Magister Social Work -MSW

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Factors in the normative culture and context of previous ‘model-c’ schools that leads to the bullying of learners, within a selected Western Cape region
(University of the Western Cape, 2024) Swart, Clara-Mari; Mandlana, Asandile Arthur
The prevalence of bullying or victimisation of learners in South African schools increased during the past years. The normative culture and school context contribute to the increase in bullying. South Africa, like international trends, experiences significant challenges with school safety and bullying. These challenges undermine the school environment that is not enabling and supportive of the academic and personal development of victims of bullying. The research aim was to understand the factors in the normative culture and context of previous ‘Model-C’ schools, which leads to bullying of learners This study used a qualitative research approach with exploratory and descriptive research designs. The research population included grade six and seven boys and girls. The researcher used purposive sampling and selected four boys and six girls from Grades six and seven as well as five educators for the study. Data collection encompassed semi-structured interviews. The research complied with all the ethical guidelines of the research and included the assurance of anonymity, and the participants had the right to participate and/or withdraw from the study at any stage. The researcher used thematic analysis to understand the factors in normative culture and context of previous ‘Model-C ‘schools that lead to the bullying of learners.
An exploration of the challenges experienced by social work supervisors when rendering social work supervision in the department of social development in the Cape Metropole during the covid-19 pandemic
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Balie, Monique; Davids, Ronel
The World Health Organization affirms that COVID-19 is an infectious respiratory disease that originated in China in 2019. COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic and, on the 27 March 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa, implemented a national lockdown in South Africa after the first COVID-19 case on 05 March 2020. Social workers were among the first frontline workers globally and locally who rendered services during COVID-19. Social work supervision was crucial to support social workers during the rendering of these services. Social work supervisors however experienced challenges in rendering such support during a pandemic. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the challenges experienced by social work supervisors when rendering supervision to frontline social workers amidst COVID-19 within the Department of Social Development in the Cape Metropole. The researcher selected a qualitative research approach as it focused on the experiences from the perspective of those who were affected by the phenomenon. The researcher selected exploratory and descriptive research designs to explore and describe a relatively new phenomenon. The researcher used purposive sampling and selected participants according to specific inclusion criteria. Data collection comprised of ten interviews which provided rich data and continued until data saturation.
An exploration of social workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills in service delivery with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) clients in the Cape Metropole
(Universty of the Western Cape, 2024) Fourie, Johan Arnold; Hendricks, Anja Human
Social workers are compelled to recognise and respect diversity when they practise in the multicultural South African context. Research, globally, on the knowledge, attitudes, and skills applied by social workers during their practice with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) populations however found the contrary. The aim of this qualitative research study was to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and skills of social workers rendering services to LGBT clients at the Department of Social Development (DSD) in the Cape Metropole. The first objective of the study was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitudes, and skills of social workers during their service delivery to LGBT clients. Another objective was to explore and describe strategies to empower social workers with the required knowledge, attitudes, and skills to provide competent social work practice with LGBT clients. The study was based on Tronto’s (1993) ethics of care as theoretical framework. Ethical approval was obtained from the HSSREC at UWC and the REC of the DSD in the Western Cape Province to conduct the research.
Towards professional identity: The development of the self among student social workers through storytelling
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) van Heerden, Marika; Van der Westhuizen, Marichen
This study responded to an identified need to explore ways to include personal experiences in learning and teaching activities to support the development of the self and professional identity formation. The research questions of how student social workers can be empowered to develop the self and the professional identity through storytelling, as well as how the Appreciative Inquiry model can be used as a framework for storytelling in learning and teaching activities guided the study. The aim was to explore and describe 1) how storytelling can empower students to develop and integrate the self and the professional identity, and 2) how the Appreciative Inquiry model can be used as a framework for storytelling in learning and teaching activities.
Towards professional identity: The development of the self among student social workers through storytelling
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) van Heerden, Marika; Van der Westhuizen, Marichen
This study responded to an identified need to explore ways to include personal experiences in learning and teaching activities to support the development of the self and professional identity formation. The research questions of how student social workers can be empowered to develop the self and the professional identity through storytelling, as well as how the Appreciative Inquiry model can be used as a framework for storytelling in learning and teaching activities guided the study. The aim was to explore and describe 1) how storytelling can empower students to develop and integrate the self and the professional identity, and 2) how the Appreciative Inquiry model can be used as a framework for storytelling in learning and teaching activities.
