons. Future research should target specific locations of fatigue within a general fatigue paradigm and develop standardized tasks to achieve this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nienaber, Madeleine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human mechanics , Kinematics Kinesiology Sports injuries Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42880 , vital:36702
- Description: Soccer is one of the most popular sports played in South Africa and around the world. Soccer is a high intensity, semi-contact sport which is associated with an increased prevalence of injuries, especially to the lower extremities. Central and neuromuscular fatigue is believed to cause changes to kinetic and kinematic patterns of soccer players which may increase the risk for injuries, specifically related to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). To investigate the effects of fatigue on knee joint kinematics during the stance phase of a cutting manoeuvre of the dominant and non-dominant legs. A quantitative approach, more specifically, an experimental study design was adopte and a quasi-experimental study design was selected. A ‘within-participants post-test only design’ was used, which is also known as a ‘repeated measures design’ because all participants were ‘repeatedly’ measured under each experimental condition. Due to the non-randomization of the quasi-experimental design, non-probability sampling was utilized to sample the population group for the proposed study. A total of 13 male soccer players volunteered for the study. The participants had the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age 22.15 ± 2.77 years; height 169.64 ± 5.75 cm and weight 64.60 ± 7.04 kg. Non-significant differences within hip joint kinematics were observed between the dominant and non-dominant legs in a non-fatigued state in all three planes of motion (F = 0.61, p = 0.55). Similar kinematic characteristics were observed for the knee joint (F = 1.25, p = 0.48) and the ankle joint (F = 3.33, p = 0.64). Non-significant differences were also observed during the fatigued state in all three planes of motion for the hip joints (F = 8.98, p = 0.72), knee joints (F = 5.21, p = 0.41) and ankle joints (F = 0.21, p = 0.12). Peak vertical forces were however significantly different between the fatigued state compared to the non-fatigued state during the cutting manoeuvre (F = 23.51, p = 0.035), thereby indicating that neuromuscular fatigue may influence landing forces on impact during a directional change. The effect of leg dominance did not have a statistically significant impact on any kinematic measures as well as the interactions between fatigue and non-fatigue trials were also not observed for any of the kinematic parameters. Several initial contact and peak stance–phase lower limb-joint rotations were influenced by fatigue during the execution of the sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The main effect of fatigue produced an increase in knee internal rotation and hip abduction and a decrease in peak knee abduction angles compared to non-fatigue, but they were not statistically significant. Significant differences were found between dominant and non-dominant legs as well as between fatigue and non-fatigue with ankle pronation (p=0.007) and ankle external rotation (p=0.033). Knee abduction angle during cutting (p=0.061) also showed an effect even though not statistically significant. The purpose was to examine the combined effects of leg dominance and fatigue on lower-limb biomechanics during a sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The conclusion of the present study related to limb dominance was that no statistically significant differences were evident for any of the dependent variables (limb dominance; fatigue state) related to the independent variables (i.e. joint [hip, knee, ankle], contact time, ground reaction however, between-subject fatigue variations that is large enough could negatively impact the biomechanical data comparisons. Future research should target specific locations of fatigue within a general fatigue paradigm and develop standardized tasks to achieve this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive parent-child relationships
- Authors: Boshoff, Marcelle Dianne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Parent and adult child , Fammilies -- Psychological aspects , Adult children -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4631 , vital:20624
- Description: The incidence of increased life span as well as a lack of care for older persons, gave rise to the South African Older persons Act (Act No 13 of 2006), which guides society in how our older persons should be treated. This Act also provides a clear indication of the expectations of caring for older persons within communities and families. Many older persons people rely on the relationships they have with their children in their golden years, to be fulfilling and loving. This study therefore aimed to explore the experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive relationships in order for the relationship to be most beneficial for both older persons and their adult children. The quality of relationships between adult children and older persons according to Newby (2010) can ease participation of adult children in the lives of older persons. This study was conducted from a qualitative research perspective that is exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The exploratory-descriptive design allowed the researcher to understand the topic by using a narrative strategy of inquiry. A non-probability purposive sampling method was applied to identify five older persons as well as the adult children of these older persons who are retirees of an automotive company in South Africa. Individual, semi-structured face to face interviews were conducted with older persons as well as with at least one of their adult children who did not reside with them. Thematic data analysis technique was used to analyse the data collected. The study is viewed as significant in enhancing the understanding of satisfying and caring relationships between older persons and their adult children in order to add to the body of existing knowledge in social gerontology and to improve direct social work practice with older persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Boshoff, Marcelle Dianne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Parent and adult child , Fammilies -- Psychological aspects , Adult children -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4631 , vital:20624
