Research Articles (CFS)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10566/6151

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 69

Visible space, invisible labour: waste work as assemblages in South African cities
(Springer Science and Business Media B.V., 2026) Loots, Olivia; Schenck, Catherina; Nell, Charlotte
This article sheds light on the often-invisible labour of informal waste reclaimers and the visible city spaces they occupy in South Africa. Using Deleuzoguattarian assemblage theory and Colin McFarlane’s, 2011 article on assemblages and critical urbanism as framework, we consider how various spaces for sourcing, sorting, and storing recyclable materials affect waste reclaimers’ lives and livelihoods. This is done by referring to original data from 1259 waste reclaimer surveys conducted in 25 South African towns and cities in 2023. By examining the rhizomatic dynamics between waste reclaimers, collected recyclable materials, and the spaces they occupy and work in, the article discusses how spatial constraints and opportunities shape waste reclaimers’ ability to act. It also delves into the broader implications of waste reclamation in the context of urban development and social inequality, underscoring the need for recognition of this essential work. This article provides a nuanced understanding of waste reclaimers movement in space, which is vital in reframing the public’s perception of their contribution, which in turn enhances their visibility and holds the potential to positively impact their livelihoods.
Understanding the relationship between family functioning and social cohesion in South Africa: a mixed-methods study
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2026) October, Kezia Ruth; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa; Danga, Solomon
Understanding how family functioning shapes social cohesion in South African communities offers insight into relational dynamics that sustain neighborhood well-being. This convergent parallel mixed-methods study examined associations between family functioning and neighborhood social cohesion in Cape Town. Quantitative data (N = 662) were collected using the Family Functioning Questionnaire and the Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire. Correlations showed positive associations between family cohesion and trust (r = 0.20), expressiveness and tolerance/respect (r = 0.20), and democratic family style and neighborhood attachment (r = 0.21). Family disengagement showed a small negative association with tolerance/respect (r = −0.11) and a small positive association with practical help (r = 0.17), an unexpected pattern interpreted cautiously. Qualitative interviews (n = 20) provided contextual depth, describing how open communication, shared caregiving, and supportive family networks enhance trust, belonging, reciprocity, and responsibility. Thematic analysis produced five themes spanning cohesion, expressiveness, conflict/disengagement, democratic family functioning, and authoritarian parenting as adaptation. Triangulation indicated that cohesive, expressive, and democratic family processes align with stronger neighborhood connectedness, while conflict and strictness were often described as forms of regulation rather than uniformly harmful. Findings support strengthening family-based interventions, parenting programs, and community policies that reinforce both family well-being and social connectedness.
From the traditional nursing home to an EHPAD (elderly care facility). Institutional changes and psychological challenges of end-of-life care. History, organization, and paradoxes of the living-care environment
(Elsevier Masson SAS., 2026-02-26) Bouchard, Jean-Pierre; Nieuviarts, Nicholas; Albert, Francis
This article is the first in a series of four papers devoted to Établissements d'Hébergement pour Personnes Aînés Dependantes (EHPAD, French long-term residential care facilities for dependent elderly adults). The first volume (I) analyzes the historical and institutional transition from the former "retirement/nursing home" to the modern EHPAD, highlighting the contemporary paradoxes inherent in the "living-care environment": clashes between the home-like model and hospital-based approach, between security issues and freedom of movement, between managerial rationalization and the recognition of subjectivity. By integrating demographic data, legal frameworks, and assessment tools (AGGIR, PATHOS), the study examines their effect on the quality of life, the temporality of dying, and the psychic containment provided within institutions. The second paper will explore the subjective experiences of residents and their relatives — including transitions, consent, relational bonds, and loss. The third will propose a comprehensive approach to palliative care in an EHPAD, integrating psychological, social, and legal dimensions around the medical axis. The fourth will focus on clinical and organizational expertise within an EHPAD — addressing issues of sexuality, addictions, grief, behavioral disorders, and the environmental development of the living space. These interviews, undertaken and conducted by Professor Jean-Pierre Bouchard, a clinical psychologist, bring together a multidisciplinary group of professionals — clinical psychologists and researchers, a geriatrician and facility coordinator, a neuropsychologist and nursing home director, and a professor of private law and criminal sciences — offer a pluralistic, dialogical, and interdisciplinary perspective of the contemporary challenges in institutional care. Through a series of cross-disciplinary interviews, the reader is invited to explore the ethical, clinical, and existential complexity of palliative care in an EHPAD, examining how these institutions might once again become settings of life, relationships, and meaning, rather than mere systems of maintenance or dependency management. The authors advocate for the development — with the support of public authorities — of a genuine palliative culture of presence and relational care, centered on recognizing the individual in their vulnerability and desires. Grounded in the concept that subjectivity is at the very heart of care, this approach invites us to reimagine the EHPAD as a space of hospitality, where the elderly person remains a subject of history, memory, and temporality, even when faced with their own mortality.
