Theses and Dissertations
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Browsing Theses and Dissertations by Issue Date
Now showing 1 - 9 of 9
Results Per Page
Sort Options
Item Open Access Assessment of social work services towards addressing barriers to learning in public schools in Sibasa Circuit, Vhembe District(2023-10-05) Sikhitha, Tsireledzo; Mabasa, M. A.; Mamaleka, M. M.This study assessed social work services in addressing barriers to learning in public schools in Sibasa Circuit in Vhembe District. The study was conducted in two public secondary schools, with a focus on Grade 11 and 12 learners of the said circuit. The study was qualitative in nature and used an exploratory research design. The purposive sampling method was used to draw a sample from learners, educators, and social workers. Semi-structured individual interviews and focus groups were used to collect data, which was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that learners encountered the following barriers to learning: teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, bullying, peer pressure and poverty. It was found that those barriers to learning disturb learners as they cannot focus on school activities. The findings also revealed that social workers should offer social work services such as casework and group work to provide psychosocial counselling, and educational support in addressing barriers to learning. The researcher recommends that the Department of Basic Education appoint school social workers permanently to prevent and address barriers to learning experienced by learners.Item Open Access The Effects of the Foster-care Backlog on Prospective Beneficiaries in Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District: Limpopo Province(2024-09-06) Mafela, Livhuwani; Lekganyane, G. M.; Nemutandani, V. N.The goal of foster care is to ensure that children are provided with the necessary care and protection they are entitled to as children which is intended to allow them to , grow and develop in a safe and healthy environment. However, there is a backlog of applications presenting a severe challenge to the Department of Social Development, thus, negatively impacting the lives of its intended beneficiaries. The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the foster-care backlog on prospective beneficiaries in the Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province. A qualitative research approach was employed to achieve the above aim and to understand the participants’ perceptions. The objectives of the study were to explore the contributory factors for the non-placement of prospective beneficiaries on the foster-care grant system; to describe the views of prospectivebeneficiaries on foster-care applications’ backlog; to describe the effects of foster-care applications’ backlog on prospective beneficiaries; to recommend solutions that could address the foster-care backlog. The study employed an exploratory qualitative research design to understand the phenomenon under study. Data was collected through semi structured and unstructured interviews. Non-probability sampling was utilized as a sampling procedure in the study. Data was analyzed thematically guided by Creswell (2017). The study employed the systems theory as the theoretical framework, based on that it is preceded on the fact that individuals and families do not exist in isolation but within broader societal relationships; if one part of the system is interrupted; it affects the whole system. If children are not taken care of, it destabilizes society’s fabric, which might exacerbate social ills. The findings as per the participants responses highlighted that there is a lack of supervision on the other end leading to a backlog of unattended cases, It is evident that the social workers are not visible in supervision. Their difficulties to manage the foster care cases seems to be associated with a lack of resources, high caseload, and quality versus quantity in social services. The participants maintained that they relied largely on their other grants such as old age grant to make a living.Item Open Access The exploratory study of psychological experiences of female victims of gender-based violence in Sekhukhune District Municipality(2024-09-06) Murei, Takalani Patricia; Mabasa, M. A.; Mogorosi, L. D.; Budeli, N.Gender based violence in South Africa, (especially on women and young women), is increasing. There is significant increase in those women who are in relationship. However, such relations have strong correlation to the high rates of murder, rape and assault with intend to do grievous body harm, resulting in a high prevalence of women exposed to gender based violence. Social workers are mandated to provide psycho- social support to the victims of gender-based violence and their families. Alternatively, the Victim Empowerment programs Centers (VEP) implements support to victims and survivors of crimes including gender-based violence, as well as their families to deal with the impact of the incident which he/she has experience. VEP also assist victims with management of trauma and ensuring that victims are educated to identify the symptoms of post-traumatic stress as common practice in South Africa, is not without challenges. One significant challenge is the role of support systems within the community. The aim of the study was to explore the psychosocial experiences amongst women exposed to gender-based violence in rural areas of Sekhukhune District. Qualitative approach using an exploratory research design was employed. The population of the study was women who experienced gender-based violence living in rural areas of Sekhukhune District municipality who were attending Victim empowerment services at the Non- Governmental Organization.Convenience sampling was used to select ten (10) women who experienced gender-based violence. Semi-structured interviews, in-depth individual face to face interviews were used to better understand the psychosocial experiences of gender-based violence as well as the role played by the support system within the community which was analysed using thematic analysis.Item Embargo Evaluating The Utilization of Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Services at the University of Venda(2025-09-05) Mohla, Portia; Budeli, N. J.Employee