Theses and Dissertations

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
Open Access
Experiences of intimate partner violence amongst women in a non-profit organisation in Blouberg Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2023-10-05) Muofhe, Mantshi Florance; Mushwana, D. R.; Koko, B.
Intimate partner violence is a problem that affects women worldwide. It is a form of gender-based violence usually where women / victims are violated and abused by their male intimate partners. The issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a public health concern, in addition, it violates women’s human rights. South African studies indicate that intimate partner violence prevalence’s rates are high despite the intervention programmes that have been designed to address IPV. This study aimed at exploring the experiences of women who had been victims of intimate partner violence in a non-profit organization in Blouberg Municipality, Limpopo Province. The study employed a qualitative research approach, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Eight participants were selected based on purposive sampling and data was gathered from them using semi-structured interviews. The ecological model and feminist theory as the conceptual frameworks were used to interpret the women’s lived experiences. The findings of the study indicate that women suffer from immense psychological and social effects of their experiences. These effects include - isolation, depression and suicidal ideations. Among some of the recommendations, are that the government should hire more qualified social practitioners, especially, in the rural communities and for stakeholders to address, more diligently, IPV in rural areas to promote gender equality
Open Access
Lecturers and students’ perceptions of decolonisation at a selected rural university in Limpopo
(2023-10-05) Hlungwani, Tlangelani Sydwel; Maphula, A.; Takalani, F. J.; Peters, F.
The prospect of decolonisation has gained importance and emphasis worldwide. Decolonisation aims to give voice and respect to people of non-European decent. In higher education institutions the concern is that identities and the lived world experiences of the majority of people in South Africa is less acknowledged within curriculum, teaching and learning. This study explored lecturers and students’ perceptions about decolonisation at a selected higher education institution in Limpopo, South Africa. The researcher was guided by critical social theory, qualitative method was applied and a case study design was used. Sampling for psychology lecturers and students was done purposively. Twelve participants (two lecturers and ten students) formed the sample from the Department of Psychology at the selected rural based university. An interview guide was utilised to collect data through telephone semi-structured interview. Thematic analysis was used. Results from this study indicate that lecturers and students understand decolonisation, confrontation of colonial practices in higher institutions of education was emphasized as a way of contributing towards the process of decolonisation. The conducted study concluded that decolonisation is understood and there is a need for its relevance in areas like teaching, learning, research, and community engagement to produce independent knowledge rooted in the African worldview.
Open Access
Psychosocial distress associated with lived experiences of teenage mothers in a selected rural hospital in Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Vhembe District in Limpopo province
(2023-05-19) Baloyi, Gezani Morris; Takalani, F. J.; Koko, B.
Various studies conducted show that teenage mothers experience adversities such as depression and stigmatization. The main aim of the study was to explore psychosocial distress associated with lived experiences of teenage mothers in Malamulele rural hospital in Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Vhembe District in Limpopo province. The study adopted a qualitative phenomenological research strategy as well as a descriptive phenomenological research design. The population of the study were teenage mothers aged between 15 and 19 years. The researcher used non-probability sampling method to select participants purposively. A total of 15 participants were selected, and, the sample size was determined by data saturation. An interview guide was designed for data collection using semi-structured, face to face interviews. The simplified five step version of Hycner’s explicitation process guided the data analysis process. Ethical considerations were employed throughout the study. Four themes emerged from analysing the participants’ interview data. These themes include psychosocial and emotional distress, causes of distress, effects of distress and coping resources used by teenage mothers. Recommendations of the study were based on the findings of the study. The study concludes that psychosocial distress among teenage mothers is associated with ill-treatment by healthcare providers.