- Description: The incidence of increased life span as well as a lack of care for older persons, gave rise to the South African Older persons Act (Act No 13 of 2006), which guides society in how our older persons should be treated. This Act also provides a clear indication of the expectations of caring for older persons within communities and families. Many older persons people rely on the relationships they have with their children in their golden years, to be fulfilling and loving. This study therefore aimed to explore the experiences of older persons and their adult children on maintaining positive relationships in order for the relationship to be most beneficial for both older persons and their adult children. The quality of relationships between adult children and older persons according to Newby (2010) can ease participation of adult children in the lives of older persons. This study was conducted from a qualitative research perspective that is exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The exploratory-descriptive design allowed the researcher to understand the topic by using a narrative strategy of inquiry. A non-probability purposive sampling method was applied to identify five older persons as well as the adult children of these older persons who are retirees of an automotive company in South Africa. Individual, semi-structured face to face interviews were conducted with older persons as well as with at least one of their adult children who did not reside with them. Thematic data analysis technique was used to analyse the data collected. The study is viewed as significant in enhancing the understanding of satisfying and caring relationships between older persons and their adult children in order to add to the body of existing knowledge in social gerontology and to improve direct social work practice with older persons.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Student perceptions of online infidelity
- Authors: Bands, Luke
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adultery , Online dating Sex -- Social aspects Sex -- Psychological aspects , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42096 , vital:36625
- Description: There has been a large amount of research on infidelity and its effects on relationships. However, a new phenomenon, that of online infidelity, has emerged and with it comes some confusion as to what exactly constitutes an act of infidelity while exploring the limits of cyberspace. While some research has been done internationally on the perceptions of online infidelity, studies conducted in South Africa are lacking. The aim of the present study was to explore and describe student perceptions of online infidelity. Social Constructionism was used as the theoretical framework for the study. A qualitative approach was used and the study was exploratory and descriptive in design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, with the sample size of the study being twelve. Thematic analysis, as outlined by Braun and Clarke, was used in order to analyse the obtained data. Two main themes emerged, namely Defining Online Infidelity, and Reasons Surrounding Perceptions of Online Infidelity. The findings of the present study will provide a better understanding of perceptions of online infidelity within the South African context, and can be used for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bands, Luke
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adultery , Online dating Sex -- Social aspects Sex -- Psychological aspects , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42096 , vital:36625
- Description: There has been a large amount of research on infidelity and its effects on relationships. However, a new phenomenon, that of online infidelity, has emerged and with it comes some confusion as to what exactly constitutes an act of infidelity while exploring the limits of cyberspace. While some research has been done internationally on the perceptions of online infidelity, studies conducted in South Africa are lacking. The aim of the present study was to explore and describe student perceptions of online infidelity. Social Constructionism was used as the theoretical framework for the study. A qualitative approach was used and the study was exploratory and descriptive in design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, with the sample size of the study being twelve. Thematic analysis, as outlined by Braun and Clarke, was used in order to analyse the obtained data. Two main themes emerged, namely Defining Online Infidelity, and Reasons Surrounding Perceptions of Online Infidelity. The findings of the present study will provide a better understanding of perceptions of online infidelity within the South African context, and can be used for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Registered nurses' knowledge of infection control and sterile technique principles in the operating room complex of private hospitals
- Authors: Malan, Kim
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Infection -- Prevention and control , Infection -- Nursing , Hospitals buildings -- Disinfection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1079 , Infection -- Prevention and control , Infection -- Nursing , Hospitals buildings -- Disinfection