Community-based primary care approaches to supporting families of children with developmental disabilities: experts' perspectives using the capabilities framework
(AOSIS (Pty) Ltd, 2025) Magidigidi-Mathiso, Lumnka; Frantz, Jose; Filies, Gerald
Background: Families raising children with developmental disabilities face complex, interconnected challenges requiring coordinated support across multiple professional domains. While interdisciplinary collaboration is widely endorsed in policy and practice guidelines, significant knowledge gaps exist regarding how healthcare professionals operationalise these collaborative approaches in real-world settings. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using individual semi-structured interviews with 12 experts representing diverse disciplines. The study was grounded in the Capabilities Approach as both a theoretical lens and a methodological framework. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis, with the Capabilities Approach framework informing each analytical phase. Results: Five major themes emerged from the capability-guided analysis: facilitating emotional transformation, building system navigation competence, creating inclusive participation opportunities, strengthening family functioning and fostering adaptive identity development. Across all themes, participants consistently emphasised three critical mechanisms for effective interdisciplinary support: coordinated care delivery as capability enhancement, comprehensive emotional support as capability development and whole-family capability strengthening interventions. Conclusion: The findings highlight the significance of interdisciplinary approaches informed by the Capabilities Approach in providing comprehensive support for parents of children with developmental disabilities. Rather than traditional deficit-focused models, participants systematically described how they enhance family capabilities by functioning as capability facilitators who orchestrate conversion factors, build emotional capabilities while respecting family agency and create environmental modifications that expand family possibilities. Contribution: This study contributes a novel capability-focused framework for understanding interdisciplinary collaboration in developmental disability support, moving beyond traditional service coordination models to emphasise systematic capability enhancement approaches that build sustainable family strengths across multiple domains simultaneously.
Methodologies of care: a multimodal, participatory research approach with vulnerable families among South African communities
(MDPI, 2026) Reid, James; Johannes, Chanté; Wareley, Shenaaz; Ngadhi, Collen Mafira; Nginase, Avukonke; Demetriou, Katerina; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa
Multimodal methods provide valuable opportunities within Participatory Action Research (PAR), to foster meaningful participation, and amplify marginalized voices. However, conventional research approaches have not always adequately captured the complex realities of the lived experiences of families, and multimodal techniques have remained underutilized for the exploration of such experiences. This study aimed to explore the use of creative multimodal methods, within a PAR framework, grounded in care among vulnerable South African families. A qualitative design was adopted, incorporating human-centered design principles, within a PAR approach. The participants were recruited from the Saldanha Bay Municipality area (n = 70), as well as Mitchells Plain (n = 59). The multimodal methodology included Draw-and-Tell, painting, object and photo elicitation, I-Poems, and LEGO®-based activities. Data were annotated and transcribed verbatim, followed by thematic analysis. A total of 42 participants contributed towards the validation of the methods. The participants described experiences of deep emotional insight, self-reflection, and self-recognition, through engagement with the multimodal activities. The findings revealed that these approaches were: (1) credible, producing internally valid and contextually rich data; (2) contributory, generating original and applicable insights into family life; (3) communicable, offering accessible and structured ways for diverse participants to express their experiences; and (4) conforming, ensuring ethical engagement through inclusive participation. These findings demonstrate the potential of creative, arts-based, and participatory approaches, to advance methodological innovation in qualitative family research.