assistance program services is one of the most intriguing developments in the practise of social work, which is aimed at addressing issues that employees face in the workplace. Employers no longer advocate for leaving personal difficulties at home; instead, they now offer services that deal with problems that can impede job performance and satisfaction. This study focused on evaluating the utilization of employee assistance program services by employees of the University of Venda. The success of an employee assistance programme is greatly influenced by the evaluation of such interventions. Continuous review is required to make sure that the EAP is pertinent to the demands of the targeted demographic. The findings of such an evaluation will include suggestions for what needs to be changed or modified. The study was conducted at the university of Venda, South Africa. A mixed methodological approach was employed for the study. The population in the study were employees at the University of Venda. A sample of 30 participants were selected from the following categories, academics’, administration, maintenance, and support. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected, the quantitative data was collected using questionnaires and the qualitative data was collected using a face-to-face individual interviews. Following data collection, thematic content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative and the quantitative data was presented in graphs and tables. The study revealed that employees at the university of Venda are utilizing the services of the EAP, however the EAP is not fully utilized as employees mostly use the employee wellness days benefit compared to other services.Item Embargo Caregiver Challenges in Caring for Children Living with Intellectual Challenges: a Case of Three Centres in Thulamela Local Municipality(2025-09-05) Mugovhoro, Talifhani; Baloyi, T. V.Intellectual disability poses a significant challenge on a global scale. This study aims to explore the challenges faced by caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities in daycare centres in Thulamela Local Municipality. The study adopted the qualitative approach, utilising an exploratory research design to achieve its objectives. Non-probability sampling, specifically the purposive sampling method, was employed to select participants based on specific criteria. A total of six caregivers from three identified daycare centres participated in the study. Data was gathered through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically. The ecosystem theory served as a framework for understanding the interactions between individuals and their environments. The findings revealed that caregivers encounter numerous challenges while providing care to children with intellectual disabilities. Key challenges identified included health issues, low income and a lack of formal training. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems to assist caregivers in managing their responsibilities effectively.Item Embargo Mourning rituals and their psychosocial and rights implications among black middle-aged widows in Collins Chabane Local Municipality(2026-05-19) Hlongwane, Cynthia; Sekgobela, T.Mourning rituals remain widely practiced and are often experienced as meaningful and a burden by widows in South Africa. This study explores the multifaceted impacts of mourning rituals among black middle-aged widows in Collins Chabane Municipality, Vhembe District, and Limpopo Province. The study sought to examine the nature of mourning rituals, assess their social, psychological, economic, and rights-associated effects, and determine culturally respectful responses. The study employed a qualitative research approach and an exploratory design. The study used a non-probability purposive sampling method to recruit 15 Tsonga-widows belonging to the VA Tsonga ethnic group aged 40-59 who had completed mourning for at least 2 years. The semi-structured interviews were conducted in Xitsonga and English, and the data were analysed thematically following the six phases of Braun and Clarke. The study ensured rigor through audit trail, reflexivity, thick descriptions, systematic design, and peer debriefing. Widows described core practices such as prescribed attire, personalised utensils, sitting/seclusion, proof-of-innocence tests, head shaving, cleansing, movement restrictions, and unveiling. The reported effects of mourning rituals included depressed moods, disrupted grieving, constrained religious participation, traumatic memories, social exclusion, surveillance, and financial strain, mainly linked with gender norms and concerns for human rights (privacy, equality, freedom of movement, and dignity). To mitigate harm, some women drew on peer support, religious beliefs, and negotiated modifications. While mourning is essential for cultural beliefs, practices, meaning, and belonging, coercion and harmful practices undermine the well-being and the rights of widows. The study recommends a culturally competent rights-based social work model, including trauma-informed counselling, early bereavement triage, and mediation with faith leaders and elders to adapt practices.Item Open Access Exploring the effects of occupational related stress on employees: A case of selected company in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province(2026-05-19) Netshitanzwani, Ronewa; Sekgobela, T.; Sibisi, L.Occupational stress is a global concern and a significant threat to the well-being of employees and their mental health. Employees across different professions continue to experience occupational-related stress that has destructive consequences for themselves, their families, clients, and employers. Despite attempts to address occupational-related stress, employees continue to suffer significantly under their occupational obligations. Occupational stress is a growing problem that affects every employee across professions. Employees are complaining about toxic occupational environments that involve excessive working hours, burnout, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Occupational stress arises when the demands of the occupational environment exceed employee’s capacities and their ability to cope. The aim of the study was to explore the effects of occupational-related stress on