Open Access
Challenges related to implementation of Employee Health and Wellness Programme in the selected Limpopo Provincial Government Departments within the Vhembe District
(2023-05-19) Mudau, Nkhangweleni
Employees are considered the primary and important resources of any organization or workplace. However, employees are not immune to personal and work-related problems that unfortunately have an impact on their work productivity and performance. To address these problems, organizations have introduced workplace programmes in the form of Employee Assistance Programme / Employee Health and Wellness Programme. Against this background, the aim of this study is to explore the challenges related to the implementation of the Employee Assistance Programme / Employee Health and Wellness Programme experienced by the Employee Health and Wellness Practitioners in the selected government departments in the Vhembe District Municipality of the Limpopo Province. The researcher adopted a qualitative approach and explorative descriptive research design. Theoretically, the study adopted the ecological systems theory to unpack and understand the challenges experienced by the Employee Health and Wellness Practitioners in the implementation of the Employee Assistance Programme / Employee Health and Wellness Programme. Purposive sampling was used to select five (05) Employee Health and Wellness Practitioners from the nine (09) Limpopo provincial government departments implementing the Employee Health and Wellness Programme within the Vhembe District Municipality. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with respondents to collect data. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis approach. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were adopted. Ethical issues were considered to guide the study and to protect the participants and their information. Recommendations were made based on the findings of the study. This study identified four key findings regarding challenges related to the implementation of the Employee Health and Wellness programme in Limpopo provincial government departments, within Vhembe district. The study found that most departments experience challenges of shortage of Employee Health and Wellness practitioners to render effective services to the employees of their respective departments. Departments are also unable to provide adequate working resources for Employee Health and Wellness practitioners to optimally execute their duties within their departments. The study further found that, centralization of budget at head office, sharing of budget with other sub directorates, and limited allocation of budget to the programme for most departments adversely impact in the implementation of the Employee Health and Wellness programme. Lastly the study found that lack of managers’ support towards the implementation of the programme also impact in the proper utilization of the programme by employees.
Open Access
Experiences of people living with epilepsy in selected villages of Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces
(2022-11-10) Luvhengo, Masane; Maphula, A.; Makhado, L.
Epilepsy is a burdensome disease that affects a large number of people worldwide. In most developing countries such as South Africa. Epilepsy remains a public health issue. In some African countries, epilepsy causes are attributed to either indigenous or spiritual beliefs. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of People Living with Epilepsy (PLWE) in selected villages of Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces. A qualitative approach was employed guided by the phenomenological design, which enabled the researcher to understand the experiences of people living with epilepsy. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants with the most relevant characteristics to the population. The characteristics included PLWE and residing at the selected villages. The population consisted of people living with epilepsy who were eleven in number and living in the selected villages of Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were used to collect data. The researcher used one central question to ascertain the experiences of people living with epilepsy. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse data. Ethical issues were considered throughout the study as well as measures to ensure trustworthiness. Drawing from the results, the researcher concluded that epilepsy is a burdensome disease that affects people of different ages. The experiences of PLWE are influenced by many factors that need considerable attention. These factors include psychological, physiological and social experiences of PLWE. The results further revealed that epilepsy is a painful, burdensome disease. Two manuscripts have resulted from the study and the first manuscript is due for submission to the South African Journal of Psychology. The second manuscript is under peer review in the Health SA Gesondheid journal.
Open Access
Challenges of learners from Child-Headed families that affect their educational goals: A case study of three schools in Johannesburg East District, Gauteng Province, South Africa
(2022-07-15) Makuya, Rudzani Vanrijn; Runhare, T.; Muthambi, S. K.
A child-headed household is a form of family that is growing around the world, especially in the sub-Saharan Africa. These are families without adults, hence, are headed by children or adolescents, less than 18 years of age. The study investigated challenges faced by learners from child-headed families that affect their educational goals. This was done through an analysis and description of the experiences of learners from child-headed households through an ecological systems model that included stakeholders like, community, school, government departments and officials as well as non-governmental organisations. This study was based in the Johannesburg East District of Education, in the Gauteng Province, South Africa. A purposive sampling method was used to select three learners from child-headed families, six educators in the School Based Support Teams, three school managers and one social worker from Johannesburg East District schools in Kaalfontein, Ebony Park and Ivory Park in Gauteng Province of South Africa. A Phenomenological qualitative research design was used where face-to-face interviews were conducted, and documents (SBST, school reports and attendance registers) were reviewed. The face-to-face interview were conducted between the researcher and the sample in a one –on –one situation for privacy. The data collected from audio tapes was transcribed. Research quality control measures that are centered on trustworthiness which included aspects such as credibility, transferability, consistency and conformability were observed. To test and implement research ethics, measures such as - informed consent, confidentiality and anonymity, privacy, and empowerment, caring and fairness were employed. The study identified challenges such poor socio-economic background, child abuse, stigmatisation, exclusion, psychological and emotional abuses that were faced by children in child-headed families which and observed that they affected learners academically, socially, emotionally, physically and psychologically. Recommendations were provided to different stakeholders involved in addressing challenges faced by children living in child-headed households.
