Magister Artium - MA (Psychology)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10566/12152

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A case study of the social coping experiences of an adolescent with Arthrogryposis Multitplex Congenita
(University of the Western Cape, 2009) Van wyk, Morne
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita or A.M.C. is a disorder, which is characterized by multiple contractures of the joints. The disorder presents with varied grades of severity. Despite the physical deformities, intelligence is intact. The aim of this research was to explore the social coping experiences of an adolescent living with Arthrogryposis. This research was a qualitative study. The research design was a case study. Phenomenology was the theoretical framework used. The data collection was done by using one sample, an adolescent living with Arthrogryposis who shared her social coping experiences. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. This research was a personal journey for the researcher because he too lives with Arthrogryposis. Objectivity was maintained. After securing the participant's consent, I emphasized anonymity, confidentiality and the voluntary nature of the study to her. The significance of this research was to develop an understanding of and support for people living with Arthrogryposis and for the disabled in general. The major issues, which arose from this research was the role of transport, social relationships, communication with the non-disabled, the role of the community, making friends, the role of the parent in socialization and others' perceptions of Arthrogryposis. There were limitations to the study, which included interviews, which were partially inaudible, the absence of the participants' father, the shyness of the participant, the social inexperience of the participant, lack of other participants and complications Mwith transportation
The effects of self-help stress management and parental training on the adjustment of single divorced mothers
(University of the Western Cape, 1991) Loots, J.S; Broekmann, N.C; Heyns, P.M
Research findings showed that single, divorced mothers could be a population in need of counselling because they faced a variety of chronic stressors, including the demands of parenting itself. In the present study it was argued that the most effective treatment for single parents would be group parental training which was supplemented with a self-help stress management programme. A quasi-experimental, 2 x 2 design was used. Subjects (N = 40) were presented, over a period of 10 weeks, with a parental training programme based on the skills-training model and a self help stress management programme based on the stress inoculation model. They either received both programmes, or only the parental training programme, or only the stress management programme, or were placed in a waiting list control group .. Each subject's adjustment was measured on 10 indices (Contentment, self-esteem, Parental Attitudes, Well-being, Tension, Depression, Anxiety, Vigour, Fatigue and Confusion) at a pre test, post test and follow-up. An analysis of the changes in each group found that the combined treatment group showed more significant improvements than any of the other three groups. An analysis of variance between groups found that if pre test differences were taken into account, groups did not differ significantly at the post test and follow-up.
Disclosure, social support and stigma in a sample of men and women living with HIV / AIDS in Khayelitsha
(University of the Western Cape, 2011) Linganiso, Xolelwa; Adam, M.E
This study investigated disclosure, support and stigma among a sample of men and women living with HIV/AIDS in Khayelitsha. This study aimed to; investigate participants' experiences of HIV/AIDS social and self-stigma descriptively, investigate participants' experiences of social support descriptively, investigate participants' experiences of HIV I AIDS descriptively, examine whether there is a relationship between self-stigma and social support and explore whether there is a relationship between disclosure and HIV I AIDS stigma. The Social Identity Theory was used to explain stigma in the context of HIV I AIDS. A quantitative research approach was also used to conduct this study, applying random sampling to gather 100 HIV -positive participants living and attending support groups in Khayelitsha, between the ages of 18 and 65. Of these participants, 13% were male and 87% female. The Capacity Building for HIV/AIDS research in South Africa questionnaire developed by researchers from the Human Sciences Research Council, Penn-State University, the University of the Western Cape and the University of Limpopo was used to gather data for this study. The study tested these hypotheses; PL WHIV's experience high levels of social and self- stigma, PL WHIV's experience low levels of social support, PL WHIV's are less likely to disclose their HIV positive status to others, there is a significant positive relationship between self-stigma and social support, there is a significant positive relationship between disclosure and HIV IAIDS stigma. The correlation coefficient (r) analysis and descriptive analyses were used in SPSS to analyze data. Results indicated that participants in this study were still experiencing stigma, received social support, more especially from mothers and sisters and disclosed their HIV -positive status less to colleagues and extended family members. Non-significant relationships were found between self-stigma and social support and also between disclosure and HIV I AIDS stigma. Future recommendations are made regarding future research in the area of HIV I AIDS stigma.