- Description: Infections are a major source of morbidity and cause of mortality during the post-operative phase for patients. Wound infections are the second most commonly encountered type of nosocomial, hospital-acquired, infection in the United States (Nichols, 2007:8). Owing to the fact that wound infection may be induced, such as, by not applying infection control and sterile technique principles in the operating room complex, it is imperative to implement infection control principles and apply sterile technique principles. The researcher noticed that some of the sterile technique principles were not carried out in the operating room complex which lead to the necessity to assess the knowledge of registered nurses’ regarding the implementation of infection control and sterile technique principles. The main goal of the study was to explore and describe the knowledge of registered nurses’ in two private hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, related to infection control and sterile technique principles in the operating room complex. Following the analysis of the data, the researcher made recommendations for changes to be made to the existing infection control guidelines in the operating room complex. The research design was quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature. The sample consisted of all the registered nurses known as scrub nurses, in the operating room complex. The unit managers were excluded from the study, because the researcher utilized their assistance with the handing out and collecting of the questionnaires because, not all scrub nurses were at work at the same time. Firstly a pilot study was conducted (in both private hospitals) to confirm the reliability of the data collection instrument. Data was collected by means of a questionnaire that was self-administered and consisted out of three sections: Section A – Biographical Data; Section B – Knowledge Base Related to Infection Control Principles and Section C – Knowledge Base Related to the Principles of Asepsis. The researcher consulted experts to ensure the reliability and validity of the questionnaires and to ensure that the iv questionnaires would measure what it is intended to measure and that it will remain consistent. The data obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed by means of statistical and inferential analysis and included descriptive statistics with the assistance of a statistician. Following the analysis of the data, recommendations for changes to be made to the existing infection control guidelines in the operating room complex was made. This was done with relevant literature and the guidelines were discussed with experts in the field. The researcher ensured that all the legal and ethical requirements, such as the participants’ right to privacy, were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Malan, Kim
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Infection -- Prevention and control , Infection -- Nursing , Hospitals buildings -- Disinfection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1079 , Infection -- Prevention and control , Infection -- Nursing , Hospitals buildings -- Disinfection
- Description: Infections are a major source of morbidity and cause of mortality during the post-operative phase for patients. Wound infections are the second most commonly encountered type of nosocomial, hospital-acquired, infection in the United States (Nichols, 2007:8). Owing to the fact that wound infection may be induced, such as, by not applying infection control and sterile technique principles in the operating room complex, it is imperative to implement infection control principles and apply sterile technique principles. The researcher noticed that some of the sterile technique principles were not carried out in the operating room complex which lead to the necessity to assess the knowledge of registered nurses’ regarding the implementation of infection control and sterile technique principles. The main goal of the study was to explore and describe the knowledge of registered nurses’ in two private hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, related to infection control and sterile technique principles in the operating room complex. Following the analysis of the data, the researcher made recommendations for changes to be made to the existing infection control guidelines in the operating room complex. The research design was quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature. The sample consisted of all the registered nurses known as scrub nurses, in the operating room complex. The unit managers were excluded from the study, because the researcher utilized their assistance with the handing out and collecting of the questionnaires because, not all scrub nurses were at work at the same time. Firstly a pilot study was conducted (in both private hospitals) to confirm the reliability of the data collection instrument. Data was collected by means of a questionnaire that was self-administered and consisted out of three sections: Section A – Biographical Data; Section B – Knowledge Base Related to Infection Control Principles and Section C – Knowledge Base Related to the Principles of Asepsis. The researcher consulted experts to ensure the reliability and validity of the questionnaires and to ensure that the iv questionnaires would measure what it is intended to measure and that it will remain consistent. The data obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed by means of statistical and inferential analysis and included descriptive statistics with the assistance of a statistician. Following the analysis of the data, recommendations for changes to be made to the existing infection control guidelines in the operating room complex was made. This was done with relevant literature and the guidelines were discussed with experts in the field. The researcher ensured that all the legal and ethical requirements, such as the participants’ right to privacy, were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Development of a strategy to promote prenatal physical activity participation among women in Buffalo City Municipality, South Africa
