Masters Degrees (Social Work)

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The application of the Child Care Act in respect of the assessment and sentencing of juvenile offenders
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-03) Gildenhuys, Marianne; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences . Dept. of Social Work .
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study is concerned with children and youths in conflict with the law, who are additionally at risk of becoming or being in need of care. The study eventuated from concern for neglected children and youths from poor, disadvantaged and violent communities in the Western Cape Province, who inevitably lapsed into crime. Child and youth care, including juvenile justice, in South Africa is presently in a process of transformation, managed by the inter-ministerial committee on young people at risk. As an outcome of the transformation of the juvenile justice system, assessment centres were established at juvenile courts. Probation officers were appointed in terms of the Probation Services Act (Act 116 of 1991) to assess arrested children and youths before their first court appearance in view of a suitable awaiting trial placement and possible diversion of the criminal case. The researcher investigated how arrested children and youths, being in need of care, are managed within the criminal justice system. The research study showed that in spite of the implementation of policies and legislation to protect children and youths from detention in prison, the number of children and youths in prisons awaiting trial have steadily increased. A continuous shortage of vacancies in awaiting trial places of safety exists. It has further been established that professionals such as magistrates, prosecutors and probation officers recognize the needs of arrested children and youths who are additionally at risk of being or becoming in need of care. Factors such as the existing lack of vacancies in awaiting trial places of safety however result in children and youths not being protected in terms of care in all instances. The research study also indicated that arrested children and youths who are current subjects of the Child Care Act (Act 74 of 1983) as amended are often not effectively managed within the criminal justice system. A lack of sufficient knowledge of the said Child Care Act by especially prosecutors appears to be a contributing factor. A comprehensive criminal justice system for children and youths in South Africa is being envisaged, as contained in the draft Bill (Bill B), which will enable individualized but holistic services in respect of children and youths in conflict with the law. The role and tasks of probation officers carrying out assessments have as such become a key element in the management of arrested children and youths, as contained in the draft Bill (Bill B). Probation officers therefore playa significant role in advising the court regarding the appropriate management of arrested children and youths who are at risk of becoming or being in need of care.
Die benutting van maatskaplikewerksupervisie in die onderrrig van 'n diverse studentepopulasie
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2003-03) Von Schlicht, Helena; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Internationally accepted opinion is that the education of social work students is currently under pressure to more effectively prepare the students concerned for service delivery in changing circumstances. Emphasis is placed on the role that social justice, relevance of theory, respect for human rights, cross-cultural competencies and diversity currently play in service delivery to the client system and therefore also within the educational situation. Social work educators must be equipped to provide students with effective education and to facilitate an effective learning process for a diverse student population. Various authors point out that during the learning process students must first be empowered to take control of their own life decisions before being able to successfully render services to a client system. Such empowerment in a diverse setting can be achieved through both the educators and students utilizing their diversity of cultures, backgrounds and experiences as resources to increase learning expenences. Education of social work students occurs amongst others through supervision, which a competent social work educator gives to the student. It is the purpose of this study to examine the nature of education by means of supervision in a diverse student population. Appropriate adult learning models that strive towards empowering students through supervision in a diverse setting, are discussed, as well as the nature of the multicultural competencies of the social work educator concerned. Finally practical and theoretical guidelines are provided according to which social work supervision can be used successfully in the education of a diverse student population.