Open Access
The significance of psychological services on public secondary school learners in Luvuvhu Circuit, Thulamela Municipality
(2021-06-13) Negota, Tshilidzi Diana; Mashamba, T.; Takalani, F. J.; Sikhwari, T. D.
This research report is aimed at exploring the significance of psychological services on public high school learners at Luvhuvhu Circuit. The main objective of this study was to identify the psychological services offered in public secondary schools and their significance, to identify the interventions in place in the Department of Education in South Africa and to explore the coping strategies used by the learners. This study was motivated by reports of the increase in the failure rate at public secondary schools due to social and psychological problems faced by secondary school learners in public schools. Public universities seem to have the appropriate psychological services in place for students to utilise (Lawrence, 2009), however, this does not seem to be the case for public secondary school learners who are faced with extreme developmental crisis. Therefore, the study seeks to involve stakeholders from the Department of Education in collaboration with the Department of Health to assist in providing adequate psychological services to high school learners. The research is qualitative in nature. It made use of Focus Group Discussions and semi-unstructured interviews. A purposive sampling was applied and a sample of nine focus groups was ideal for the researcher because of the need to gather detailed information on the impact of psychological services offered to public secondary school learners at Luvuvhu Circuit. The sample was drawn from Grade 10 to 12 learners attending nine public secondary schools in the Luvuvhu Cicuit. The collected data were analysed using Thematic Content Analysis. The four themes of the study that emerged were problems experienced by learners at public secondary schools, experiences of learners when seeking for psychological services at their public secondary schools and their effectiveness, experiences of learners regarding interventions from the government aiming or attempting to assist them with their problems and self-applied coping strategies used by learners. The study findings revealed that learners face problems daily and these problems do not only affect their school performance, but also their social relationships. Without the assistance of the DOE in dealing with these problems, learners tend to deal with the problems on their own, employing less effective coping mechanisms to achieve some form of relief from the problems that they experience. Therefore, the involvement of stakeholders from the Department of Education in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) is essential to assist in providing adequate psychological services to secondary school learners if problems faced by learners are to be curbed before further damage to their psychological functioning. Schools need a collaboration of professionals that are ready to assist learners with any form of problem for the success of the country.