employee’s mental health: A case of selected company in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative research approach, with an exploratory design, to gain an in-depth and insightful understanding of the phenomenon. The population consisted of 15 purposively selected employees representing diverse demographic and educational backgrounds. Data was collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews to ensure inclusivity. The interview guide served as the data collection instrument for the study, while ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation, were strictly observed. The study employed non-probability sampling to recruit participants. The ecological approach was suitable and employed to provide a foundation and background to the study. Occupationally related stress was found to produce interconnected mental health outcomes, including anxiety, depression symptoms, sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, irritability, and cognitive strain. Common mental health issues, such as emotional fatigue and substance use, further highlighted the depth of occupational-related stress impact. Employees adopted both adaptive coping strategies, such as physical exercise, mindfulness, and social support, and maladaptive strategies, including avoidance and substance use. Leadership support and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) were accessed but often perceived as insufficient, with participants emphasizing the importance of face-to-face counselling. The study concluded that stronger wellness programs, effective workload management, and managerial training are essential to address occupational stress. Recommendations included providing on-site mental health support, promoting work-life balance, and introducing recreational and wellness activities to foster resilience and reduce stress.Item Embargo Psychosocial effects of gender-based violence on women survivors at Shayandima and Itsani villages in the Vhembe District of Limpopo, South Africa(2026-05-19) Shirinda, Themba Marcus; Mamaleka, M. M.; Sekgobela, T.Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant social and health concern that endangers women and undermines their psychosocial wellbeing. It is widely recognised as a global pandemic affecting South Africa at all levels: national, provincial, and local. This study focused on examining the psychosocial effects of gender-based violence on women survivors, with the aim of identifying ways to prevent further victimisation and improve support interventions.The study was conducted among women aged 35–50 years living in the Shayandima and Itsani villages within the Thulamela Local Municipality, in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative, exploratory research design was employed, and purposive sampling was used to select 13 participants who had experienced gender-based violence. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews guided by an interview schedule, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The study was guided by Feminist Theory, Trauma Theory, and Learned Helplessness Theory, which assisted in explaining the psychosocial impacts of gender-based violence, its contributing factors, and the delays in reporting cases to relevant authorities. Ethical considerations included confidentiality, informed consent, voluntary participation, avoidance of harm, and protection of participants’ rights throughout the study. The findings revealed that gender-based violence resulted in multiple psychosocial effects, including emotional distress, low self-esteem, social isolation, fear, psychological trauma, and feelings of neglect by service providers following abuse. Participants further highlighted the need for harsher penalties for offenders, increased community awareness, and improved education programmes addressing gender-based violence and its psychosocial consequences.This study contributes to the field of Social Work by providing context-specific insights into the psychosocial experiences of women survivors of gender-based violence in rural communities. The findings offer practical recommendations for strengthening support services, enhancing intervention strategies, and preventing re-victimisation among affected women.Item Embargo Effects of gender-based violence on young adults within their private and public spaces in Limpopo Province, Mopani District, Maruleng Municipality(2026-05-19) Seokoma, Kota Hope; Mamaleka, M. M.; Nemutandani, V.Gender-based violence is a pandemic that affects a person’s well-being and self-development; it has serious social, emotional, and economic effects. Through developmental social work, social workers are well-positioned to assist victims of GBV, provide counselling and support services, and advocate for holistic healing and recovery for survivors. However, young adults receive less support and attention during social work interventions. The study was approved by the University of Venda Research Ethics Committee to ensure adherence to professional and ethical standards before it commenced. The committee also issued informed consent to protect participants from physical and psychological harm, maintain privacy, and ensure informed consent. The researcher obtained permission from the Station Commander and Center Managers to conduct the study on their premises. The study is qualitative in nature, aiming to explore and have an in-depth understanding of the effects of gender-based violence on young adults. The study employed a phenomenological research design comprising the study sample of 15 participants who had been exposed to gender-based violence in their private and public spaces in Mopani District, in the Maruleng Municipality. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect data face-to-face with the participants. A thematic data analysis method was used to analyse the collected data. The findings revealed that young adults exposed to GBV in their private and public spaces are aware of measures to assist, but have little knowledge, are hopeless, and lack trust in service providers. The findings also revealed that service providers in centers, institutions, and NGOs need more training on gender-based violence to have a better understanding and knowledge of how to effectively render support services to the survivors of GBV.