A systematic review: student and supervisor variables affecting completion of postgraduate research requirements
(University of the Western Cape, 2015) Rae ,Nicolette
South Africa has one of the highest postgraduate dropout rates in the world. One of the main contributing factors to the high number of unfinished Master's and Doctorate degrees is incomplete theses and dissertations. Frequently postgraduate students complete all other course requirements, but are unable to complete the independent research component. Ethics clearance was obtained from the Senate research committee at UWC. This study used a systematic review methodology to identify appropriate literature on the personal characteristics and demographic variables of postgraduate research students and supervisors and the impact that these variables have on completion rates. The study evaluated the literature for methodological quality in order to enable comprehensive identification, evaluation and meta-synthesis of the current best evidence regarding personal and demographic factors which may affect the supervisory relationship and help or hinder completion rates. This resulted in an evidence base of filtered information which can be used by individuals, institutions of higher education, and government or non-government organisations to inform individual practice, specialised training programmes and general psycho education. The results indicated that there is empirical evidence from good quality research that personal and demographic variables impact the working alliance between students and supervisors, and ultimately the completion of the research. Race, gender, spirituality, isolation, and socio-economic status were among the more prominent factors identified.
The evaluation of the group differences and item bias of the English version of a standardised test of academic language proficiency for use across English and Xhosa first-language speakers
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Haupt, Genevieve Ruth; Koch, S. E.
South Africa's Language-in-Education Policy is one of additive multilingualism, but in reality this policy is not adhered to, in that most black children are being educated through the medium of English from Grade 4. This type of instruction affects the development of academic language proficiency in their primary language, as these children are not engaging in cognitively demanding tasks in their primary or first language. The Woodcock Munoz Language Survey (WMLS) is a test to assess academic language proficiency in Additive Bilingual Education, and is extensively used in the United States of America (USA) for this purpose. It is important to note that the proposed study is a sub-study of a larger study, in which the original WMLS (American-English version) was adapted into English and Xhosa, to be used in South Africa to assess additive bilingual programmes. For this sub-study, the researcher was interested in examining the overall equivalence of the adapted English version of the WMLS. Owing to insufficient tests evaluating academic language proficiency in the South African context, the significance, as well as the overall aim, of the study is to ensure that the issues of group difference and item bias have been assessed to ensure that the adapted English version of the WMLS is suitable to be used across English first-language and Xhosa first-language speakers. Because this is a sub-study, the researcher (of the sub-study) has conducted an exploratory quantitative study with the use of Secondary Data. The researcher has used the framework of equivalence as a theoretical framework in order to examine the research question. Given the use of existing data, the procedures of the collection of the data by the researcher of the larger study have been outlined in the Methodology section of the present study.
A discourse analysis on the construction of meaning by South African women who have experienced miscarriage or still-birth
(University of the Western Cape, 2012) Naidoo, Anika Devi; Andipatin, Michelle
Pregnancy is constructed as being a joy-filled and natural experience with a taken for-granted expectation that the outcome will be a healthy baby. The reality is that roughly 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage and the stillbirth rate in South Africa is 24 per 100 births. Despite the overwhelming statistics related to pregnancy loss, it is still a topic that is shrouded in silence especially in relation to the psychological aspects of the experience. My primary aim of this study was to explore the manner in which women construct meaning around pregnancy loss by identifying and deconstructing the dominant discourses used by women to construct their experience. My secondary aim was to unravel the vast silences surrounding the experience. For the purpose of the study pregnancy loss was defined in terms of both miscarriage and stillbirth Women from all socio-economic backgrounds of consenting age who were English speaking and had experienced a pregnancy loss ( either miscarriage or stillbirth) were considered. Women were recruited using a combination of snowball sampling and posters placed in doctors rooms. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview. The women in this study made use of several discourses to make sense of their pregnancy loss experience: Discourses of motherhood, Discourse of failure and religious discourse. The discourses of motherhood included: motherly instinct disregarded, responsibility towards foetus and need to protect from harm, claiming role as mother, the natural mother, the deviant mother. The discourses of failure included: failure as social mother, failure of body, failure of God and failure of medicine.