Social workers’ experiences regarding the use of the transtheoretical model of change in involuntary treatment of a substance use disorder
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Cupido, Jonathan; Van Der Westhuizen, Marichen
Substance use and abuse is a global problem that impact the person, the family, community, and society at large. Continuous abuse of substances may result in substance use disorders (SUDs). Changes to the brain, withdrawal symptoms, cravings, as well as repeated unsuccessful attempts to cease the use of substances, contribute to persons with a SUD being unmotivated and resistant to entering treatment. The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) of Change has been identified as framework that could assist social workers to support the development of internal motivation, and thereby voluntary participation in treatment options. However, it is not known how social workers utilise this framework, what their experiences with the use of the TTM are, and what challenges they experience within the South African context. Thus, this study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of social workers regarding the use of the TTM of Change in involuntary treatment of a SUD in the Western Cape.
Social workers’ experiences regarding the use of the transtheoretical model of change in involuntary treatment of a substance use disorder
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Cupido, Jonathan; Van Der Westhuizen, Marichen
Substance use and abuse is a global problem that impact the person, the family, community, and society at large. Continuous abuse of substances may result in substance use disorders (SUDs). Changes to the brain, withdrawal symptoms, cravings, as well as repeated unsuccessful attempts to cease the use of substances, contribute to persons with a SUD being unmotivated and resistant to entering treatment. The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) of Change has been identified as framework that could assist social workers to support the development of internal motivation, and thereby voluntary participation in treatment options. However, it is not known how social workers utilise this framework, what their experiences with the use of the TTM are, and what challenges they experience within the South African context. Thus, this study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of social workers regarding the use of the TTM of Change in involuntary treatment of a SUD in the Western Cape.
The experiences of residents at a homeless shelter
(University of Western Cape, 2010) Mango, Vongai; De Jager, MS
Background: Homelessness is a worldwide problem that has affected so many people. In the developed countries, there has been lots of research done to understand what it is and how this problem can be eradicated. In the developing countries, there are few studies that have been done and most people do not really understand what homelessness is and what impact it has on the individual and the society in whole. The researcher identified a lack of research on the homeless and understanding the experiences of these individuals.
The experiences of residents at a homeless shelter
(University of Western Cape, 2010) Mango, Vongai; De Jager, MS
Background: Homelessness is a worldwide problem that has affected so many people. In the developed countries, there has been lots of research done to understand what it is and how this problem can be eradicated. In the developing countries, there are few studies that have been done and most people do not really understand what homelessness is and what impact it has on the individual and the society in whole. The researcher identified a lack of research on the homeless and understanding the experiences of these individuals.
The experiences of residents at a homeless shelter
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Mango, Vongai; De Jager, MS
Homelessness is a worldwide problem that has affected so many people. In the developed countries, there has been lots of research done to understand what it is and how this problem can be eradicated. In the developing countries, there are few studies that have been done and most people do not really understand what homelessness is and what impact it has on the individual and the society in whole. The researcher identified a lack of research on the homeless and understanding the experiences of these individuals.
The experiences of residents at a homeless shelter
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Mango, Vongai; De Jager, MS
Homelessness is a worldwide problem that has affected so many people. In the developed countries, there has been lots of research done to understand what it is and how this problem can be eradicated. In the developing countries, there are few studies that have been done and most people do not really understand what homelessness is and what impact it has on the individual and the society in whole. The researcher identified a lack of research on the homeless and understanding the experiences of these individuals.
Exploring the health, well-being and support of social work students at a selected university
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Brown, Adwina; Dykes, Glynnis
The purpose of this research study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of social work students at a selected university in three areas: health, well-being and support. The research approach used was qualitative and the research design was phenomenological, since it required the researcher to focus on participants’ lived experiences in three thematic areas. Three specific questions were asked of the participants of the study. These were: (i) Describe a particular situation in which you experienced an emotional event(s) while on campus that affected your studies thereafter; (ii) How did this event and experience affect your health and well-being (physical, spiritual, emotional, mental, intellectual, financial, social or in terms of occupational health)? (iii) What are the kinds of support you needed and used at the university
Exploring the health, well-being and support of social work students at a selected university
(University of the Western Cape, 2023) Brown, Adwina; Dykes, Glynnis
The purpose of this research study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of social work students at a selected university in three areas: health, well-being and support. The research approach used was qualitative and the research design was phenomenological, since it required the researcher to focus on participants’ lived experiences in three thematic areas. Three specific questions were asked of the participants of the study. These were: (i) Describe a particular situation in which you experienced an emotional event(s) while on campus that affected your studies thereafter; (ii) How did this event and experience affect your health and well-being (physical, spiritual, emotional, mental, intellectual, financial, social or in terms of occupational health)? (iii) What are the kinds of support you needed and used at the university
Exploring the experiences of individuals diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type ii, and their significant others’ caring for them
(University of the Western Cape, 2022) Koegelenberg, Elnéri; Erasmus, Charlene
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable disease (NCD) with an increase in prevalence. The debilitating consequences of this disease include mortality, morbidity, a decrease in quality of life, with an enormous financial and social burden on the diagnosed person and their significant others. The global prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus type II (DMII) is escalating with similar consequences on individuals and families. Individuals find the acceptance of the disease and necessary lifestyle changes challenging which result in poor health decisions with non-adherence to treatment, financial limitations, emotional, physiological, and psychosocial discomfort. The aim of this research was to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of those living with DMII and their significant others caring for them.
