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Item Embargo The Psychosocial Well-being of Nurses and Psychologists in Africa: A Scoping Review(2026-05-19) Makhobela, Amukelani; Makhado, L.; Mushwana, M. D.Introduction: Healthcare systems in Africa have prioritised healthcare recipients, and little emphasis has been placed on the well-being of healthcare professionals, as reflected in the limited available literature on the scope of healthcare professionals' well-being. The present study examines studies conducted in African countries, with a focus on the psychosocial well-being of nurses and psychologists. To answer the research question: What is the psychosocial well-being of nurses and psychologists in the African context? The study contributes to improving working environments within healthcare settings, enhancing pandemic readiness, and enhancing the overall quality of life of healthcare workers in African nations. Methods: A scoping review has been conducted using the frameworks established by Arksey and O'Malley (2005) and Levac et al. (2010). A comprehensive literature search has been conducted, covering publications from 2014 to 2024, across the following databases: PubMed, EBSCOhost, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, institutional repositories, and other grey literature sources, as well as a hand search of the reference lists of included studies. Studies included were assessed for eligibility by two independent reviewers. Findings: Fifteen studies are included in this review. Most research on nurses' well-being originates in South Africa, with limited representation from other African countries. There is a notably high psychosocial toll among nurses in healthcare settings with expressions of burnout, severe depressive symptoms, PTSD, anxiety and other stress-related disorders coupled with compassion fatigue. Conclusion: There is an absence of an effective, unified intervention programme(s) to promote nurses’ psychosocial well-being. Irregularities and disparities are highlighted within the organisational structure of most healthcare settings in Africa. There is an urgent need among stakeholders to implement intervention strategies among healthcare workers to support their psychological health and social needs.Item Embargo Factors Contributing to Rejection of Mental Health Care Users by their Family Members: A Case Study at Hayani Psychiatric Hospital, Limpopo(2026-05-19) Sinthumule, Tshiwela Selina; Takalani, J.; Mushwana, M.Introduction: This study explored factors contributing to rejection of MHCUs after observing MHCUs after they have been treated and rehabilitated. The researcher was motivated to investigate this issue after observing that many MHCUs re in Hayani Psychiatric hospital even after they were ready for discharge as their families refused to take them back. Previous studies have shown that having a family member with a mental illness affects the entire family in multiple ways. Families often experience physical, social, psychological, and financial difficulties, leading some to feel more at ease when their relatives remain in hospital. The study aimed to identify the factors that contribute to family rejection of MHCUs. The specific objectives were to explore the reasons for rejection, describe its impact on family members, examine the relationship between families and MHCUs identify the support families expect from the hospital when MHCUs are ready for leave of absence(LOA) or discharge, and explore resources or community programmes that could assist families in managing the challenges leading to rejection. Methods An exploratory case study design was used within a qualitative research approach, guided by the parental Acceptance-Rejection theory (Rhohner et al., 2012).A purposive sampling strategy was used to select 15 family members who had close contact with MHCUs. Data was collected through semi-structured interview and analysed using thematic content analysis. Ethical consideration, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly followed. Results and discussion The findings revealed five key factors contributing to rejection of MHCUs by their families: physical, behavioural, social, psychological, and financial factors. Based on this findings, the study made recommendations for the Department of Health, the Department of Social Development, and policy makers to address the challenges faced by families of MHCUs.Item Embargo An exploratory study regarding Gender-Based Violence among men in Alexandra Township, Gauteng Province(2026-05-19) Racheku, Tebogo Jacqueline; Mushwana, M. D.Gender-based violence (GBV) is a widespread human rights violation affecting individuals worldwide. Although GBV against men is less frequently discussed, it remains a reality. Social media has increased awareness of GBV, especially in South Africa, where it occurs in all nine provinces. This study focused on exploring gender-based violence among men in Alexandra Township, Gauteng Province. It was a qualitative and exploratory study. Data were collected through an interview schedule with participants, using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The main objectives were to explore men's experiences with gender-based violence, to identify the impact of GBV among men, to examine the challenges men face in their experience with GBV and to understand the coping strategies they employ in dealing with GBV. The researcher employed thematic analysis to organize and interpret the data. Findings reveal that men also experience GBV from female partners and face various forms of abuse, including sexual, physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Challenges reported by men include stigma, lack of support from family, community and police. Many men do not report abuse due to fear of shame and judgment. The study recommended that the government and law enforcement agencies should address GBV cases involving men. The government and academic institutions must decolonize the stereotype that men are solely perpetrators of GBV. Policies should be developed to protect and prioritize men as victims. Such measures could help break the shame associated with this issue and challenge cultural norms that force men to endure GBV silently. When support systems are reinforced by law, men might feel more