A systematic review reporting on the psychometric properties of the instruments used to diagnose depression post stroke.
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Moodley, Miché Shamani
Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a recognised consequence of stroke, yet the literature shows considerable variation in how PSD is defined, operationalised and measured. These inconsistencies influence prevalence estimates, affect comparability across studies and limit the clinical usefulness of many instruments. This thesis undertook a systematic review and meta-synthesis to identify instruments used to assess PSD in adults and to evaluate the adequacy of their reported psychometric properties. A two-phase search strategy was conducted through the University of the Western Cape’s uKwazi discovery system. The initial search covered studies from 2010 to 2021, followed by a post-conceptualisation update (2022–2025). The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Across both phases, 72 studies were included. Data were extracted on definitions, classification systems, instrument purpose, adaptations, modes of administration, and psychometric properties. Frequently used instruments included the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM Disorders. Many measures were designed for general depression and applied to stroke populations without stroke-specific validation. Psychometric evidence was inconsistently reported. Internal consistency was common, while test–retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, comprehensive validity evidence, and diagnostic accuracy metrics such as sensitivity and specificity were limited. The findings highlight the need for clearer definitional frameworks and more rigorous validation practices in PSD research. Ethics clearance for this study was granted by the University of the Western Cape Biomedical Research Ethics Committee.
An exploration of educators' perception of their psycho-social well-being in the Eastern Cape primary school context
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Monakali, Kwanga Sibabalwe
Educators in the Eastern Cape face persistent challenges stemming from systemic under-resourcing, socio-economic inequality, and emotionally demanding work environments, factors that deeply affect their psychosocial well-being. Recognising their central role in shaping learning environments, this study describes and interprets the personal, professional, and societal influences on educator well-being. Drawing on secondary data from a broader study conducted across three South African provinces, this research focused specifically on 12 in-depth interviews conducted with purposively selected primary school educators in several districts in the Eastern Cape. A reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s approach and supported by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model, and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, was used to analyse participants’ narratives. The findings revealed that educators experience emotional exhaustion due to limited departmental support, report high community crime, unrealistic administrative demands, and minimal parental involvement. The removal of educator assistants further increased workloads, while financial strain forced some educators to personally fund classroom materials to facilitate effective learning and teaching. Informal coping mechanisms such as peer support, spirituality, and counselling were frequently used, though access to formal psychological resources remained scarce. Many educators entered the profession with passion and purpose, however their real-world experiences, especially within disadvantaged public-school settings, often diminished their initial enthusiasm. This study received ethical approval from the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (HS24/6/9). Key recommendations from this research include that prioritise building inclusive and accessible support systems for educators, reducing workload pressures, and developing initiatives that focus on recognising educators’ professional identity as central to their well-being.