Exploring the experiences of individuals diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type ii, and their significant others’ caring for them
(University of the Western Cape, 2022) Koegelenberg, Elnéri; Erasmus, Charlene
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable disease (NCD) with an increase in prevalence. The debilitating consequences of this disease include mortality, morbidity, a decrease in quality of life, with an enormous financial and social burden on the diagnosed person and their significant others. The global prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus type II (DMII) is escalating with similar consequences on individuals and families. Individuals find the acceptance of the disease and necessary lifestyle changes challenging which result in poor health decisions with non-adherence to treatment, financial limitations, emotional, physiological, and psychosocial discomfort. The aim of this research was to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of those living with DMII and their significant others caring for them.
Evaluation of the community participation process of build a better society (BABS) Western Cape
(University of the Western Cape, 1997) Jacobs, Laurence Peter; September, William
The study was undertaken of Build A Better Society (BABS) Western Cape because a comparison of the membership and public profile of the organisation from the time of its inception to recent times showed a decrease in its activities. Feasible explanations in changes in the political system and funding priorities could be established to account for the reduction in community participation. However, there is a lack of information on community organisation projects in this country and, until recently, a dearth of literature on the subject of community participation as very few projects have been systematically evaluated and published which could have provided another explanation for the decrease. Registered as a welfare organisation, BABS is regarded as one of the pioneering community work organisations in Cape Town. It became a model for several organisations in the Western Cape who adopted its philosophy and formally constituted as affiliates. The aims, therefore, of the study were to examine whether the programmes of the organisation were successful in eliciting community participation, the extent of this involvement and whether this involvement was sustained over time; to describe the efforts of the staff and members in applying the techniques and procedures inherent in the community participation process; to describe the impact of this process on affiliated organisations and to ascertain whether economic status or organisational structure had influenced the development of projects. The findings were to be compared to those of other studies. community participation, in the context of the study, occurs when people take part in programmes they desire and are able to sustain their interest after external support has been phased out. The research methodology involved two surveys: Interviews with the members and staff of BABS Western Cape in order to describe participation patterns and the impact of programmes on participants. A study of available data which profiled the BABS organisations, their goals and programmes. The data analysis was completed by the researcher. The findings indicate that community participation involved people becoming involved to a lesser or greater degree at different times in response to different issues. This suggested that there are several answers to the question raised in regard to the decrease in the activities of BABS. The findings also suggest that major problems facing deprived areas, such as crime and housing, are beyond the resources and scope of neighbourhood development agencies. Finally, the recommendations call for BABS, which no longer functions as a grassroots community development agency, to institute a process of termination with its former affiliates, to maximise the use of the Pegasus centre in Kewtown, and to continue in its new direction as a training organisation. other recommendations provide suggestions with regard to their community participation strategies to other organisations seeking to enter the field .
Evaluation of the community participation process of build a better society (BABS) Western Cape
(University of the Western Cape, 1997) Jacobs, Laurence Peter; September, William
The study was undertaken of Build A Better Society (BABS) Western Cape because a comparison of the membership and public profile of the organisation from the time of its inception to recent times showed a decrease in its activities. Feasible explanations in changes in the political system and funding priorities could be established to account for the reduction in community participation. However, there is a lack of information on community organisation projects in this country and, until recently, a dearth of literature on the subject of community participation as very few projects have been systematically evaluated and published which could have provided another explanation for the decrease. Registered as a welfare organisation, BABS is regarded as one of the pioneering community work organisations in Cape Town. It became a model for several organisations in the Western Cape who adopted its philosophy and formally constituted as affiliates. The aims, therefore, of the study were to examine whether the programmes of the organisation were successful in eliciting community participation, the extent of this involvement and whether this involvement was sustained over time; to describe the efforts of the staff and members in applying the techniques and procedures inherent in the community participation process; to describe the impact of this process on affiliated organisations and to ascertain whether economic status or organisational structure had influenced the development of projects. The findings were to be compared to those of other studies. community participation, in the context of the study, occurs when people take part in programmes they desire and are able to sustain their interest after external support has been phased out. The research methodology involved two surveys: Interviews with the members and staff of BABS Western Cape in order to describe participation patterns and the impact of programmes on participants. A study of available data which profiled the BABS organisations, their goals and programmes. The data analysis was completed by the researcher. The findings indicate that community participation involved people becoming involved to a lesser or greater degree at different times in response to different issues. This suggested that there are several answers to the question raised in regard to the decrease in the activities of BABS. The findings also suggest that major problems facing deprived areas, such as crime and housing, are beyond the resources and scope of neighbourhood development agencies. Finally, the recommendations call for BABS, which no longer functions as a grassroots community development agency, to institute a process of termination with its former affiliates, to maximise the use of the Pegasus centre in Kewtown, and to continue in its new direction as a training organisation. other recommendations provide suggestions with regard to their community participation strategies to other organisations seeking to enter the field .
