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Welcome to the University of Venda Institutional Repository, an open digital archive of the research output of the University of Venda. Univen IR contains theses and dissertations, research papers as well as conference papers. For further information and assistance please contact Mr Keith Malabi at +27 15 9628564 or +27 15 962 8314 during office hours

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An exploratory study on the psychosocial experiences of young adults raised by stepparents in the Capricorn District, Limpopo

(2026-05-19) Maloba, Esna Mashoto; Manganye, L.; Negota, T.

Children raised by stepparents face unique psychosocial development and mental health challenges stemming from the complexities of blended family dynamics. This study delved into these issues, particularly focusing on the context of the Capricorn District. Employing Family Systems Theory and qualitative research approach, the research sought to unravel the intricacies of stepfamily dynamics. In exploring the psychosocial development and mental health challenges of young adults raised by stepparents, a phenomenological research design was employed to delve into the lived experiences of participants and understand their mental health perspectives. Participants were selected using a non-probability method, specifically employing purposive and snowball sampling techniques to gather a diverse range of perspectives. The data collection process involved an interview guide, allowing for both flexibility and structure in eliciting rich narrative accounts from participants. Thematic analysis was applied to the collected data, providing a systematic approach to identifying patterns and themes relevant to the psychosocial wellbeing of young adults in stepfamily settings. The study's key findings showed that initial interactions with stepparents often led to feelings of emotional dislocation, identity challenges, and difficulties establishing secure attachments. Additionally, the effectiveness of communication and the perceived equity within the stepfamily significantly impacted on the participants' long-term self-esteem, mental wellbeing, and their capacity to build trusting relationships.

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The Strategies to Mitigate Gender-Based Violence Amongst Married Women in the Rural Village of Thulamela Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

(2026-05-19) Mavhungu, Maanda; Radzilani, M.; Magadani, H.; Mushwana, M.

Gender-based violence is an international epidemic, with South Africa leading the way in the presentation of its various manifestations. Every person, regardless of class, culture, colour, or literacy level, is impacted by gender-based violence (GBV), with women being the most vulnerable victims. It had long since infringed upon women's rights. The study aimed to explore the strategies to mitigate gender-based violence among married women in the rural village of Thulamela local municipality, located in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The population was particularly vulnerable due to the intersection of traditional cultural norms, limited access to resources, and socio-economic challenges that often exacerbated the prevalence of gender-based violence. By focusing on this specific group, the study sought to identify effective, context-sensitive interventions to protect and empower women in these communities. The study was exploratory and qualitative. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to sample 15 participants. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Ethical considerations were adhered to. The findings revealed that gender-based violence among married women in the rural village of Thulamela Local Municipality was prevalent and manifested in physical, emotional, psychological, and economic forms. Contributing factors included patriarchal cultural norms, unequal power relations, economic dependency, alcohol abuse, limited access to shelters, and slow legal processes. Existing mitigation strategies were found to be insufficient in effectively protecting women and preventing continued abuse. The study recommended strengthening support services by establishing accessible shelters and counselling services within rural communities. It was further recommended that legal processes related to gender-based violence cases be expedited, and that community-based awareness programmes involving traditional leaders, churches, and men be intensified to address harmful cultural norms and promote gender equality.

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Impact of childhood sexual abuse in adult intimate relationships in Limpopo province, Vhembe District

(2026-05-19) Mbengeni, Tshilidzi; Radzilani, M.; Negota, T. D.

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a widespread trauma that has a lasting effect on the mental and emotional well-being of survivors, greatly impacting their intimate relationships as adults. The purpose of this study was to investigate how intimate relationships in adulthood are affected by childhood sexual assault. A phenomenological study design was used in conjunction with a qualitative research methodology. The researcher employed convenience and snowball sampling techniques because the subject is delicate. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, and to analyze the data, thematic analysis was employed. Additionally, trustworthiness metrics, including transferability and believability, were applied. Ethics were adhered to, including no harm to the participants, informed consent, and confidentiality. The sample size was 13 participants, consisting of both males and females. The findings revealed that most of the survivors struggle with trust and communication, amongst others, when they are in adult intimate relationships. While they are in those relationships, there are coping mechanisms that they use to cope, which include journaling of emotions, religious activities, and others that contribute positively to their recovery. Besides the positive ones, some apply short-term coping mechanisms that may have negative consequences; this includes isolation and alcohol use. Additionally, the study found that in rural areas, there is still stigma existing around mental health and a huge shortage of intervention centres for those who have suffered from trauma.

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Cultural Competence Training and Its Influence on the Service Delivery and Professional Conduct of Psychological Health Workers in Limpopo Province Hospitals

(2026-05-19) Singo, Mukovhe; Mphephu, K. E.; Baloyi, V.

Cultural competence training has increasingly been recognized as an essential component in improving the quality of psychological health care services in culturally diverse settings. This study examined the influence of cultural competence training on the service delivery and professional conduct of psychological health workers in public hospitals in Limpopo Province. The study aimed to assess how such training enhances cultural awareness, communication, and the ability of professionals to provide culturally responsive care. A qualitative research approach with an exploratory design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 psychological health workers, including psychologists, registered counsellors, and psychometrists. The data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and insights related to participants’ experiences and perceptions of cultural competence training. The findings revealed that cultural competence training contributes significantly to improved communication, increased cultural awareness, and enhanced patient-provider relationships. Participants indicated that training promotes respect for diverse cultural beliefs and improves professional conduct in clinical settings. However, challenges such as limited training opportunities, language barriers, and lack of institutional support were identified as barriers to effective implementation. The study contributes to the understanding of how cultural competence training can improve mental health service delivery in culturally diverse contexts. It further highlights the need for structured and continuous training programmes to enhance the effectiveness of psychological health workers and to promote equitable and culturally responsive healthcare services.

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The lived experiences related to the mental health of women who separated with their partners during pregnancy, in Cottondale, Mpumalanga, South Africa

(2026-05-19) Thema, Jeaneth Reanetse; Radzilani, M.; Magadani, H. B.

Partner separation during pregnancy is a highly distressing experience that places many women at risk of emotional distress. Pregnancy is already a time of significant emotional change, and separation further increases the risk of mental health challenges. Despite this, limited research has explored the lived experiences of women affected in South Africa. This study explored the lived experiences related to the mental health of women who separated with their partners during pregnancy. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, a qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Purposive sampling was used to recruit eleven black women aged between 20 to 39 in Mpumalanga, who had separated with their partners during pregnancy. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings indicated that pregnancy disclosure often marked a turning point in relationships, with partners initially showing acceptance before withdrawing or rejecting the pregnancy. Participants experienced pressure to terminate, followed by encouragement from family members to continue with pregnancy. Relationships frequently ended through communication cut-off and partner withdrawal, leaving women to continue pregnancy without partner involvement. Separation during pregnancy negatively affected women’s mental health, resulting in emotional distress and stress. Social support from family and friends played an important role in buffering these challenges. Despite emotional difficulties, participants maintained strong emotional bonds with their children and used coping strategies to protect the mother-child relationship. The study concludes that partner separation during pregnancy poses risks to women’s mental health. However, social support and personal resilience promote emotional survival and maternal functioning.