Benutting van sandspel in die eksplorering van die leefwêreld van adolessente volgens die gestaltbenadering in maatskaplike werk
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009-03) Rottier, Martha Francina; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
Goal: The aim of this study is to use the Gestalt approach to explore, and to make use of sandplay to describe and observe the world of the adolescent client, in order to lead the social worker to gain insight and understanding to the world of the adolescent. This study was done because the researcher observed that sandplay achieved very positive effects with children, adolescents and adults. This study was motivated by the desire to provide recommendations to the social workers in practice about the value and use of sandplay in the exploration of the world of the adolescent The literature study focussed on a) the adolescent life-phase in order to determine the specific developmental aspects and characteristics of the adolescent, b) to define the possibilities of sandplay as an exploration medium, as well as c) assessing the Gestalt approach as orientation theory and as practice theory with sandplay. In this research, a qualitative methodology was used combined with a case-study research design. Sandplay was used as a medium for exploration with three adolescent participants. They were selected by means of a non-probability sampling. The researcher used detailed, in-depth, data gathering methods which included six measuring instruments. These instruments included: a standardised questionnaire to give an indication of personality-traits of the participants; two questionnaires to determine the behaviour, thought patterns and domestic circumstances of the participants; semi-structured interview-schedules to explore the sandtrays of the participants; photographs to accurately capture and record the sandtrays; as well as observations recording the behaviour and non-verbal communication of the participants. The researcher concludes that, according to the Gestalt-approach, exploration with sandplay is an effective method to explore the world of the adolescent. This method provides adequate information to the social worker to understand the world of the adolescent client. Sandplay, according to the Gestalt approach, contributes value to social work practice, because it enhances the effectiveness of exploration and intervention. Sandplay provides the social worker with comprehensive information about the adolescent, and enables the social worker to identify the core problem of the adolescent expeditiously. Sandplay involves the adolescent in a sensory, cognitive and emotional manner, which contributes to more information being exposed that leads to more effective interventions. This method is also novel, interesting and challenging to the social worker and the adolescent. The researcher recommends sandplay for the exploration of the world of the adolescent be preceded by establishing a therapeutic relationship with the adolescent. Once a relationship is established a number of sandtrays can be built, and thoroughly explored. The first sandtray should be non-directive. Directive sandtrays are subsequently recommended to explore specific themes and to handle trauma and/or issues which the adolescent may experience. It is also recommended that the social worker utilizes hypotheses, which can be postulated from the symbolic meanings of miniatures, as well as interpretations from other sandplay research in his/her exploration of sandtrays. The social worker, who uses sandplay to explore the world of the adolescent according to the Gestalt approach, should be knowledgeable about sandplay, the symbolic meaning of miniatures, sandplay research and the Gestalt approach as orientation theory and practice theory. This study was done with three Afrikaans-speaking adolescent foster children, and the findings may not apply to other populations. Additional research needs to be done with a wider sample of adolescents, that covers different cultures, language and domestic backgrounds.
Casework intervention for abused women in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-03) Twala, Thembi Maria Carol; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences . Dept. of Social Work .
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research investigates casework intervention for abused women in Moses Kotane Local Municipality. The purpose of this research is to present a theoretical and practical framework from a casework perspective for dealing with abused women. The motivation for the study was based on the need of social workers to have a framework when applying casework during intervention with abused women. The framework will offer guidance and will ensure that the service rendered to abused women is of a good quality. The objectives of this study is to investigate the nature and extent of the abuse of women in Moses Kotane Local Municipality, to explain the causes and consequences of abuse, and to describe casework intervention strategies to address abuse of women. The research covers the nature and prevalence of abuse of women as well as the causes of abuse. The consequences of abuse of women are also outlined in the research report. A practice perspective, a theory and a model which can be applied during intervention with abused women, is also included in the report. A practical framework is also included with the help of literature reviewed. The empirical research involved both qualitative and quantitative methods. This section presents findings in the form of tables and figures and gives an analysis of the findings. The findings were analyzed and compared with the findings from previous studies undertaken by various authors. The findings can be used as a guideline by social workers when applying casework during intervention with abused women. Recommendations are also included in the report.