Provision of care for children diagnosed with ADHD: Caregiver’s perceptions and decision-making
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Bailey, Rénay
The Children's Act 38 of 2005 enforces children's rights as outlined in the Constitution, with a focus on prioritising their best interests. South Africa has diverse family structures, and various individuals within the family may serve as the primary caregivers for children. This essential role ensures that children’s needs are met, especially those with neurodevelopmental disorders. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children's development and well-being in home, school, and social settings. Caring for a child with ADHD requires an intense emotional commitment to their overall well-being, beyond just managing symptoms. This study aimed to investigate caregiver perceptions of ADHD and their decision-making processes regarding the care and management of children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders. A single case study allowed for a thorough examination of their personal experiences, challenges, and decision-making for their child diagnosed with ADHD. This nuanced exploration offered depth and valuable insights into the complexities within real-life contexts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the recordings were transcribed. Data was analysed using content analysis. All ethical principles were adhered to. Qualitative methodology offered a detailed context in which to understand the data. The caregiver’s specific background, environment, and unique circumstances shed light on how these factors influenced their experiences, providing insight into the caregiving journey. This focused approach led to the identification of themes and patterns that reflected the caregiver's story, culminating in the identification of six primary content categories and thirteen subcategories. These reflect the perceptions and challenges of the index caregiver, emphasising how emotional complexities, knowledge gaps, and systemic barriers compound these issues
Exploring the scope of parenting programmes/interventions in South Africa: Guided by a systematic review and Delphi method.
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Martin, Genevieve Anastasia
The most fundamental figures in a child’s life are their caregivers as they play a crucial role in the child’s psychobiological, cognitive, social, psychological and emotional development. A positive influence in this development is fostered through the caregivers’ parenting practices, which may be governed by various factors including, but not limited to, the degree of responsiveness/warmth and demandingness/control exhibited. Parenting interventions refer to programmes designed to assist caregivers in improving their parenting practices and skills to promote positive outcomes in children. This study explored the scope of parenting interventions in South Africa through a mixed-method design, involving a systematic review and Delphi method. The systematic review provided a structured assessment of existing peer-reviewed literature pertaining to the design and delivery of parenting interventions in South Africa. Literature was sourced via a selection of nine databases within UWC’s institutional library repository. The final analysis identified 16 articles which referred to the effectiveness of parenting interventions in South Africa as well as the barriers to intervention. The second phase of this study utilised a Delphi method as a measure to explore key findings from the systematic review. Nine experts in the field of parenting interventions (identified through the systematic review and through expert referral) participated in this phase, highlighting the importance of parenting interventions and the mitigation of barriers. Qualitative data was obtained from nine individual structured interviews that were facilitated either via online meetings or via written response. Data was analysed thematically in conjunction with Braun and Clarke’s six principles. Findings of the study emphasise the need for culturally adaptable, scalable interventions, long-term sustainability and to address the systemic barriers that negatively influence parenting practices and behaviours. This research provides the groundwork for improving parenting interventions and fostering healthy family dynamics and communities. Limitations centred upon contextual relevance, systemic and structural barriers. Future recommendations emphasise the need for broader national representation, gender-diverse expert panels, and culturally relevant, community-based approaches that address socio-economic barriers such as transport, cost, and access to services.
Navigating perinatal loss: Exploring cultural perspectives of Swati parents in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Nhlanhla, Mabuza Bernard
Perinatal loss is a prevalent issue worldwide, and it is characterised by physical, emotional, and psychological effects. Literature reports that perinatal loss is associated with cultural stigma, resulting in isolation, depression, long-term grieving, etc. There is however, a dearth of scholarly literature that explicates Swati experiences of perinatal loss. This study aimed to explore the cultural perspectives of perinatal loss in Swati culture, South Africa. It adopted an exploratory qualitative approach, with 12 participants who engaged in an individual semi-structured interview conducted in English and SiSwati. Non-probability sampling methods were employed, as Swati parents who experienced perinatal loss were purposively selected for the study. Snowball sampling was used to include participants who were referred to the study and data saturation was monitored. The data was analysed using reflective thematic data analysis. To ensure there’s no harm to participants, the researcher employed and adhered to the ethics guidelines of confidentiality, anonymity, informed consent, and the right to withdraw. Ethics clearance was sought from the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (HS24/9/40) before data collection commenced. The analysis culminated into several themes which referred to traditional and religious beliefs; Swati constructions of fertility; subjective experiences of perinatal loss (e.g. pain; blame etc.); and specific cultural beliefs and coping. Swati parents navigated their loss through spiritual and cultural beliefs, associating perinatal loss to witchcraft, bad luck, darkness, ancestral anger, and God’s will. In response, participants referred to two types of cleansing (i.e., traditional and spiritual). The study calls for future research on the intersection of modernity and traditional beliefs following perinatal loss in a Swati culture as well as interventions that assist in processing of grief through a particular focus on cultural (in this case Swati) beliefs and practices. The salience of communal identity is foregrounded and the impact on the family unit is critical for intervention development in response to perinatal loss.