Open Access
The comorbidity of internalising disorders on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in primary schools in Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2020) Takalani, Morongwa Caroline; Mulaudzi, M. T.; Sodi, T.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common diagnosed neurocognitive behavioural developmental disorder among school going–age children. ADHD in most instances is found to comorbid with internalising disorders such as anxiety and depression, therefore causing impairment on behaviour, emotions, academic, social and many areas of functioning. The existence of comorbid internalising disorders complicates the presentation of ADHD symptoms than if it was pure ADHD. The aim of the study was to explore the comorbidity of internalising disorders and ADHD symptoms. The study investigated whether children with ADHD have more symptoms of anxiety and depression than children without ADHD. The study went further to investigate whether children with ADHD have low self-esteem than children without ADHD. Also, that internalising comorbidities (anxiety and depression) are more prevalent in girls than in boys who have more externalising comorbidities which are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD) and anger issues. The null hypotheses further showed that, children with ADHD do not have more symptoms of anxiety and depression than children without ADHD. Moreover, children with ADHD have no lower self-esteem than children without ADHD. Also, internalising disorders (anxiety and depression) are not prevalent in girls than in boys who do not exhibit more externalising disorders which are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD) and anger issues. The study was conducted in Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality in Lebowakgomo sub circuit. A total of 250 children (94 boys and 156 girls, aged 6 – 12) who were purposively selected participated in the study. A total of 125 clinically diagnosed ADHD were matched to 125 control group for age and gender. Participants were assessed on a battery consisting of Parent/Teacher Disruptive Behavioural Rating Scale (DBD), which was used to assess the presence and degree of ADHD- related symptoms (inattention and hyperactive/ impulsive); Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder and Beck Youth Inventory Second Edition (BYI II), which was used to assess emotional and psychological issues that children experience. ADHD scores obtained on the DBD scale were correlated with scores obtained on BYI II scale. The study only focused on learners from primary schools in Lepelle-Nkumpi in Lebowakgomo sub circuit. In this research study, children who were reported to have a history of neurological problems such as head injurie, epilepsy, cerebral palsy or severe psychiatric disorders were excluded from the study. The results were analysed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc benferoni analysis to determine the significant difference within ADHD subtypes. Results of the study showed that children with ADHD had comorbid internalising disorders (anxiety and depression) when compared to their neurotypical group. Both boys and girls with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD showed symptoms of anxiety and depression. More symptoms of anxiety and depression were observed within the ADHD-HI, ADHD-PI and ADHD-C subtypes. Comorbid internalising disorders (anxiety and depression) were also associated with impairments with ADHD symptom, in particular inattention. Children with ADHD also showed more symptoms of low self-esteem when compared to their neurotypical group. Both boys and girls showed significant difference level of low self-esteem in all ADHD subtypes (ADHD-HI, ADHD-PI and ADHD-PI). The results further revealed that both boys and girls equally showed symptoms of comorbid internalising disorders (anxiety and depression), whereas girls showed significantly more symptoms of externalising comorbidities such as ODD, CD and anger issues. In conclusion, the findings suggest that the comorbidity of internalising disorders in a clinically diagnosed child with ADHD worsens or complicates the child’s expected normal functioning unlike when the child was presenting with only ADHD. The results further suggest that a child with clinical diagnosis has double impairment as a result of many impairments which are occurring at the same time. Moreover, the existence of externalising comorbidities which are salient in girls with ADHD may require proper screening and assessment.
Open Access
Adherence of antiretroviral therapy and mental health of HIV-diagnosed patients in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2019-09-20) Manenzhe, Tovhowani; Maphula, A.; Bessong, P. O.
Background: Given that there is 57.7 million HIV-diagnosed people living in South Africa and the government has established the largest public antiretroviral programme in the whole world but only 53% are adhering. Adherence remains a challenge, due to presence of mental health issues among HIV diagnosed. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate adherence to antiretroviral therapy and mental health of HIV-diagnosed patients in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. Methods: This was a mixed method study using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research approaches. In the quantitative approach, triangulation was utilised in the form of a questionnaire and patients records. Simple random sampling was used to select 134, descriptive analysis using SPSS version 25. For the qualitative approach, a phenomenological research designs was considered and convenience sampling was used to select fifteen participants (15). Data was collected using semi-structured interview; responses were analysed using a computer-aided program called, ATLAS ti. Results: The self-report of adherence was 94.8 %, objectively 39.6% of CD4 count <200c/mm3 at baseline and 34.3% CD4 count after six months was found. 16.5% of females and 2% of males defaulted treatment and 14.9% of missed medical appointments 1-6 times. This study also revealed the mental health issues that HIV-diagnosed patients are struggling with after the diagnosis include the stages of grief, stress, depression, anxiety, mistrust, shame, stigma and discrimination. Recommendation: Effective strategies need to be enhanced and tailor made in effort to encourage patients to take ART diligently. The healthcare providers, community members and the government should be made aware of mental health issues.
Open Access
Adherence: Perceptions and behaviour of patients on Antiretroviral in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2019-09-20) Takalani, Tanganedzani; Maphula, A.; Mashamba, T.; Bessong, Pascal O.