The contribution of social work to the prevention of crime by the criminal justice system in the Western Cape
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001-04) Magobotiti, Chris Derby; Groenewald, C. J.; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study deals with crime prevention within the criminal justice system in response to the current crime situation in the Western Cape. It describes the structure and function of the criminal justice system and assesses crime prevention processes with specific reference to the role of social work within the criminal justice system. It further examines the criminal justice system as practised in the Western Cape, paying specific attention to the role of the police, criminal courts and prisons in the prevention of crime. In line with the nature of the study an exploratory approach was used. The data was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Interviews and observations were the main research techniques used for gathering primary data. Secondary data + was gathered by means of a study of the literature. Structured and unstructured interviews were conducted with social workers, magistrates, police officers, prosecutors, victims, offenders, community workers and other officials of the criminal justice system. These interviews were mainly conducted at Wynberg magistrates' court, Drakenstein Prison (formerly known as Victor Verster Prison) and organisations based in the metro areas and on the Cape Flats. The study was conducted over a period of three years with the interview schedule administered between May and August 2000. A sample of 21 respondents was selected on the basis of a purposive approach and procedure. The comprehensive interview schedule consisted of mainly open-ended and a few closed questions, generating information on the profiles of respondents, crime dynamics in the Western Cape, the sentencing process and prevention strategies, matters related to the criminal justice system and corrections, and the role of community justice in the prevention of crime. The generated qualitative data was analysed and interpreted. The findings suggested the necessity for social work to make a contribution to the prevention of crime in a sensitive and proactive way. The analysis has shown that criminal justice approaches can significantly enhance the process of crime prevention, but that the criminal justice system requires combined strategies and approaches for crime prevention to be effective. It is in this context that the contribution of social work can be much more effective. The recommendations of the study have demonstrated a need for social workers to promote approaches that are premised on a broader understanding of the role of the criminal justice system in the prevention of crime. It is important to state that the study's recommendations for the prevention of .crirne can also be implemented by other role-players, particularly within the criminal justice system.
Employment equity : guidelines for the recruitment and selection of people with disabilities in the open labour market
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001-03) Smit, Karen; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work .
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Until very recent people with disabilities in South Africa were an overlooked and under-utilised pool of labour. Disabled people have been denied the chance to participate in employment opportunities by becoming economically active and hence contributing towards the economy of the country. This is because employers were seldom or never exposed to the employment of disabled people in the open labour market. The result is that employers are uninformed about the benefits of recruiting disabled candidates. Since the establishment of a new democratic order in South Africa in 1994, new legislation that protects the rights of disabled people was implemented. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (No 108 of 1996), the Labour Relations Act (No 66 of 1995) and the Employment Equity Act (No 55 of 1998) for the first time proclaimed that it is unlawful to discriminate against people with disabilities. The Employment Equity Act (No 55 of 1998) encourages employers to employ persons from designated groups. These designated groups are black people, women and people with disabilities. To enable employers to successfully recruit disabled people in the open labour market, existing recruitment and selection procedures should be reviewed to remove any discriminatory elements. It is during the recruitment and selection process that the disabled applicant are either denied access to employment or not given a fair chance to compete for a position. Currently the Employment Equity Act (No 55 of 1998) only mentions the terms "people with disabilities" and "reasonable accommodation". This Act does not provide guidelines for employers on how to go about recruiting and employing disabled candidates. Therefore the aim of the study is to present practical guidelines regarding the employment of people with disabilities. These guidelines describe in a non-discriminatory manner the recruitment and selection process, such as reviewing job descriptions, the advertisement of positions, interpreting the disabled candidates' curriculum vitae and interviewing the disabled applicant. The idea of reasonable accommodation within the workplace highlights the use and benefits of assistive devices for disabled persons so that the essential functions of a job can be performed. Exploratory-descriptive research was done with the assistance of questionnaires as an instrument for data collection. To meet the aims of this study, an availability sample of 20 businesses (small, medium and large businesses) which also included government departments in the Cape Metropolitan area was selected. The opinions and attitudes of human resources staff and business owners concerning the recruitment of physically disabled people, persons with hearing impairments, persons with visual impairments and persons suffering from epilepsy, were determined. The research findings reflected and discussed in this study indicate that employers do not have recruitment and selection guidelines available to recruit persons with different disabilities successfully. Conclusions and recommendations are made regarding the knowledge and opinions of employers recruiting people with disabilities. The use of recruitment and selection guidelines will benefit both the employer and the disabled candidate. Such guidelines will enable employers to recruit disabled persons in a fair and consistent manner.