Preventative interventions for early adolescent substance use in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Mgidi, Jane Nonhlanhla
Substance use among adolescents remains a significant public health concern globally, with far-reaching implications for physical health, psychological wellbeing, and academic achievement. While there is a growing emphasis on preventative interventions, there is limited literature that addresses early adolescents (ages 10-14), particularly within Sub-Saharan Africa, due to contextual, legal, and health-related constraints. Given the vulnerabilities associated with this developmental phase, early adolescence presents a critical window for implementing prevention efforts and building long-term resilience. This study aimed to map out existing literature on preventative interventions for early adolescent substance use in Sub-Saharan Africa, with an objective to identify gaps and assess the applicability of these interventions within the South African context. A scoping review was employed as the research design and methodology, and the research question was developed using the PCC (population, concept, context) mnemonic. Literature searches were conducted on the University of the Western Cape’s library system, Ukwazi, which is freely accessible to students registered at the university, and Covidence was used as an online data management application to manage the search process and enhance the rigour of the study. Ethics approval for the study was obtained from the Humanities and Social Science Research Ethics Committee (HSSREC) at the UWC (HS24/7/3). A total of 2128 references were retrieved, of which eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed using Popay’s et al. (2006) narrative synthesis framework. The findings revealed three key themes: school-based interventions; family-structured strategies; and mass-media campaigns.
The exploration of mental health portrayals in men’s narratives in the South African Men’s Health magazine
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Mashaba, Mandisa
South Africa presents with the third highest suicide rate among all African nations, with men accounting for the largest of these fatalities. Despite this high morbidity among South African men, their mental health is often overlooked. Consequently, in this study, I explored how men’s mental health is portrayed in featured stories in the South African Men’s Health (SAMH) magazine. I located the study within social constructionist and utilised an explorative design from a qualitative approach. A sample of SAMH texts including: submitted letters as well as interviews from male readers, published from January 2014 until June 2023, constituted the final data sample. These were subjected to thematic decomposition analysis. Ethics clearance to conduct the study was obtained from the University of Western Cape’s (UWC) Humanities and Social Science Research and Ethics Committee (HSSREC). Thematic analysis of the data reveals that men struggle with an array of mental health issues including: -major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, atypical anorexia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Stigma and shame emerged as notable obstacles often rooted in societal expectations as well as personal fears curbing help-seeking behaviours.
An exploration of the experiences of parents with an adolescent child diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD): a family resilience perspective
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Murray, Jordynne
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health disorders globally, with high prevalence between early- and mid-adolescence. A diagnosis during this phase can have a profound effect on the family system with which the adolescent belongs. Using Walsh’s Family Resilience Framework (FRF), this study explored the subjective experiences of parents of adolescents who have/have had a formal diagnosis of MDD, and identified potential risk and resilience factors that these families may possess. The research study employed an exploratory research design, using a reflexive thematic analysis model and a qualitative data management software, Atlas.ti. The study recruited participants by means of purposive and snowball sampling methods, specifically via an advertisement posted on social media platforms and groups geared towards parenting. A total of five parents participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted in-person at a place private and convenient for participants. Prior to participating, participants were provided with an information sheet and consent form detailing their right to withdrawal, confidentiality, and anonymity as well as information pertaining to the nature, potential risks and benefits of participation. The analysis proved consistent with the interconnected and interactive dimensions outlined in Walsh’s (2012, 2016b) FRF. Shared, adaptive beliefs regarding MDD and its management were identified as a prominent protective factor, along with marital and social support, flexible organisational patterns, as well as clear communication as it pertains to boundaries and expectations regarding suicidality.