comfortable coming forward when they are abused.Item Embargo The mental health challenges faced by men regarding their spouse’s pregnancy in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province(2026-05-19) Sepoli, Hangandifhi; Radzilani, M.; Mushwana, M. D.; Mphephu, K.Pregnancy is a transformative period not only for women but also for their spouses. While the mental health of expectant mothers has been extensively studied, the mental health challenges faced by their spouses during this period remain underexplored, particularly in the context of rural South Africa. This study explored the mental health challenges encountered by men regarding their spouse’s pregnancy in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province This study is qualitative, and an exploratory research design was employed. Participants were selected through non-probability purposive sampling and data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed through thematic data analysis. Also detailed are the measures to ensure trustworthiness and the ethical principles adhered to during the conducting of this study. The results of this study outlined the psychological and emotional issues that males undergo when their spouses become pregnant, especially in rural areas where these problems may be exacerbated by prevailing customs and a lack of mental health resources. Developing gender-sensitive mental health support networks for expectant fathers was the main objective of the recommendations, which also stressed the significance of including men in pre-natal counselling. The results, hence, have identified the need to challenge social conventions and advance greater understanding of male mental health practices; designing of policies, and interventions aimed at both men and women in the setting of pregnancy. In South Africa and other rural communities, this study may add to larger conversations about mental health treatment and gender equality.Item Embargo 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.Item Embargo 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.Item Embargo 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.Item Embargo 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.Item Embargo 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.Item Embargo Exploring psychosocial factors that affect the mental health of undergraduate university students at a rural university in South Africa(2026-05-19) Vele, Ronald; Mushwana, M. D.; Radzilani, M.The mental health of university students is constantly tested as the students face different challenges, wherein, different factors affecting students’ mental health need to be understood in order to mitigate such grapples. This study explored psychosocial factors that affect the mental health of undergraduate university students at a rural university in South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative approach, and an exploratory research design was employed. The population consisted of undergraduate students who were registered at the University of Venda. Participants were selected by means of a purposive and snowball sampling procedure. Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were utilised as a method of collecting data from the participants. To ensure safety, the study adhered to ethical principles which were informed consent, confidentiality and right to privacy, voluntary participation, and anonymity during the period of this research. According to the findings of this study, social integration and campus climate, academic workload and adaptation, lack of funding and delayed allowances, inadequate infrastructure and facilities, favouritism, safety and institutional justice were discovered as the factors affecting the mental health of undergraduate students. Based on these findings, recommendations were made as a way to mitigate the challenges and factors that affect the mental health of undergraduate students.Item Embargo The effects of traumatic events, on the effective functioning of Police officers in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa(2025-05-16) Bakane, Nwamani Onicca; Talakani, F. J.; Mushwana, M. D.This study was about the effects of traumatic events on the effective functioning of police officers at Thohoyandou SAPS, Limpopo province, South Africa. The aim of the study was to explore the effects of traumatic events on the effective functioning of police officers at Thohoyandou SAPS, Limpopo province, South Africa. The study was qualitative in nature and used non-probability sampling. The subtype sampling method was purposive sampling. The study population was SAPS members in the Vhembe District, Thohoyandou and the study sample size was 10 SAPS members from Thohoyandou SAPS that was determined by data saturation. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and the data collection instrument was an interview guide. Furthermore, the study used exploratory research design to conduct the study and used interpretative phenomenology analysis to analyse the collected data. The study findings indicate that most SAPS members are suffering from psychological problems such as trauma and PTSD. The study recommended that SAPS members be subjected to debriefing and psychological counselling when they encounter traumatic incidents while on duty.Item Embargo Conceptualizations of ancestral calling: Symptoms of mental illness from the traditional healers’ viewpoint in villages around Tzaneen Municipality of Mopani District(2025-09-05) Machete, Tshikani; Takalani, J.; MphephuCultural beliefs about ancestral spirits and ancestral calling are widespread in Southern Africa. When an individual particularly Black/African has an ancestral calling they may sometimes present with symptoms similar to those of mental illness or disorder as outlined in the DSM (Statistical Diagnostic Manual). The discourse being that the perceived ‘sick person’ may need to go through the process of ukuthwasa (initiation) and become a traditional healer. Therefore, the study sought to explore the conceptualizations of ancestral calling: Presentation of mental illness from the traditional healers’ viewpoint. The research was conducted at villages around Tzaneen Municipality of Mopani District Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study had adopted a