Understanding the relationship between family functioning and social cohesion in South Africa: a mixed-methods study
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2026) October, Kezia Ruth; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa; Danga, Solomon Dribsa
Understanding how family functioning shapes social cohesion in South African communities offers insight into relational dynamics that sustain neighborhood well-being. This convergent parallel mixed-methods study examined associations between family functioning and neighborhood social cohesion in Cape Town. Quantitative data (N = 662) were collected using the Family Functioning Questionnaire and the Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire. Correlations showed positive associations between family cohesion and trust (r = 0.20), expressiveness and tolerance/respect (r = 0.20), and democratic family style and neighborhood attachment (r = 0.21). Family disengagement showed a small negative association with tolerance/respect (r = −0.11) and a small positive association with practical help (r = 0.17), an unexpected pattern interpreted cautiously. Qualitative interviews (n = 20) provided contextual depth, describing how open communication, shared caregiving, and supportive family networks enhance trust, belonging, reciprocity, and responsibility. Thematic analysis produced five themes spanning cohesion, expressiveness, conflict/disengagement, democratic family functioning, and authoritarian parenting as adaptation. Triangulation indicated that cohesive, expressive, and democratic family processes align with stronger neighborhood connectedness, while conflict and strictness were often described as forms of regulation rather than uniformly harmful. Findings support strengthening family-based interventions, parenting programs, and community policies that reinforce both family well-being and social connectedness.
Analysing the role and job creation potential of buy-back centres along the South African beverage polyethylene terephthalate value chain: a circular economy perspective
(SAGE Publications Ltd, 2026) Van Hille, Nicky; Van Hille, Robert Paul; Schenck, Catherina Johanna Rinie
The rate of plastic consumption is predicted to grow at an increasing rate beyond 2050, with plastic waste reaching as much as 873 million tonnes by 2050. The drive towards a circular plastics economy means that plastic waste represents a growing resource, with the potential to contribute significantly to job creation and economic activity, particularly in developing countries. However, this potential is not currently being realised, highlighting the need for strategic interventions. In 2020 extended producer responsibility, one mechanism available to enable the circular plastics economy, was legislated in South Africa. One of the requirements for producer responsibility organisations is to report on job creation. This study investigated the beverage polyethylene terephthalate (PET) value chain and identified the critical and poorly understood role of buy-back centres (BBCs) in the system. A survey of 52 BBCs, covering 8 of the 9 provinces, was conducted to understand material flows, operating and financial models and staffing requirements. The BBC sector is estimated to employ over 15,500 full-time equivalents, the majority (68%) unskilled or semi-skilled workers, and contribute over R1.66 billion in wages and salaries. Beverage PET accounts for approximately 19% of the material handled, directly contributing to over 3000 jobs. Key findings of the research were the difference between the various categories of BBCs operating in South Africa referred to as ‘aggregators’ and ‘pre-processors’ and the critical role played by ‘bakkie collectors’, as an essential link for informal collectors.
Social work practice following the COVID-19 pandemic: reflections from Brazil, India and Scotland
(SAGE Publications Ltd, 2025) Garcia, Maria Lúcia Teixeira; Spolander, Gary; Leal, Fabiola; Adaikalam, Francis; Gibson, Neil
COVID-19 impacted globally, on individual health, care systems and social reproduction. Excessive death, lockdowns and social policy change had immediate and long-term national and global implications. Attention has been given to the immediate consequences, including its disproportionate impact on parts of society such as older people, “black” and “ethnic minorities”, and migrants. This raises questions for social work about wider enduring lessons including social inequality and globalisation. Reflecting across three countries, we encourage debate on future professional lessons, recognising constraints the pandemic has imposed and the dilemma of relying on historical precedents, of which we now find we have none.