Equine-assisted therapy for primary school children with physical disabilities : a psychosocial view
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2006-12) Helfer, Avril; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
This study endeavours to understand the psychosocial functioning of primary school children involved in a therapeutic horse-riding program. A qualitative study was done using an exploratory research design. Much research has been documented regarding the physical benefits of equineassisted therapy. Little research has however been done regarding the psychosocial functioning of children involved in such projects, and in the field of social work, not much research has been conducted to the knowledge of the researcher. This study was thus motivated by the current lack of research in this area and by the desire to discover whether this form of therapy has a place within the social work field. The literature study firstly explored the various physical disabilities that are most commonly encountered in the therapeutic riding world, namely cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and epilepsy. The developmental milestones of the primary school child were explored with a view to how these physical disabilities may effect the reaching of these developmental milestones. The concept of rehabilitation psychology was then explored, comparing it with various social work methods, popular theories and perspectives and it was found that there were many overlaps in the two fields. Lastly, the literature study looked at equine-assisted therapy and research that has already been done on this topic. The empirical investigation consisted of case studies on five primary school children from Astra School for the Physically Disabled. A qualitative investigation was done, by means of a focus group held with various key team players in the therapy such as the physiotherapists and riding instructors. Individual interviews were then held with each of the five children. An interview guide was used for both the focus group and the individual interviews. The findings of the investigation were in line with what was found in the literature study, namely that these physically disabled children struggled in reaching their psychosocial developmental milestones. The riding however was shown to have made a significant contribution in the areas of social participation, confidence, selfimage, emotional control, discipline and cognitive and educational stimulation in each of the five children concerned. Rehabilitation philosophy and psychology were found to be in line with much of what social work aims to achieve. In light of the fact that equine-assisted therapy was shown to be a viable means of rehabilitation, and therefore a viable means of reaching social work goals with physically disabled clients, recommendations were made in terms of social work practice, social work theory, social work training, social work research and social work policy regarding the physically disabled client.
An exploratory study of the needs and capacities of mentally ill adults living in a supported housing facility
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2005-03) Jacobs, Liesl Mary; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The basic premise underlying this research is the ability to gain a deeper understanding of a person with a mental illness, and more specifically the residents living in a supported housing facility. It is significant for social workers to establish a basic profile of the individual in order to understand and realize the resident's specific I?-eeds.The aim of the study is to present a description of the personal needs, capacities and socio-emotional functioning of a mentally ill person living in a supported housing facility. The research report includes identifying the personal needs and capacities of people with a mental illness living in a supported housing facility. This comprises of aspects applicable to the daily living conditions and lifestyles of people with a mental illness residing in such a care facility, including needs and concerns, capacities, strengths and limitations and the role of the family in the individual's life. The report also investigates the social welfare services essential in the intervention and rehabilitation of people living in a supported housing facility, by utilizing various perspectives applicable to social workers. The empirical study consisted of using a quantitative method in order to explore the pragmatic aspect of the study, which would allow an investigation into the nature of the needs, capacities and socio-emotional functioning of people with a mental illness living in a supported housing facility. Information was gathered by means of a questionnaire and subsequently analysed in order to attain valid conclusions from the research. These fmdings were consequently noted, and conclusions and recommendations drawn. The fmdings of this research can be used as guidelines for social workers and other social welfare practitioners working with people with a mental illness.