qualitative research approach. Because the study has focused on people’s knowledge and experiences, a qualitative approach has afforded the researcher to obtain in-depth information. An exploratory design was employed for the researcher to gain more insight and understanding into the phenomenon that was being researched. To select traditional healers, the study employed a qualitative research approach and used exploratory and phenomenological research designs. The participants of the study were sampled using purposive and convenience sampling. The African Perspective Theory served as the theoretical framework for this research. The population from which the sample was drawn for this study was all the traditional healers who went through the process of ukuthwasa, residing and currently practicing in the villages under Tzaneen Municipality of Mopani District in Limpopo province, South Africa A sample of twenty participants was considered as a target population. However, the researcher discontinued interviews with 15 participants due to data saturation. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collecting using an interview guide as an instrument, and data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality and the code of ethics to protect the rights of the participants were applied throughout the study. The findings of the study revealed that there are certain symptoms of mental illness that are present and regarded as a sign that an individual has an ancestral calling. According to the research findings these symptoms may be healed or treated only when the individual accepts the call at the beginning of the training process for one to become a traditional healer, this process is called Ukutwasa. This research will provide additional information in aspects of African Psychology for the trained mental health practitioner in the assessment and treatment of mental health care users who holds significant African traditional and cultural beliefs.Item Embargo Perceived stress and coping strategies among university students in South Africa: Development of guidelines for students to cope with stress(2025-09-05) Sibuyi, Xolile Marvia; Maphula, A.; Takalani. F. J.Stress has become a global pandemic and has a high prevalence amongst students studying at tertiary institutions worldwide. University years are most stressful for young people as they struggle to cope with challenges encountered during this period. The study investigated perceived stress and coping strategies among students at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) in South Africa. Additionally, it developed stress and coping guidelines for students registered at the institution of higher education. A mixed-method approach was used to explore the phenomena utilising an explanatory sequential design. The investigation was carried out in three phases, in the first phase quantitative data was collected using a cross-sectional survey. Random sampling was used (n=393). In the second phase qualitative data was collected and face-to face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview technique. Purposive sampling was used to select six staff members working within various student affairs support services and seven students who met the inclusion criteria for the study. The third phase of the research focused on the stress and coping guidelines for students at UMP. In quantitative research, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Brief COPE Inventory (BCI) were adopted as tools to gather data. Descriptive statistics were used to give a broad overview of data while the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was used to look at the linear relationship between specific variables. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was also used to look at differences between male and female group means. The study found that 73.5% of students experienced moderate stress levels. Additionally, 16.25% had high stress levels, while 10.25% reported low stress levels. Results showed that females experienced more stress as compared to males (p = 0.001); this was a significant result. There was no difference in coping skills across the male and female groups (p=0.75). The results indicated that 69.5% of students demonstrated adequate coping mechanisms, 16.5% exhibited poor coping mechanisms, and 14% had effective coping mechanisms. In Phase two: Thematic Analysis (TA) was used to analyse the qualitative data. Two major themes and four sub-themes that arose were: Social and lifestyle stress; Academic stress; Coping strategies used by the students; Appraisal based coping strategies; Problem focused coping strategies; Emotion focused coping strategies. The findings indicated that students experienced many stressors and used various coping strategies to deal with the stressors. Furthermore, twelve stress and coping guidelines for UMP students were developed from this research. The guidelines focused on stress screening, referral, access to support services, and student interventions. It is recommended that the student counselling centre strengthen its intervention strategies by focusing more on facilitating workshops and awareness campaigns that address stress and coping strategies. Additionally, the centre should provide training workshops for other student support services staff on screening and referring students to relevant departments. The study concludes that higher education institutions must improve to implement comprehensive programs for managing student stress.Item Embargo Development and validation of childhood trauma and exposure to violence intervention for African children in rural Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Tsheole, Petunia; Makhado, L.; Maphula, A.; Sepeng, N. V.Childhood trauma and exposure to violence remain pressing global concerns, particularly in low-resource settings where access to mental health services is limited. In South Africa’s rural regions, children are disproportionately affected by domestic violence, abuse, and community violence, yet trauma-informed interventions remain inadequate and culturally misaligned. This study seeks to develop and validate a trauma-informed intervention specifically designed for African children exposed to trauma and violence in the Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. By