An exploration of students' perceptions and experiences of an online social work module at the University of the Western Cape'
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Bozalek, Vivienne; Brey, Fairoza
This study examines students' experiences and perceptions of an online social work ethics module at the University of the Western Cape. Online learning as a teaching medium was introduced in 2005, in a newly devised social work module, and was internally evaluated by the module leader. This study concentrates on the perceptions and experiences of the student cohort from 2006 - 2008. The research methodology used was located in the qualitative research paradigm' This included drawing on data obtained from students' responses to online journals from 2006-2008, a semi structured questionnaire administered to the 2008 cohort, and a focus group discussion conducted with the 2008 cohort. Documentary analysis was used to examine the online journal entries. Subsequently a thematic analysis was conducted on responses received from the semi- structured questionnaire and the focus group discussions.. The major findings of the study were that online pedagogy was assisted by having access to computers. Online learning provided access to information and cost savings to students, enhanced student's computer and time management skills, improved students' abilities to take responsibility for learning, and learning was perceived to be enjoyable and interesting. The challenges, on the other hand, were ascribed to technological problems experienced such as limited bandwidth, which impacted on students not being able to submit assignments timeously. On the negative side, many students reported that they were challenged by using the technology and required more training, that they would have wanted more face-to-face learning and that they had concerns about physical health and safety related to exposure to their computers for lengthy periods of time. The findings showed that there is an overwhelming support for online learning despite the challenges experienced. This general perception alludes to the fact that online learning has numerous benefits and these benefits can be increased if consideration is given to the inherent challenges.
An exploration of students' perceptions and experiences of an online social work module at the University of the Western Cape'
(University of the Western Cape, 2010) Bozalek, Vivienne; Brey, Fairoza
This study examines students' experiences and perceptions of an online social work ethics module at the University of the Western Cape. Online learning as a teaching medium was introduced in 2005, in a newly devised social work module, and was internally evaluated by the module leader. This study concentrates on the perceptions and experiences of the student cohort from 2006 - 2008. The research methodology used was located in the qualitative research paradigm' This included drawing on data obtained from students' responses to online journals from 2006-2008, a semi structured questionnaire administered to the 2008 cohort, and a focus group discussion conducted with the 2008 cohort. Documentary analysis was used to examine the online journal entries. Subsequently a thematic analysis was conducted on responses received from the semi- structured questionnaire and the focus group discussions.. The major findings of the study were that online pedagogy was assisted by having access to computers. Online learning provided access to information and cost savings to students, enhanced student's computer and time management skills, improved students' abilities to take responsibility for learning, and learning was perceived to be enjoyable and interesting. The challenges, on the other hand, were ascribed to technological problems experienced such as limited bandwidth, which impacted on students not being able to submit assignments timeously. On the negative side, many students reported that they were challenged by using the technology and required more training, that they would have wanted more face-to-face learning and that they had concerns about physical health and safety related to exposure to their computers for lengthy periods of time. The findings showed that there is an overwhelming support for online learning despite the challenges experienced. This general perception alludes to the fact that online learning has numerous benefits and these benefits can be increased if consideration is given to the inherent challenges.
Lived experiences of coporate bullying
(University of the Western Cape, 2022) De Voux, Hilary; Minnaar-McDonald, Marie
Corporate bullying is a social phenomenon that impacts negatively on employee wellness, relationships in the workplace, and on family well-being. The aim of this qualitative study was to understand the lived experiences of the employees regarding corporate bullying and the influence it has on them. The objectives were: (a) to explore and describe the understanding and experience of the employees who were victims/survivors of bullying in the workplace; (b) to construct meaning by interpreting perceptions about the phenomenon through conversations about bullying in the workplace and illustrate the perceived gaps in implementation of policies by organisations.