- Okafor, Uchenna Benedine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0435-2041
- Authors: Okafor, Uchenna Benedine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0435-2041
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Prenatal care , Exercise for pregnant women
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22919 , vital:53218
- Description: Research has proven that prenatal physical activity practice is associated with multiple health benefits; however, most women in South Africa rarely participate in prenatal physical activity. In contrast to more developed countries, there is dearth of research focusing specifically on prenatal physical activity and exercise among South African women. Nevertheless, in order to effectively, and strategically promote such prenatal activity, such information is important to plan for an intervention strategy. The main aim of this study was to assess the level, patterns, and associated factors of prenatal physical activity; beliefs, knowledge, attitudes, perceived benefits, and sources of information women received during pregnancy; and, furthermore, to develop an effective and relevant intervention strategy to facilitate the participation in this particular activity in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods The study was a mixed-method, cross-sectional study design with both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analyses. The sequential explanatory design was adopted to merge and mix different datasets to be collected and analysed. The quantitative data involved a convenient sample of 1082 pregnant women in 12 randomly selected primary healthcare clinics offering antenatal health services in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape. The Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire was interviewer-administered to women at each antenatal health clinic on pre-specified days, in a designated room allocated to the primary researcher by the health facility manager. The descriptive statistics were frequency distribution, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Furthermore, the bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed on two categories of participants, namely inactive or active, to determine the factors affecting prenatal physical activity behaviour. Furthermore, multiple logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between physical activity and the predictor variables during pregnancy. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were applied to estimate factors associated with physical activity levels, and the associations between prenatal physical activity levels and socio-demographic, lifestyle, and obstetrics characteristics were determined using a chi-squared analyses. The significance level was set at p = 0.05. In addition, a qualitative descriptive approach was applied, using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 15 purposively selected pregnant women, as well as 17 midwives offering antenatal health-care services to pregnant women in the 12 selected healthcare clinics. Qualitative data were analysed using a thematic content analysis. To develop the physical activity strategy for the promotion of prenatal physical activity practice, three frameworks were applied, namely the Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT), the Political, Economic Growth, Socio-Cultural, Technological, Laws and Environmental (PESTLE), and, lastly, the Build, Overcome, Explore and Minimise (BOEM) analytical frameworks. To facilitate the validation of the strategy, the findings were additionally analysed, after which, appropriate intervention strategies promoting prenatal physical activity were developed by again using the SWOT and PESTLE analytical strategic frameworks. This process involved a purposive sampling of seven experts with knowledge of and a proven academic and scholarly background in prenatal physical activity and maternal health. Next, the developed physical activity strategy was presented to various stakeholders, which included six primary healthcare managers, two midwives, and pregnant women purposively selected in each of the 12 chosen antenatal health clinics for the validation process. The stakeholders discussed, deliberated on, and provided comments and opinions of the feasibility and implementation of the developed prenatal physical activity for promotion of physical activity practices in the Eastern Cape Province. Results The findings of this particular study demonstrated low levels of prenatal physical activity among pregnant women, and, further indicated that the most preferred form of activity was light-intensity and household activities. Only 278 of the women (25.7%) met recommendations for prenatal activity (≥150 min moderate intensity exercise per week). The average time spent in moderate–vigorous physical activity was 151.6 min (95% CI: 147.2– 156.0). Most of the women participated in light exercises with a mean of 65.9% (95% CI: 64.8–67.0), and 47.6% (95% CI: 46.3–48.9) participated in household activities. The majority of the women did not receive physical activity advice during prenatal care sessions (64.7%). Lower age (<19 years) (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 0.3; CI: 0.16–0.76), semi-urban residence (AOR = 0.8; CI: 0.55–1.03), lower educational level (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.20–0.71), unemployment (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.29–0.77) and nulliparity (AOR = 0.6; CI: 0.28–1.31) were negatively associated with prenatal physical activity, while prenatal physical