integrating evidence-based psychological theories and participatory methodologies, the research provides a structured approach to understanding, assessing, and addressing childhood trauma within the South African context. Employing a multi-phased mixed-methods design, the study is structured into four key phases. Phase 1 involves a systematic literature review to evaluate existing childhood trauma interventions and identify their limitations. Phase 2 consists of qualitative investigations, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with children, caregivers, and health-care professionals, to explore lived experiences and intervention gaps. Phase 3 conceptualizes the findings into a structured theoretical framework, guided by Donabedian’s Structure-Process-Outcome (SPO) model and Practice-Oriented Theory (POT), ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of trauma care quality. Finally, Phase 4 focuses on the development, testing, and validation of a contextually relevant trauma intervention using the 6SQuID model and the E-Delphi technique, incorporating expert reviews to refine its efficacy. Findings from the study highlight significant barriers to effective childhood trauma management, including financial constraints, fear of perpetrators, inadequate parental involvement, professional boundary challenges, and systemic inefficiencies in referral pathways. Additionally, the research identifies key facilitators that enhance trauma intervention success, such as continuous training for healthcare workers, community awareness initiatives, integration of trauma-informed care within schools, and increased deployment of victim advocates. The developed intervention integrates therapeutic techniques, screening assessments, community support mechanisms, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring a sustainable and scalable approach to trauma care. This study makes a ground-breaking contribution to the field of child psychology, mental health intervention, and policy development. By tailoring trauma care strategies to cultural, social, and economic realities, it presents a scientifically validated, adaptable model that can be implemented across various settings. Moreover, the study’s recommendations provide practical insights for policymakers, healthcare practitioners, educators, and social workers on how to enhance trauma recovery efforts in rural and underserved communities. Ultimately, this research bridges the gap between theoretical exploration and real-world application, offering a holistic, evidence-based solution to childhood trauma in African contexts. By informing future mental health policies, early intervention programs, and clinical practices, the study contributes to the long-term psychological well-being and resilience of African children who have experienced trauma, ensuring that they receive timely, effective, and compassionate care.Item Embargo Exploration of cultural practices and their psychosocial functions on bereavement across the Vhavenda culture, Thulamela Municipality.(2025-09-05) Dzhombere, Faresani; Mphephu, K.; Mushwana, M. D.Vhavenda people, much like other Africans, have different cultural interventions in place to deal with the agony caused by losing their loved one or a member of the community. When there is little information about cultural interventions during bereavement, community members tend to lose their way and suffer the consequences of not upholding cultural activities. The purpose of the study was to explore the cultural practices and their psychosocial functions on bereavement across the Vhavenda culture in Thulamela Municipality. This study was guided by the theory of social support and cultural grief. The study used the qualitative approach because the researcher aimed to provide an in-depth description. The exploratory-descriptive research design was used to provide an in-depth description. The target population were Vhavenda individuals living in a selected village in Thulamela. Purposeful sampling was used to sample participants. A total number of 14 Tshivenda speaking participants were sampled. The researcher, in conjunction with the interview guide, was responsible for collecting data. In-depth, semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were held at Maungani village at a location agreed on by the researcher and the participants. Ethical considerations were implemented throughout the research. The key findings of the study are that these cultural interventions serve a psychosocial function among the Vhavenda community, that includes providing peace, healing and comforting the bereaved.Item Embargo Grieving processes, ubuntu values, and challenges encountered by families that experienced losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Mudau, Dzivhuluwani Rinah; Takalani, F. J.; Mphephu, K. E.Engaging in Ubuntu with grieving individuals is considered a component of the healing process, in African cultures. Grieving, however, had to be altered in shape and form due to the Coronavirus pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19), as numerous restrictions had to be implemented, worldwide, to mitigate the spread of the lethal virus. This research employed a qualitative methodology for data collection and analysis, utilising in-depth interviews. This study employed a single data collection instrument, interviews, to collect data from 20 participants across 10 families. Participants were picked conveniently by purposive sampling procedures. The data underwent thematic analysis, and the findings were presented thematically, with analogous perspectives and experiences consolidated. Data was collected and handled in a manner to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of the participants details were not compromised. The recommendations from this study were derived from the analyses and interpretations of the findings. The results indicated that during the COVID-19 pandemic, bereaved families encountered emotional, social, and cultural obstacles, such as isolation, interrupted rituals, and insufficient community assistance, which exacerbated their mourning. Nonetheless, Ubuntu principles, such as empathy, solidarity, and collective resilience facilitated families' adaptation to evolving circumstances and recovery. The