Exploring correctional supervision
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2003-12) Apollis, Hazel Charlene; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Crime in South Africa is a common occurrence and crimes committed by young people are rapidly becoming a serious problem. During the 19th and zo" centuries, young offenders were institutionalised in reform schools for example. However, social workers and probation officers realized that the confinement in these schools caused frustration amongst the young offenders and also encouraged further deviant behaviour. In South Africa, the Department of Correctional Services implemented community corrections, on 1 June 1993, as an alternative sentence option to imprisonment. Community corrections have two distinctive forms, namely correctional supervision and parole supervision. Correctional supervision is a community-based sentence, which is prescribed by the courts and is served within the community under strict supervision and control of correctional officials and probation officers. The Department of Correctional Services mainly implemented correctional supervision in order to divert young offenders away from being exposed to the harsh and severe life of incarceration. The goal of the study was to explore correctional supervision as an alternative sentence option and present a description of this sentence for the juvenile delinquents. The objectives were to explore the juvenile offender's perception of correctional supervision, the impact of this sentence on the offender's family members and the availability and the role that the probation officers play during the juvenile's sentence to correctional supervision. The contents of the report focused on describing the phenomenon of juvenile delinquency and other related topics, such as theories and contributing factors, and correctional supervision as an alternative sentence option. Exploratory-descriptive research was done and questionnaires were utilized as instruments for data collection from the juvenile offenders, their family members and the probation officers. The juvenile offenders were part of the Department of Correctional Services' (Worcester) justice system and the probation officers are employed at the Department. Conclusions and recommendations are made regarding the respondents' perceptions, opinions and experiences of the sentence of correctional supervision. The proposed recommendations should be a guide for the Department of Correctional Services in order to change certain factors that contribute to the poor co-operation of juvenile offenders sentenced to correctional supervision.
Foster care of AIDS orphans : social workers' perspectives
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011-03) De Jager, Este; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The goal of this study is to shed some light on the needs of children orphaned by AIDS as well as on the training and support that their foster parents will need, in order to provide guidelines for equipping foster parents to care for AIDS orphans. The motivation for this study was the rapid spread of HIV/AIDS in the South Africa and the one million South African AIDS orphans left in its wake. Most of these children end up in substitute homes, and many of them in foster care. Researchers agree that AIDS orphans have special needs because of the circumstances surrounding their parents’ death. Foster parents will therefore need to be prepared to meet these needs. It is an internationally documented fact that foster parents have a need for training and support to meet the demands of foster care, and having an AIDS orphan as a foster child will increase, and focus this need. The study was also motivated by the current shortages and challenges in the foster care system in South Africa which makes it difficult for social workers to effectively train and support foster parents, and aims to contribute towards overcoming some of these problems so that foster parents can be properly prepared to see to the well-being of the AIDS orphans in their care. The research was done based on a literature study, which firstly made use of the Ecological Systems Perspective to explore the effects of parental death by AIDS on their children. Subsequently an overview of foster care within the South African context is given, with emphasis on foster care in general, foster care within the challenging South African context and foster care of AIDS orphans. The last part of the literature review discusses foster parent cell groups as a means of training and supporting the foster parents of AIDS orphans for the parenting process. The empirical investigation of the study investigated to what extent, and in what ways, social workers are training and supporting foster parents to care for AIDS orphans. This investigation confirmed some of the findings of the literature study, namely that AIDS orphans have needs that differ from those of other foster children and that social workers are too overburdened to be able to give the foster parents of these orphans the needed training and support. In light of the findings derived from the literature study and empirical research, conclusions and recommendations are made concerning the phenomena under investigation. The recommendations focus on guidelines that can be used by social workers to train and support the foster parents of AIDS orphans. The recommendations centre on the utilisation of resource-friendly methods to train and support foster parents; bringing structure into the foster care process and on social workers having to use research for guidance.
Geskeide vroue se ervarings en persepsies van hul aanpassing in die post-egskeidingsfase
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007-12) Le Roux, Memry S. (Memry Sharlene); Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this study is to gain understanding of the perceptions and experiences of divorced women in the postdivorce phase, with specific reference to rural divorcees. During intervention with divorced women the social worker ought to be informed about the needs of divorcees, as well as be skilled to deal with the trauma of divorce. It is therefore necessary to understand how women experience the post-divorce process. The Systems, Ecological, Strengths and Feminist Perspectives are used as a frame of reference to understand the adaptation of divorced women. First, a study of relevant literature is undertaken which presents a broad review of the process of divorce; divorce as a mourning process, as well as the influence of divorce on the women and children. Attention is also devoted to literature on the adaptation of women in the post-divorce phase. Second a qualitative, phenomenological research subject is chosen to explore the experiences and perceptions of divorced women’s adaptation during the post divorce-phase. Factors which obstruct adaptation, as well as factors which stimulate personal growth, came to light during the empirical research. Four themes unfolded from the research. The first theme relates to tension: tension regarding finances; tension regarding health; tension arising from the overloading of roles and tension resulting from the relationship with the ex-husband, as well as how divorce is experienced int the rural areas. The second theme deals with spirituality: divorce as a spiritual crisis; deepenig spirituality; spirituality in the shaping of identity and facilitating to a large extent the mourning process. In the third theme various sources of support are discussed, while the fourth theme focuses on the positive side of divorce, namely personal growth. The before mentioned themes contain the challenges divorced women experience during the post-divorce phase. Recommendations focus on post-divorce intervention which are aimded to relief stress, strengthen spirituality, to obtain knowledge of supportsystems in the community, and also to stimulate the process of personal growth.