Exploring university students' subjective experiences of stress, coping, perceived social support, and psychological well-being in the context of teaching and learning during COVID-19
(University of the Western Cape, 2025) Olaniyi, Ifeoluwa Ayooluwa Jesuloba
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the lives of individuals globally, and university students have faced unique challenges due to disruptions in their academic, social, and personal lives. In a pre-COVID-19 survey, first-year students from 19 universities in 8 countries (Australia, Belgium, Germany, Mexico, Northern Ireland, South Africa, Spain, and the United States) had prevalence rates for suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt of 17.2%, 8.8%, and 1.0%, respectively over a 12-month period. University enrolment is an important moment when students face new obstacles such as making independent decisions, adjusting to academic expectations, and developing relationships with unfamiliar people. This research is important to understand how to encourage mental health in different populations. Students experience new problems after moving into the university setting, including decision-making, adjusting to academic obligations, and socializing with strangers. Located within Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (TMSC) as a framework, the present study used qualitative research methods, the present study aimed to explore the subjective experiences of stress, coping strategies, perceived social support, and psychological well-being among university students within the context of teaching and learning in the COVID-19 pandemic at a university in the Western Cape. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted to gain deeper insights into subjective experiences of stress, coping strategies, perceived social support, and psychological well-being among university students. The Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (HSSREC) approved the research before it was conducted at the University of the Western Cape (Ethics reference: HS23/7/34; Appendix A). The Office of the Registrar granted institutional permission to conduct research on students. The present study complied with all applicable data protection laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and the University’s Research Policy and Data Management Policy.
A scoping review of male victims of intimate partner violence: a social constructionist analysis
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Julies, Robin
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is regarded as a global public health issue. Amidst a global COVID-19 pandemic, incidents of IPV increased dramatically and has been labelled as a pandemic within itself. While a great deal of work has been done focusing on IPV, the extent of work focusing on men’s experiences and help-seeking behaviours as victims of IPV are limited. Typically, men are viewed and view themselves in specific contexts which are informed by their socialisation. This perception influences how men behave, process life - including crises and responses to said crises. This study aimed to determine the scope of knowledge that exists and identifies the extent of IPV where males are the victims and how social constructions of masculinity are reflected in peer reviewed literature around helpseeking behaviour of male victims of IPV. A scoping review methodology was used to address the aim of the study utilising the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley for scoping reviews as well as the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. The UWC library system was accessed: The Ebscohost meta-database was used, and the following databases were selected; Academic Search Complete; APA PsycArticles; ERIC; SAGE journals as well as Taylor and Francis online journals. Additionally, unpublished dissertations also available on the UWC research repository were searched and reviewed for inclusion.
Animal-assisted therapy in practice: experiences of professional practitioners in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Mamabolo, Koketso Nelly
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has gained much interest in healthcare settings internationally. AAT involves collaborating with animals to improve mental and physical health. Studies have shown that AAT can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and promote social support. However, implementing this complementary healing modality – and assessing its effectiveness – within health and social services is still lacking. The literature on AAT is minimal in the African context, but it is a growing area of interest. This study aims to understand the experiences of AAT professionals' (certified psychologists, psychiatrists, registered counsellors, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists, as well as professionals working in social services, education, and animal health and training), in terms of how animals are incorporated into the therapeutic setting and the benefits and challenges of practicing within AAT. A qualitative exploratory design was utilised to enable professional practitioners to describe their experience of integrating therapy animals into practice. Nine professional practitioners from across South Africa were recruited via purposive and snowball sampling. Information was obtained via semi-structured interviews which were facilitated through online platforms such as Zoom or Google Meets. Prochaska’s (1984) systems theory, six focused model and the triangular model of relational dynamics of AAT were employed to explore the triadic nature of the relationship between the therapist-animalclient. Data was analysed thematically using the method developed by Braun and Clarke (2012).