How the COVID-19 pandemic worsened intimate partner violence: findings from a South Africa high-risk community study
(KeAi Communications Co., 2025) Wang, Xichen; Zhang, Sheldon X; Bender, Annah K; Koegler, Erica L; Rich, Edna G; Price, Rumi Kato
Background: Researchers have been extensively studying the detrimental effects wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic on many aspects of human life. However, there is little empirical research from the Global South on COVID-19 and its impact on intimate partner violence (IPV). Objective: This study sought to explore whether the pandemic-induced effects, such as financial stress, physical health issues, and psychological distress, also increased IPV victimization. Methods: A structured survey was administered to 665 residents who self-identified as having experienced increased risks of human trafficking in low-income communities in Cape Town, South Africa, during January–October 2021, at the height of COVID-19. IPV measures were applied to those (N = 418) who reported having had an intimate partner in the past 12 months. Results: Most respondents were born in South Africa. Half of them reported having experienced IPV in the past year. The ordinal regression full model showed that housing insecurity (AOR = 1.67; CI, 1.03–2.70) and mental health concerns (AOR = 1.57; CI, 1.13–2.19) were significant predictors of IPV (p < .05), controlling for other sociodemographic measures. Race (Black, AOR = 0.20; CI, 0.09–0.43), gender (female, AOR = 1.80; CI, 1.17–2.76), and arranged marriage (AOR = 1.97; CI, 1.17–3.32) were also significantly associated with IPV victimization. Conclusion: Housing insecurity and mental health were the most important COVID-induced stressors in elevating IPV victimization during the pandemic. Furthermore, other structural factors, such as race, gender, and arranged marriage, were also strong predictors of IPV victimization in an already vulnerable South African urban community.
A conceptual model for strengthening family capabilities through a process of care
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Reid, James; Johannes, Chanté; Wareley, Shenaaz; Ngadhi, Collen; Nginase, Avukonke; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa
Family capabilities shape the well-being of individuals and families, particularly in diverse sociocultural contexts. However, existing frameworks often fail to capture the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in South Africa. This limitation is addressed in this study by developing a new conceptual model, through an ethic of care lens, to understand family. A Human-Centered Design strategy is employed, utilizing workshops to gather and deductively interpret data. A sample of 53 participants is recruited from two communities in South Africa. The Listening Guide approach is used to analyze the data, alongside thematic analysis, to identify overarching themes. The findings reveal tangible needs (material and physical requirements), as well as intangible needs (emotional and psychological support). The relation between these needs and harms highlights how care is shaped in families. While families endeavor to meet intangible needs, many fail to communicate these intangible needs, which also leads to harm. This is exacerbated when the primary caregiver within the family, the ‘glue’, has needs for care that are not met. In addition, the findings reveal the interrelatedness of care in family dynamics among family members, and help to explore the boundaries, capacities, and capabilities of what families do and how they care.
Messages for UK social work doctoral education: a narrative synthesis of global north social work doctorate literature
(Routledge, 2025) Santos-Petiot, Joanna; Spolander, Gary; Garcia, Maria Lúcia Teixeira
Social work, grounded in values of social justice, relies on doctoral education to advance evidence-informed practice. From a United Kingdom (UK) perspective, little is known about the challenges associated with social work doctoral degrees. This paper presents a narrative review of English-language social work doctoral education literature, situating it within the broader contexts of UK higher education and workforce dynamics. The review highlights six overarching themes: (1) diversity and inclusion, (2) mentorship to support doctoral study, (3) financial barriers and student debt, (4) distinctions between traditional PhDs and other doctoral routes, (5) the academy’s changing agendas of research productivity and scholarly engagement, and (6) curriculum and pedagogical development. The review reveals how neoliberal trends in higher education disproportionately impact marginalized students and constrain critical inquiry. The intersection of these challenges with the profession’s struggles with workforce retention, increasing managerialism and focus on technocratic competencies over critical engagement, emphasizes that the profession is at the fulcrum of several forces, which limit completion of doctoral programs. The paper calls for flexible and inclusive doctoral frameworks that align with the profession’s mission of fostering systemic change and social equity by addressing structural and workforce challenges to enhance access to doctoral education.