activity was positively associated with starting physical activity in the first trimester (AOR = 1.9; CI: 1.06–3.31) compared to other trimesters. In addition, the pregnant women were aware of the safety (88.2%) and benefits of physical activity for both mother and baby (79.6%), improved labour and delivery (93.1%), promote energy (89.0%), and should be discontinued when tired (76.6%). However, they also held the contradictory belief that pregnancy is “a time to rest” (56.5%). Furthermore, the most common sources of information about prenatal physical activity were the media, television, the radio and Internet-based websites (70.2%). Most women affirmed that prenatal physical activity reduced infant weight (61.4%), lessen moodiness (90.4), decreased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (92.9%), pregnancy-induced hypertension (92.5%), and complications at birth (97.8%), while common negative perceptions included musculoskeletal discomfort (82.7%), and back pain (85.7%). The majority of women indicated that prenatal physical activity improved self-image (95.7%), sleep patterns (94.2%), and respiratory function (95.8%). The results from the quantitative data revealed that the major modifiable barriers to prenatal physical activity were tiredness (73.3%), lack of advice from healthcare professionals (nurses/midwives) (64.7%), low energy (64.5%), and non-accessibility to physical activity facilities (63.0%). The results were confirmed in the qualitative data, based on the Ecological Model, in which women also mentioned tiredness, work and household responsibilities, a lack of motivation, and the lack of physical activity advice and information on the relevant recommendations and guidelines. Overall, 62.4% women had high knowledge regarding prenatal physical activity; and half of the women showed a positive attitude toward it (50.1%). Whilst participants had knowledge of other types of antenatal exercises, 80.9% of the women had no knowledge of swimming exercise. Negative attitudes towards physical activity included the feeling of tiredness (67.7%), lack of interest (64.8%), and inadequate information on physical activity (59.5%). In addition, the study highlighted that midwives rarely educate and counsel pregnant women about prenatal physical activity during scheduled antenatal visits, which was attributed largely to the shortage of midwives handling many responsibilities at clinics. Nevertheless, the midwives did express a willingness to provide effective physical activity education and counselling on prenatal physical activity, if supported by relevant training and workshops. Furthermore, they further recommended the use of the Mom Connect application, which is a technological device designed by the National Department of Health, to distribute relevant information about maternal and child health. The prenatal physical activity strategies developed to address the above-mentioned and other barriers associated with prenatal physical activity include the use of scientific and technological innovations to provide basic information on prenatal physical activity to pregnant women by means of Mom Connect, and, by collaborating with the various cellphone and network companies in South Africa. Another strategy was to integrate prenatal physical activity training into the curricula of the existing higher institutions of learning that provide teaching of maternal health in the Eastern Cape Province. Additional strategies included the documentation and subsequent clarification of misconceptions about the safety concerns often associated with prenatal physical activity by making the documents accessible to all women at the clinics in the form of a small pamphlet or booklet. Lastly, stakeholders suggested that the government offer periodic prenatal physical activity campaigns, which should be presented in local community town halls and clinics and by other stakeholders to address the current lack of awareness and effectively eliminate misrepresentations and falsehoods around the safety of prenatal physical activity within geographical setting of the Eastern Cape Province. Conclusion Despite the advantages of prenatal physical activity practices, most pregnant women in South Africa do not participate in moderate-intensity physical activity. Notably, while women perceive prenatal physical activity as beneficial to both mother and baby, such theoretical knowledge is not easily translatable into practice. The predominant sources of information on prenatal physical activity are the television, the radio, and other media, which may be potentially misleading or contradictory to evidence-based physical activity practice. Furthermore, tiredness, a lack of time, work and household responsibilities, and a lack of motivation were major modifiable barriers to prenatal physical activity by the women. In addition, pregnant women rarely receive information on prenatal physical activity. Consequently, to address the needs of the pregnant women as highlighted in this study, a prenatal physical activity intervention strategy was developed and validated by key stakeholders to promote prenatal physical activity and exercise practice among women, taken in account the local context. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
- Authors: Okafor, Uchenna Benedine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0435-2041
- Date: 2022-03
- Subjects: Prenatal care , Exercise for pregnant women
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22919 , vital:53218