Exploring primary caregivers’ perceptions of children’s wellbeing during covid-19 within a low socioeconomic school context in the Cape Metropole
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Tafaranazvo, Sihle
The COVID-19 pandemic produced threatening and chaotic environments for children, thus heightening their vulnerability to its effects and on their overall wellbeing. Surveys across the world indicated that primary caregivers noticed COVID-19 lockdown-related behavioural problems in their children. Evidence from the literature indicated that COVID-19 prevention measures coupled with disrupted schooling for children, economic burdens for primary caregivers, and interrupted social life has generated a multitude of health challenges for many, including children. In low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC) such as South Africa, environmental security and safety already poses schooling challenges. Furthermore, within pandemic conditions, adequate environments conducive to remote learning was impossible due to the scarcity of digital learning resources caused by the inequity of resource distribution. Against this backdrop and adopting Bronfenbrenner’s ecological framework, this research aimed to explore primary caregivers’ perceptions of children’s wellbeing during COVID-19 within a low socio-economic status (SES) school context in the Cape Metropolitan city, in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Using an exploratory qualitative design, the research aimed to explore children's socio-economic status and school context as variables for their wellbeing which would add more information to an otherwise limited research pool. Eight purposively selected primary caregivers of school-age children in the age of 6-11 years and in the Foundation Phase attending a low SES school, participated in semi-structured interviews. Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis was employed to generate codes and formulate themes.
An exploration of the relationship between resilience, perceived stress, and attachment of undergraduate students at a university in the Western Cape.
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Nkuna, Munene
Perceived stress is associated with various factors that can exceed one’s resources to cope or manage stress. This can result in negative health outcomes and risky behaviours. The transition to university can be considered stressful and demanding, especially for undergraduate students. Research shows that undergraduate students are the most vulnerable to experiencing perceived stress due to adjusting to a new academic environment, experiencing additional freedom and associated risk factors, financial challenges, and exposure to trauma. Stressful events and adversity may impede an individual’s ability to develop positive outcomes and overcome challenges while remaining resilient. Adult attachment places a strong emphasis on social support systems and the development of healthy relationships as a protective factor against perceived stress and to enhance resilience. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between perceived stress, resilience, and attachment of undergraduate students at a university in the Western Cape, South Africa. Specifically, the study aimed to determine whether attachment styles mediated the relationship between resilience and perceived stress among undergraduate students. The Positive Psychology framework was used as a theoretical framework to guide the study. A cross-sectional survey design was used to investigate the aim and objectives of the study. The researcher obtained ethics clearance from the Humanities and Social Sciences Ethics Committee and permission to access students from the university’s Registrar’s office. The researcher ensured that informed consent is obtained from the participants before the commencement of the study. The study employed a non-probability convenience sampling to select research participants. The study utilised self-administered questionnaires, sent to participants via Google Forms. A total number of 256 undergraduate students participated in this study.
Measuring substance use in pregnant women: a systematic review
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Gqwede, Nyanisa
Introduction: Substance use during pregnancy is a pressing global public health and clinical concern. Tools to measure substance use during pregnancy can be used to ascertain harmful use of substances and related complications for the unborn child. Past studies have identified poor rates of detection of prenatal substance use. Consequently, prenatal substance use screening is a common feature to target prevention, treatment, and best practice guidelines. However, there is little information to support the selection of appropriate substance use screening tools for use with pregnant women. Study aim: The study aimed to systematically review the existing empirical research on screening methods (biological or self-report) used to detect substance use in pregnant women. The objectives of the study were: to identify types of screening methods used in empirical research studies to identify substance use in pregnant women, to determine the utility of these screening methods; and to determine the limitations of these screening methods.

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