Exploring the implementation of HIV/AIDS policies for learner support in Western Cape schools in South Africa
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2026) Roman, Nicolette Vanessa; Mitchell, Frederick Rudolf; Adebiyi, Babatope; Mutiso, Moses Mutua; Johannes, Chanté
Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remains a critical public health concern globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa most profoundly impacted. South Africa requires schools to implement HIV/AIDS policies aimed at supporting affected learners. This study investigates how these policies are enacted in Western Cape schools, emphasizing the scope and limitations of the support offered. Methods: Employing the Ecological Systems Theory, a qualitative study was conducted between July 2020 and March 2021, with a purposeful sample of 40 participants, comprising 20 School Management Team members and 20 Life Orientation (LO) teachers. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically via Atlas Ti.V8. Results: Results revealed six major themes focusing on critical factors such as educator preparedness, stigma, resource shortages, leadership variation, external partnerships, and gaps between policy and practice. Although HIV/AIDS policies provide a vital framework for learner support, their effectiveness is undermined by inconsistent training, persistent stigma, insufficient funding, and variable leadership commitment. Conversely, strong internal mechanisms, such as School-Based Support Teams, and collaborative ties with non-government organizations (NGOs) and healthcare providers significantly bolster policy execution. Discussion: The findings highlight the necessity of integrating HIV/AIDS policies into the everyday practices of schools, anchored by comprehensive training, adequate resources, and proactive leadership. This would ultimately promote Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good health and well-being. Conclusion: Recommendations include intensifying educator professional development, implementing targeted anti-stigma initiatives, securing consistent resource allocation, and expanding external collaborations, thereby offering valuable insights into future research and interventions aimed at enhancing support for HIV/AIDS -affected learners.
What can we learn about academic identity from allied careprofessions? messages for the social work academy
(Routledge, 2026) Santos-Petiot, Joanna; Spolander, Gary; Hafford-Letchfield, Trish
Academic identity influences disciplinary contributions and profes-sional development of individuals within those disciplines. Little isknown about academic identity within the social work discipline.This paper presents the results of a modified systematic interna-tional literature review to investigate academic identity in socialwork, nursing and allied care professions. Papers (138) were initiallyretrieved for screening, 40 met the final inclusion criteria for review.Limited social work academic identity literature was identified, withonly four papers specifically focused on social work. Results high-lighted numerous barriers to establishing a distinct academic iden-tity, with a multitude of challenges in transition from practice toacademia and its dual identities of practitioner and scholar. Theprocess of academic socialization requires adequate institutionalpreparation, collegial support, sense of community and relational-ity, and not least time. We discuss four key themes from thisliterature (1) temporality and dynamic nature of developing aca-demic identity in the academy, (2) role of professional work cultureand communities of practice, (3) legitimacy, visibility and dichoto-mies of professional, disciplinary and academic knowledge andskills and (4) strategic imperatives for supporting transitions forthe helping professions. The implications for social work academicidentity development, social work education and social workknowledge are discussed.
Navigating an interprofessional curriculum: the interprofessional education passport and the quest for an interprofessional identity
(Taylor and Francis Ltd, 2026) Africa, Luzaan; Jaffer, Labeeqah; Filies, Gerard; Nyati, Lukhanyo H; Gamiet, Shamila; Nyalungu, Pholoso
Interprofessional education (IPE) is recognized globally as essential for preparing healthcare students to collaborate effectively in practice. A critical but underexplored aspect of IPE is the development of an interprofessional identity. However, many curricula still prioritize competency-based outcomes, creating a gap in addressing identity formation. The University of the Western Cape employed an IPE passport to develop students’ interprofessional identity. We aimed to evaluate whether the IPE passport effectively develops and assesses students’ interprofessional identity. Using a document analysis design, IPE student guides, booklets, and rubrics were systematically assessed through a four-step methodology against the Interprofessional Socialisation Framework and the IPE passport’s activities were assessed against Rubric Interprofessional Identity Development’s criteria. Findings revealed a disconnect between competency-focused assessment and identity-focused outcomes, highlighting the need for intentional scaffolding of identity development throughout the curriculum. In response, an IPE Passport model is proposed, integrating Interprofessional Entrustable Professional Activities and combining analytic and holistic rubrics to support identity-based assessment. This approach reframes assessment as not only measuring what students can do, but also who they are becoming as collaborative practitioners. This study demonstrates how theoretically grounded tools can guide institutions in embedding interprofessional identity development into IPE curricula, particularly in resource-constrained contexts.