- Description: Research has proven that prenatal physical activity practice is associated with multiple health benefits; however, most women in South Africa rarely participate in prenatal physical activity. In contrast to more developed countries, there is dearth of research focusing specifically on prenatal physical activity and exercise among South African women. Nevertheless, in order to effectively, and strategically promote such prenatal activity, such information is important to plan for an intervention strategy. The main aim of this study was to assess the level, patterns, and associated factors of prenatal physical activity; beliefs, knowledge, attitudes, perceived benefits, and sources of information women received during pregnancy; and, furthermore, to develop an effective and relevant intervention strategy to facilitate the participation in this particular activity in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods The study was a mixed-method, cross-sectional study design with both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analyses. The sequential explanatory design was adopted to merge and mix different datasets to be collected and analysed. The quantitative data involved a convenient sample of 1082 pregnant women in 12 randomly selected primary healthcare clinics offering antenatal health services in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape. The Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire was interviewer-administered to women at each antenatal health clinic on pre-specified days, in a designated room allocated to the primary researcher by the health facility manager. The descriptive statistics were frequency distribution, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Furthermore, the bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed on two categories of participants, namely inactive or active, to determine the factors affecting prenatal physical activity behaviour. Furthermore, multiple logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between physical activity and the predictor variables during pregnancy. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were applied to estimate factors associated with physical activity levels, and the associations between prenatal physical activity levels and socio-demographic, lifestyle, and obstetrics characteristics were determined using a chi-squared analyses. The significance level was set at p = 0.05. In addition, a qualitative descriptive approach was applied, using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 15 purposively selected pregnant women, as well as 17 midwives offering antenatal health-care services to pregnant women in the 12 selected healthcare clinics. Qualitative data were analysed using a thematic content analysis. To develop the physical activity strategy for the promotion of prenatal physical activity practice, three frameworks were applied, namely the Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT), the Political, Economic Growth, Socio-Cultural, Technological, Laws and Environmental (PESTLE), and, lastly, the Build, Overcome, Explore and Minimise (BOEM) analytical frameworks. To facilitate the validation of the strategy, the findings were additionally analysed, after which, appropriate intervention strategies promoting prenatal physical activity were developed by again using the SWOT and PESTLE analytical strategic frameworks. This process involved a purposive sampling of seven experts with knowledge of and a proven academic and scholarly background in prenatal physical activity and maternal health. Next, the developed physical activity strategy was presented to various stakeholders, which included six primary healthcare managers, two midwives, and pregnant women purposively selected in each of the 12 chosen antenatal health clinics for the validation process. The stakeholders discussed, deliberated on, and provided comments and opinions of the feasibility and implementation of the developed prenatal physical activity for promotion of physical activity practices in the Eastern Cape Province. Results The findings of this particular study demonstrated low levels of prenatal physical activity among pregnant women, and, further indicated that the most preferred form of activity was light-intensity and household activities. Only 278 of the women (25.7%) met recommendations for prenatal activity (≥150 min moderate intensity exercise per week). The average time spent in moderate–vigorous physical activity was 151.6 min (95% CI: 147.2– 156.0). Most of the women participated in light exercises with a mean of 65.9% (95% CI: 64.8–67.0), and 47.6% (95% CI: 46.3–48.9) participated in household activities. The majority of the women did not receive physical activity advice during prenatal care sessions (64.7%). Lower age (<19 years) (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 0.3; CI: 0.16–0.76), semi-urban residence (AOR = 0.8; CI: 0.55–1.03), lower educational level (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.20–0.71), unemployment (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.29–0.77) and nulliparity (AOR = 0.6; CI: 0.28–1.31) were negatively associated with prenatal physical activity, while prenatal physical activity was positively associated with starting physical activity in the first trimester (AOR = 1.9; CI: 1.06–3.31) compared to other trimesters. In addition, the pregnant women were aware of the safety (88.2%) and benefits of physical activity for both mother and baby (79.6%), improved labour and delivery (93.1%), promote energy (89.0%), and should be discontinued when tired (76.6%). However, they also held the contradictory belief that pregnancy is “a time to rest” (56.5%). Furthermore, the most common sources of information about prenatal physical activity were the media, television, the radio and Internet-based websites (70.2%). Most women affirmed that prenatal physical activity reduced infant weight (61.4%), lessen moodiness (90.4), decreased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (92.9%), pregnancy-induced hypertension (92.5%), and complications at birth (97.8%), while common negative perceptions included musculoskeletal discomfort (82.7%), and back pain (85.7%). The majority of women indicated that prenatal physical activity improved self-image (95.7%), sleep patterns (94.2%), and respiratory function (95.8%). The results from the quantitative data revealed that the major modifiable barriers to prenatal physical activity were tiredness (73.3%), lack of advice from healthcare professionals (nurses/midwives) (64.7%), low energy (64.5%), and non-accessibility to physical activity facilities (63.0%). The results were confirmed in the qualitative data, based on the Ecological Model, in which women also mentioned tiredness, work and household responsibilities, a lack of motivation, and the lack of physical activity advice and information on the relevant recommendations and guidelines. Overall, 62.4% women had high knowledge regarding prenatal physical activity; and half of the women showed a positive attitude toward it (50.1%). Whilst participants had knowledge of other types of antenatal exercises, 80.9% of the women had no knowledge of swimming exercise. Negative attitudes towards physical activity included the feeling of tiredness (67.7%), lack of interest (64.8%), and inadequate information on physical activity (59.5%). In addition, the study highlighted that midwives rarely educate and counsel pregnant women about prenatal physical activity during scheduled antenatal visits, which was attributed largely to the shortage of midwives handling many responsibilities at clinics. Nevertheless, the midwives did express a willingness to provide effective physical activity education and counselling on prenatal physical activity, if supported by relevant training and workshops. Furthermore, they further recommended the use of the Mom Connect application, which is a technological device designed by the National Department of Health, to distribute relevant information about maternal and child health. The prenatal physical activity strategies developed to address the above-mentioned and other barriers associated with prenatal physical activity include the use of scientific and technological innovations to provide basic information on prenatal physical activity to pregnant women by means of Mom Connect, and, by collaborating with the various cellphone and network companies in South Africa. Another strategy was to integrate prenatal physical activity training into the curricula of the existing higher institutions of learning that provide teaching of maternal health in the Eastern Cape Province. Additional strategies included the documentation and subsequent clarification of misconceptions about the safety concerns often associated with prenatal physical activity by making the documents accessible to all women at the clinics in the form of a small pamphlet or booklet. Lastly, stakeholders suggested that the government offer periodic prenatal physical activity campaigns, which should be presented in local community town halls and clinics and by other stakeholders to address the current lack of awareness and effectively eliminate misrepresentations and falsehoods around the safety of prenatal physical activity within geographical setting of the Eastern Cape Province. Conclusion Despite the advantages of prenatal physical activity practices, most pregnant women in South Africa do not participate in moderate-intensity physical activity. Notably, while women perceive prenatal physical activity as beneficial to both mother and baby, such theoretical knowledge is not easily translatable into practice. The predominant sources of information on prenatal physical activity are the television, the radio, and other media, which may be potentially misleading or contradictory to evidence-based physical activity practice. Furthermore, tiredness, a lack of time, work and household responsibilities, and a lack of motivation were major modifiable barriers to prenatal physical activity by the women. In addition, pregnant women rarely receive information on prenatal physical activity. Consequently, to address the needs of the pregnant women as highlighted in this study, a prenatal physical activity intervention strategy was developed and validated by key stakeholders to promote prenatal physical activity and exercise practice among women, taken in account the local context. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-03
Perceptions of patients about poor attitudes and behaviours of midwives in the maternity sections in a public hospital of East London South Africa
- Authors: Lawrence, N W
- Date: 2019-11
- Subjects: Midwives , Maternity nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23521 , vital:58085
- Description: Midwives are largely responsible for maternity care in hospitals. As such, they play a significant role in ensuring the health and well-being of pregnant women and newborn babies. To perform that duty effectively, midwives need to be professional in their conduct. However, there are reports that midwives have displayed poor attitudes and behaviour in South Africa. The main research question was “what are the perceptions of patients about attitudes and behaviours of midwives in the maternity section in a public hospital in East London, South Africa?” The aim of the study was to explore the reasons behind poor attitudes and behaviour of midwives in midwifery practice and suggest interventions that can be introduced to promote professional attitudes and behaviour by midwives in a public hospital in East London. This study used a qualitative approach to collect data. The research instrument that was used for this study was semi-structured interviews. The sample of 20 participants which was purposively selected consisted of women that have used the East London public hospital maternity section. Data was collected using coding and themes emanating from the data generated. Midwives are valued and play a very significant role in providing maternal care. Be that as it may, midwives exhibit poor attitudes and behaviours such as being rude, lack sympathy, and lack of empathy. On the other hand, midwives act professionally and are supportive of patients. There is, therefore, a need for the provision of professional etiquette training services, stress counseling, use of work development strategies and performance management systems, technical training, linkage system of traditional and modern midwives, and the use of internet platforms to increase interaction between midwives and those that need maternity care services. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-11