Background: An estimated 70% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa out of 25 million are living with HIV. HIV is a debilitating disease, however, antiretroviral treatment helps promote effective viral suppression, reduces the risk of transmission and prevents death (WHO, 2013). To ensure positive treatment outcomes, high levels of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) adherence, 95%, is necessary, however, research indicates that 23% of Africans are achieving less than 80% adherence, potentially impacting negatively on prognosis. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine adherence, explore perceptions and behaviour of patients on Antiretroviral Therapy attending Thohoyandou Health Centre, in Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa. Methodology: This was a mixed method which employed both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. In quantitative, triangulation was utilised through a questionnaire and patients’ file, simple random sampling was used to select 105 male and female patients aged 18-60 who are on ART at Thohoyandou Health Centre; data were collected and SPSSversion 25 was used to analyse the data through descriptive, cross tabulation and inferential statistics using Chi-square.Qualitative phase – phenomelogical research design was utilised, twenty participants were purposively sampled and individually interviewed, ATLAS. ti program was used to analyse the data collected. Results: 67% of respondents were females, 34% of the respondents’ age range was 50-60 years, 44.8% were single, 48.6% had tertiary education and 69.5% were unemployed. The self-report of ART adherence of 87.6% among patients was indicated, with 19.6% who reported defaulting ART, 14.3% admitted to missing medical appointments. The reasons for missing medical appointments were: forgetfulness, not a convenient time, patient feeling better, transportation challenges and being too sick to attend. The objective evaluation of patients’ CD4 count at baseline revealed that 40.9% of patients had a CD4 count of <200c/mm3, out of 40.9% respondents (15.2%) were those aged between 41-50 years, 31.4% of respondents did not know their CD4 count for various reasons (defaulted on treatment, missed appointments). CD4 count follow-up data after six months revealed that 33% of patients had a CD4 count <200c/mm3 and 39% accounted for unknown CD4 count. vi Three themes emerged from the data, namely: Knowledge of HIV were respondents presented a negaitive and positive perception of ths diagnosis; barriers to ART adherence where sub-themes included discrimination, strigma, rejection, inadequate knowledge about the diagnosis and treatment, side effects; coping strategies where acceptance, religion and social support serve as corner stones for patients. Association was examined and findings did not reveal any significant association between gender, marital status, education, occupation; however, age was significantly associated with non-adherence to ART with X2 = 3.69, df = 1, p = < .002. Recommendations: The study recommends intensification of health education campaign against stigma, discrimination, rejection and other barriers to enhance positive attitude towards HIV patients that wil consequently stimulate adherence and alleviate the burden associated with taking treatment unswervingly. Given the high percentage of infected older respondents, government must also focus its resources to educate illiterate and older people about HIV, adherence and management in order to achieve the golden standardrate of 95% adherence. Strategies to facilitate and normalise adherence among males is indicated.
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Exploring the effectiveness of rehabilitation: A phenomenological study of parole recidivists in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province.
(2019-09-20) Musekwa, Ofhani Prudance; Mulaudzi, M. J.; Takalani F. J.
Correctional Service inmate rehabilitation and rising issues of recidivism have been of interest within the Justice System with the mind to improve and ensure not only functionality but the effectiveness of every effort put toward rehabilitating inmates. Individuals are not convicted with the intention of closing them off from society completely, but to have their abnormal behavior corrected (this speaks to effective rehabilitation programmes and successful re-entry). Inevitably, this makes the parole period pivotal for assessing these programmes and why rehabilitation is not directly resulting in successful re-entry since parolees are more at risk to reoffend, making up the rising margin of recidivism of over 70% in South Africa. It then becomes significant to look into whether rehabilitative programmes are effective according to individuals who have practically been on the receiving end. This study investigated the lived experiences that recidivist parolees had of rehabilitation by taking a closer look at their lived experiences. This was qualitatively realized by employing to the study: interpretive phenomenological design. From a population of recidivist parolees residing in Vhembe District, after agreeing to participate in the study, a sample of 10 participants was interviewed (in accordance to data saturation) which were attained through the snowball sampling technique. From this sample, data was collected through the use of semi-structured open-ended interviews and analyzed through interpretive phenomenological analysis. This process yielded the following results. Generally, participants felt that rehabilitation programmes are not effective and play a very small role in influencing change. This is a similar case with re-entry into society. In light of this, participants reported that they have difficulty fitting into society as normal members because of social stigma, chronic trauma, not getting enough support after release and not being eligible for employment. Participants also reported irregular administration and accessibility of the programmes for all inmates. In light of these results, rehabilitation should be compulsory for all inmates and should also include post arrest programmes.