research advocates for interventions, such as culturally-attuned mental health therapies, utilising internet platforms to preserve social connections during disasters, and communities formulating recommendations to assist bereaved families during public health emergencies. Ethical principles such as, informed consent were adhered to, and the privacy and anonymity of participants were maintained throughout the research procedure.Item Embargo Guidelines for provision of maternal mental health care services by traditional healers in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Rambau, Musiiwa Ivy; Mulaudzi, T.; Takalani, J.; Mushwana, D.Background: Women have an increased risk of mental health disorders during pregnancy, especially after giving birth, and these disorders are associated with increased maternal morbidity and mortality, and adverse child health outcomes. Traditional healers (THs) are an important source of psychiatric support to pregnant women in many parts of the world. The aim of this study was to develop guidelines to be used by THs in the provision of maternal mental health care services at Vhembe District in Limpopo Province. The study consists of two phases, namely, the Empirical Phase (Phase 1) and the Guidelines Development Phase (Phase 2). In Phase 1, a qualitative approach was used to conduct the study. Purpose: The purpose of the study was two-fold: Phase 1 (Empirical Phase): Phase 1a focused on exploring THs’ knowledge on maternal mental health care, to identify maternal mental health care needs, to describe maternal mental health care services provided by THs, to discuss the possibility of referral by THs. Phase 1b focused on exploring the experiences of pregnant mothers in the provision of mental health care services by THs. Phase 2 (Profiling the Guidelines): The purpose of this phase was to use the findings of Phase 1 to profile the guidelines for provision of maternal mental health care services by THs at selected villages of Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Methods: The design of the study was guided by the WHO Model of Guideline Development (2012). The model focuses on the contextual factors - enabling factors, predisposing factors and needs factors - that influence the individual’s utilization of health care services. Seven selected villages of Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa, were selected for the study. The qualitative research method was used to conduct Phases 1a and 1b of the study. A qualitative study was used to explore the objectives of the study. Results: Following in-depth analysis of interview data, several main themes were identified from study participants, viz., THs and pregnant women who accessed maternal mental health care services provided. The study utilized an explorative-descriptive research design. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to draw 14 participants from the selected villages of Vhembe District in Limpopo Province. Data were collected from participants using semi-structured and unstructured interview methods of the qualitative approach. Data collected were analyzed using thematic content analysis. To ensure trustworthiness of the study, the researcher applied the following criteria: credibility and dependability. Internal and external ethics protocols were taken into consideration when the study was conducted. Phase 2 concentrated on developing guidelines for provision of maternal mental health care services by THs. The researcher adopted Steps 2 to 9 stipulated in the WHO (2012) Handbook for Guideline Development. The main themes raised by the THs who provided mental health care were financial support, accessibility to resources, safety and security needs, non-adherence by patients on mental health care services, and combination of Western and Traditional mental health care services. The pregnant women in this study identified lack of respect, discrimination, accessibility challenges, gaps in available maternal mental health care services, diagnosis methods utilized, decentralized maternal mental health care services, lack of information, affordability, long waiting period in hospital and effectiveness of maternal mental health treatment utilized as challenges associated with poor maternal mental health care services delivery and outcomes. The quality of maternal mental health care services in Western intervention models was perceived as poor by both the pregnant women seeking care and THs providing maternal mental health care. The main concerns raised by pregnant women were lack of respect, lack of privacy, and difficulty to receive mental health care services in hospital. The results confirmed that guidelines were needed for the effectiveness in the provision of maternal mental health care services by THs. The findings from the qualitative study were used by an expert group to develop guidelines to enhance effectiveness in the provision of maternal mental health care services by THs. The profiling of the guidelines was validated by group experts. The researcher adopted Steps 2 to 9 stipulated in WHO (2012) Handbook for Guideline Development. The selected Guidelines Development Group (GDG) assisted in validating the guidelines profiled. The validated guidelines were useful to the researcher to verify whether the guidelines developed were congruent with the practice of THs in the provision of maternal mental health care services. Conclusion: This study concludes that access to comprehensive quality maternal mental health care services must be rendered to all women in times of need. Quality maternal mental health care services should be rendered by skilled THs who underwent training and are well-equipped to be functional in the provision of maternal mental health care services and the researcher updated the guidelines accordingly.Item Embargo The effects of gender-based violence on the psychological welbeing of exposed community members, in a selected rural village in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province(2025-05-16) Maselesele, Lusani Mavis; Radzilani, M.; Magadani, M.Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is any form of violence or abuse that targets someone based on gender identity, expression, or societal role. It can affect anyone, causing trauma and psychological distress for the victims and their families, although it disproportionately affects women and girls. Literature reveals that massive studies have been previously conducted to explore the effects of GBV on victims, yet very little have been done to understand the effect on secondary and tertiary victims, who are community members who, directly or indirectly, witnessed incidents of GBV. The study explored and described. the effects of GBV on the psychological wellbeing of exposed community members in a selected rural village in the Vhembe District of Limpopo. The researcher employed the theoretical framework of the social learning theory and the concept of violence as trauma. The study used a qualitative research approach and an exploratory research design. A sample of 12 participants was selected from Khubvi village in the Thohoyandou policing area; participants were between the ages of 19 and 55 and were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods because of the study's sensitivity. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews, with a semi-structured interview guide containing open-ended questions and data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The trustworthiness of the study was ensured, and all ethical protocols were followed. Finally, recommendations were made based on the study's findings.Item Open Access Views of women regarding gender-based violence in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province(2024-09-06) Netshiongolwe, Rabelani; Mushwana, M.; Madzhie, M.Background: South Africa is identified to be one of the most unsafe countries for women because of its high prevalence of Gender-Based violence. About 10.516 rapes, 1.514 cases of attempted murder and 14.401 assaults against female victims were recorded in 2023 (Mpako &Ndoma, 2023). Gender Links has reported that more than two thirds of women in Limpopo have had an experience on some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime, including partner and non-partner violence. Therefore, the aim of the study was to explore the views of women regarding Gender based violence. The objectives were: to explore the views of women on gender- based violence against women, to explore the social impacts of GBV towards women, to describe the effects of GBV on women as victims of GBV and to explore the potential measures that may reduce GBV against women. Methods: The study was qualitative in nature and utilized exploratory research design to explore the views of women regarding gender-based violence. The study was conducted at the five villages with the Thulamela municipality, Thohoyandou, Lwamondo, Tshisaulu, Itsani, Muledane. A sample of 20 Tshivenda speaking women aged between the ages of 25 to 50 were selected using purposive sampling method. Semi-structured interviews and an interview guide was used during data collection process, and the study employed thematic analysis for the purpose of data analysis. Pre-testing of the interview guide was done using two participants who fell within the inclusion criteria of the study but were later excluded in the actual study. Trustworthiness of the study was assessed using credibility, conformability, dependability and transferability. Furthermore, the study adhered to the following research ethics; institutional ethics, informed consent, confidentiality, avoidance of harm, voluntary participation, publication of results and acknowledgement of others works. Results: The findings of the study found that GBV is indeed prevalent in the Thulamela municipality. The study found psychological, social and physical impacts of GBV on women as victims of gender-based violence. The following impacts were identified: stress and depression, trauma, suicide, alcoholism, anxiety and mood disorder, low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness and shame. Furthermore the study suggested that changing certain societal norms and expectation like normalising divorce might help reduce GBV against women. Recommendation: based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that communities are to change certain societal expectations and norms and teach females to be more independent financially to reduce the number of females who become victims of GBV. The study further recommends that the department of justice along with the department of correctional services to give longer sentences to perpetrators of GBV.Item Open Access The psychological experiences of learners who have undergone the loss of a parent at Collins Chabane Municipality schools(2024-09-06) Mashaba, Rirhandzo; Mushwana, M. D.; Mphephu, K. E.A parent's death is a significant life event, and children must absorb, grieve, and deal with their feelings and emotions in their own way. During learning, a learner should be in a good state of mind and emotional well-being to be at the optimal level of learning, and the area of learning must be conducive. School performance may suffer as a result of the drawn-out and painful process of grieving and sorrow. The purpose of the study was to examine the experiences of students who have undergone the loss of a parent at Collins Chabane Municipality Schools, Limpopo Province. The phenomenological design was the main emphasis of the qualitative research methodology. Purposive sampling was the method used by the researcher to choose twenty (20) participants. The researcher stopped collecting data when no new information was expected to be added to enhance the study's findings. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather study data; the interviews were documented in Xitsonga and, after that, transcribed into English. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was utilised to examine the information. The outcome of the research was useful in sharing knowledge about the experiences of loss with the learner. In exploring the coping skills and identifying the protocols put in place to support the learners going through the experience of losing a parent, the research centred on examining the perspectives of students who have undergone the loss of a parent at Collins Chabane Municipality Schools. Additionally, moral precepts like informed consent and confidentiality were observed in that study, and the recommendations were based on the findings.
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