- Authors: Lawrence, N W
- Date: 2019-11
- Subjects: Midwives , Maternity nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23521 , vital:58085
- Description: Midwives are largely responsible for maternity care in hospitals. As such, they play a significant role in ensuring the health and well-being of pregnant women and newborn babies. To perform that duty effectively, midwives need to be professional in their conduct. However, there are reports that midwives have displayed poor attitudes and behaviour in South Africa. The main research question was “what are the perceptions of patients about attitudes and behaviours of midwives in the maternity section in a public hospital in East London, South Africa?” The aim of the study was to explore the reasons behind poor attitudes and behaviour of midwives in midwifery practice and suggest interventions that can be introduced to promote professional attitudes and behaviour by midwives in a public hospital in East London. This study used a qualitative approach to collect data. The research instrument that was used for this study was semi-structured interviews. The sample of 20 participants which was purposively selected consisted of women that have used the East London public hospital maternity section. Data was collected using coding and themes emanating from the data generated. Midwives are valued and play a very significant role in providing maternal care. Be that as it may, midwives exhibit poor attitudes and behaviours such as being rude, lack sympathy, and lack of empathy. On the other hand, midwives act professionally and are supportive of patients. There is, therefore, a need for the provision of professional etiquette training services, stress counseling, use of work development strategies and performance management systems, technical training, linkage system of traditional and modern midwives, and the use of internet platforms to increase interaction between midwives and those that need maternity care services. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019-11
Discovering the root of obesity through the symbology of food: a historical and cultural exploration
- Authors: Jacobs, Nadine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Obesity -- Psychological aspects , Obesity -- Research Behavior modification Psychophysiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17569 , vital:28379
- Description: Obesity is fast becoming a worldwide issue with detrimental health consequences. The increasing availability of effective nutritional strategies, physical exercise regimes and behaviour modification approaches to weight loss do not offer a satisfactory explanation as to why only two to five percent of people who have lost weight successfully manage to retain the weight loss over the long term. By referring to several concepts on how the symbols of food originate in the unconscious and end up becoming the unconscious impetus for conscious thought and dietary behaviours relating to food, the complexity of food pathologies, with specific reference to obesity is explored. The study presents a narrative review of the available literature on symbols in a variety of cultural-historical contexts through the theoretical lens of the psychoanalytic framework. The study contributed to the current treatment approaches to obesity, by highlighting how the unconscious content of the psyche serve to compromise conscious efforts to address the problem of obesity. Also, the need for further research into the development of a model that, by incorporating the psychoanalytic approach to obesity, will support the long-term success of weight loss intervention by addressing the underlying issues, is emphasised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Discovering the root of obesity through the symbology of food: a historical and cultural exploration
- Authors: Jacobs, Nadine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Obesity -- Psychological aspects , Obesity -- Research Behavior modification Psychophysiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17569 , vital:28379
- Description: Obesity is fast becoming a worldwide issue with detrimental health consequences. The increasing availability of effective nutritional strategies, physical exercise regimes and behaviour modification approaches to weight loss do not offer a satisfactory explanation as to why only two to five percent of people who have lost weight successfully manage to retain the weight loss over the long term. By referring to several concepts on how the symbols of food originate in the unconscious and end up becoming the unconscious impetus for conscious thought and dietary behaviours relating to food, the complexity of food pathologies, with specific reference to obesity is explored. The study presents a narrative review of the available literature on symbols in a variety of cultural-historical contexts through the theoretical lens of the psychoanalytic framework. The study contributed to the current treatment approaches to obesity, by highlighting how the unconscious content of the psyche serve to compromise conscious efforts to address the problem of obesity. Also, the need for further research into the development of a model that, by incorporating the psychoanalytic approach to obesity, will support the long-term success of weight loss intervention by addressing the underlying issues, is emphasised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017