Acts of good neighborliness as pathways to social cohesion in South African communities
(MDPI, 2026) Roman, Nicolette V; Olabiyi, Olaniyi J; Balogun, Tolulope V; Caswell, Dominique; Lange, Janine De; Hendricks, Anja Human; Khaile, Fundiswa T; October, Kezia R
Cohesion among individuals reflects the quality of relationships and interpersonal interaction within a community. Elements such as social connections, trust, and a sense of belonging serve as key indicators of societal cohesion and are often rooted in acts of good neighborliness. Despite this, limited knowledge exists regarding perceptions and behaviors related to good neighborliness within South African society. The present study examines how perceptions and practices of good neighborliness contribute to the development of cohesive communities. Research was conducted in four South African communities: Philippolis, Lambert’s Bay, Caledon, and Grabouw. Utilizing an interpretivist approach, the study adopted a qualitative methodology involving interviews with 25 participants, including family members and community stakeholders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, and thematic analysis facilitated the identification of recurring patterns and key themes. The principal themes identified were everyday mutual support and practical assistance, moral norms and values of care, social familiarity and community connectedness, trust and good neighborliness, and intergroup relations and cohesion across diversity. The findings demonstrate the crucial role of good neighborliness in advancing social cohesion. For communities and families to thrive, it is vital that members experience safety and cultivate trusting relationships, which often requires openness about their vulnerabilities and needs.
Voices in motion: using I-poems to uncover undergraduate university students’ psychosocial journey and physical activity behaviours
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Johannes, Chanté; Reid, James; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa
Physical inactivity is a pervasive global public health concern, yet there is limited qualitative research exploring the psychosocial dimensions of physical activity (PA) among undergraduate students at a South African university. Therefore, this study aimed to explore students’ PA participation, by providing insights into the psychosocial factors that shape their experiences. Interviews were conducted with 18 undergraduate university students between July and August 2023. I-poems, a creative qualitative method, were created from interview transcripts by isolating sentences featuring the pronoun “I” and arranging them into poetic stanzas without altering their sequence. This approach amplifies the participants’ voices, offering an authentic window into their lived experiences. Data was coded using the Atlas Ti v.8 software and thematically analysed to generate common themes. The I-poems revealed rich, layered insights from students regarding the psychosocial aspects of PA, highlighting themes such as mental health, motivation and social support. By centring the participants’ “I” narratives, the method foregrounded their voices, enabling a deeper exploration of their embodied PA experiences. This study highlights the potential of I-poems as a creative qualitative method to explore the intricacies of students’ PA journeys. The findings highlight the importance of considering psychosocial factors in understanding PA engagement, offering valuable subjective perspectives for designing contextually relevant and university student-tailored interventions that are suitable.
Applying the social ecological model to explore physical activity levels and psychosocial factors among undergraduate university students: a narrative literature review
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2025) Johannes, ChantÉ; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa
Physical activity is vital for supporting holistic well-being. However, undergraduate university students often report low levels of participation, which has a detrimental influence on psychosocial factors (such as mental health, motivation, and social support). Limited studies have critically applied the Social Ecological Model to understand physical activity participation and psychosocial factors among students. This up-to-date critical narrative review explores the application of the Social Ecological Model to understand undergraduate university students’ physical activity levels and psychosocial factors. Databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and SPORT Discus) were searched to identify relevant studies published in English and available in full text, using key terms such as “social-ecological model,” “physical activity,” “exercise,” “psychosocial factors,” “undergraduate,” “university,” and “students.” Articles were selected based on their relevance to the Social Ecological Model framework and physical activity. The review highlights key psychosocial factors, including mental health, motivation, and social support. Barriers, such as academic pressures, inadequate resources, and unsupportive environments, are also explored within the Social Ecological Model framework. While the model offers valuable insights into diverse influences on physical activity, this study critiques its limitations, particularly its limited consideration of cultural and technological factors that shape students’ contemporary experiences. This review highlights the value of the Social Ecological Model in understanding the factors that influence physical activity levels among undergraduate university students. University policies should adopt a multilevel approach to promote physical activity. Future research should address the model’s gaps regarding cultural diversity and technological influences to refine the model and inform tailored physical activity promotion strategies.