Open Access
A model to facilitate language acquisition/development in children between 0 to 3 years in rural communities of Makhado Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2019-09-20) Madzhie, Mpho; Mulaudzi, M. T.; Takalani, F. T.
The aim of the study was to develop a conceptualized model that will enhance language acquisition of children between 0 and 3 years. Language is a use of words and symbol to convey message, or communication. Generally, from birth to the age of four months children express their needs through crying and are soothed by the sound of voices or by low rhythmic sounds. When adults talk to children, children later imitate adult’s tongue movements and start to make sounds, coos and gurgles. Providing children with developmental stimulation and exposing them to learning opportunities increases their cognitive and social-emotional skills/abilities. Strategies to enhance language development are fundamental in children and can reduce many literacy related problems in later childhood. The objectives of the study are: to describe activities done by caregivers to influence language development; to identify factors that influence language development; to describe the importance of language development and to explain the disorders that are associated with language development. This study was qualitative in nature and it utilised an explorative design. This research design enabled the researcher to investigate the nature of acquisition comprehensively as well as the development of language and other factors that are related to it. The study was conducted at Vhembe District Municipality. Three villages were selected, namely Tshikuwi, Tshirolwe and HaMatsa villages, which are found in Makhado Municipality under Limpopo Province, South Africa. Purposive sampling was used to sample participants for the study. The individuals selected were those judged to have certain special characteristics as well as the ability to provide in-depth information for the purpose of the study. Thirty participants were selected to participate in the study. The semi-structured face to face interview and the interview guide with open-ended questions were used for data collection. Pre-testing of the interview guide was done to check if the guide would produce the expected results, three women from three different villages were selected for pretesting. All questions in the interview guide were addressed during data collection. Collected data were transcribed and analysed using thematic content analysis. The study adhered to the following research ethics: informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, voluntary participation, no harm to the participants and dissemination of results. The study revealed that language is an important tool which is used to convey information from one person to the other. The findings indicate that language helps children to communicate and relate with other people. Language was also explained as a tool which is used to educate children, either at school or at home. The study shows that when children are learning language, they will also be stimulating their reasoning, thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition, it was also indicated that cognitive development reduces problems such as poor language development, a low self-esteem and isolation. The findings of this study show that there are a number of activities that can be used by caregivers and parents to foster the development of language in children. Those activities include, communicating with a child, reading of books, watching TV, naming of objects and explaining meaning of words. The study also identified several environmental factors that can be used to foster the development of language in children. The following environmental factors were identified in the study: communication, parental level of education, home socioeconomic status, caregiver’s personality and the availability of other children in the family. Lastly, the findings show that there are many disorders that may affect the development of language in children. The language disorders that the study identified include expressive language disorder, dyslexia, and inability to understand spoken. However, the study also reveals that these disorders may be treated. The findings of this study lead to the development of a conceptualized model to facilitate language acquisition in children between 0 and 3 years was developed. The meaning of one concept, namely reinforcement was explained in detail, in order for users of the model to understand its operational definition in the model. Reinforcement was explained because it has a diversity of meanings. The model enabled the researcher to create a link between research and what is happening in a society. Model validation was done to verify if the developed model relates to practical life, research and language development. The model for this study was validated for its applicability and usability. The drafted model was given to psychologists, speech therapists and parent to determine its usability and applicability. Keywords: language, language acquisition, language development model, language disorders.