Informal repairers and refurbishers of electrical and electronic products in the South African township economy
(Routledge, 2026) Schenck, Catherina; Loots, Olivia; Niyobuhungiro, Rissa; Grobler, Lizette
This exploratory study investigates the largely unexamined role of 832 informal repairers and refurbishers of electrical and electronic products within 11 cities and towns in South Africa’s e-waste value chain. Positioned within the circular economy framework, which emphasizes reuse, recovery, and recycling, repairing and refurbishment, this research explored the role and activities of these informal workers, as part of the township economy. The data was collected using a questionnaire and containing quantitative and qualitative clarification questions. Qualitative narrative data were thematically analysed using AtlasTi. Quantitative data were analysed with IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 29) and Microsoft Excel. Findings reveal that, despite their social, economic and environmental contributions to the sustainability of the cities and towns, repairers face challenges related to limited access to funding, tools, adequate spaces, and regulatory support. This study underscores the need for contextually sensitive interventions that provide financial, infrastructural, and training support, without compromising township norms.
The mental maze: a mixed-methods approach to understanding undergraduate student mental health at a South African university
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2025) Johannes, Chanté; Danga, Solomon Dribsa; Roman, Nicolette Vanessa
Introduction: Depression, anxiety, and stress have been identified as global public health concerns among young adults, such as undergraduate university students. Limited studies have explored mental health through a mixed-methodological approach. Therefore, this study aimed to determine and explore the prevalence of mental health challenges among undergraduate students at a South African university. Methods: Using the sequential explanatory design, quantitative data were conveniently collected through the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) (n = 534), and analysed using SPSS v.29. Semi-structured interviews commenced with a convenient sample of undergraduate students (n = 18) and thematically analysed using ATLAS.ti v.8. Results: Results revealed a high prevalence of extremely severe anxiety among undergraduate students; 41.5% of males and 39.9% of females were affected. On-campus students reported higher anxiety levels (42.6%). Third- and fourth-year students exhibited the highest rates of extremely severe anxiety at 60% and 65.5%, respectively. The prevalence of anxiety was the highest among the Dentistry (60.4%), Law (59.6%), and Education (46.4%) faculties. Qualitatively, six key themes emerged: perceptions of mental health, coping mechanisms, sources of support, barriers to seeking help, stigma and awareness, and strategies for mental health maintenance. Discussion: While females reported slightly higher levels of depression and stress, males exhibited a higher prevalence of extremely severe anxiety. Relationship status, living arrangements, academic year, and faculty affiliation significantly influenced mental health outcomes. Conclusion: University policies must integrate tailored strategies to foster inclusive, sustainable mental health support systems, promoting Sustainable Development Goal 3 (good health and well-being).
Interventions directed at reducing high risk-taking behaviour in adolescents: a RE-AIM framework review
(Taylor and Francis Ltd., 2025) Mate, Rumbidzai Kangira; Erasmus, Charlene; Yassin, Zeenat
This study presents a systematic review of existing literature on interventions aimed at reducing high risk-taking behaviour among adolescents. A RE-AIM systematic review methodology was applied to search electronic databases and journals, including Academic Search Complete, Medline, ERIC, African Journals Online, PsycArticles, JSTOR, and Sage Journals, covering the period from January 2010 to December 2024. Included studies were peer-reviewed, full text, and in English; they focused on adolescents aged between 9 and 19 years and employed quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods approaches to examine interventions directed at reducing high risk-taking behaviour in adolescents. The review process followed four steps: Identification, Screening, Eligibility, and Inclusion. A descriptive meta-synthesis analysis was conducted to extract and integrate the findings.

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