Groepwerk binne die gevangenis met oortreders van vader-dogter bloedskande
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1993) Du Toit, Masonette Maria; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Department of Social Work.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Oortreders van vader-dogter bloedskande is 'n vinnig groeiende deel van die gevangenisbevolking. Maatskaplike werkers in die gevangenisopset is reeds vir 'n geruime tyd bewus van leemtes wat bestaan ten hulpverlening aan hierdie oortreders. In hierdie ondersoek is gefokus op die kennis, houding en vaardighede waaroor die maatskaplike werkers moet beskik wat groepwerk, die aangewese metodie, met hierdie oortreders wil doen nie slegs is die kennis, vaardighede en houding wat noodsaaklik is teoreties bepaal nie, maar die navorser het ook die kennis, vaardighede en houding van maatskaplike werkers werksaam in die gevangenisopset empiries ondersoek met behulp van vraelyste wat hulle voltooi het. Gebrekkige vaardighede rakende groepwerk met hierdie oortreders, en ook gebrekkige kennis van die kenmerke van die oortreders was deel van die aansienlike aantal leerbehoeftes wat deur die respondente uitgewys is. Gevolgtrekkings is gemaak en aanbevelings is gedoen rakende groepwerk - volgens kognitiewe herstrukturering en gedragsmodifikasie - met die oortreders van vader-dogter bloedskande in die gevangenisopset. Klem is geplaas op die stel van riglyne rakende die kenmerke van die oortreders, oorsaaklike faktore en groepswerk met hierdie oortreders, wat die maatskaplike werkers van hulp kan wees met hulpverlening aan insestuese oortreders in die gevangenisopset.
Guidelines for the development of youth mentor programmes
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-03) Arnolds, Lionel; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Close, personal relationships with adults are seen to contribute positively to the development of young people. Whilst mentoring has been established in other parts of the world, it is a relatively new concept in South Africa. The purpose of this study is to establish guidelines for the development of youth mentoring programmes. The literature study deals with the human development of youth during adolescence. Those factors, both within the family as well as in the environment, that affect the development of young people, are discussed. The phases of the mentoring process is also described. The Hearts of Men mentoring programme is used as an example of a youth mentoring programme that is based in the community. An exploratory and descriptive study was undertaken in order to describe the development of youth during adolescence. An empirical study was undertaken based on the literature review. A sample comprised of 18 young people participating in the Hearts of Men mentoring programme in the Strand was involved in the study. With the help of the empirical study the perception of the young people with regard to the mentor and mentee roles was examined. The findings of the study reveal that the young people in the Hearts of Men programme have a positive experience of the mentoring process and have an understanding of the mentor and mentee roles. In order to establish youth mentoring programmes, organisations must possess the knowledge of and skills in the mentoring process and must have an understanding of the human development of young people as well as of theories relating to their development.
Guidelines for the handling of sexual harassment in the South African Police Service
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000-03) Retief, Rita Theresa; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences . Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Sexual harassment is an old problem for the women who are its victims but is relatively new as a social issue. Studies carried out in South Africa and internationally indicate that sexual harassment is a problem in virtually every organisation and that a substantial proportion of working women are the recipients of unwanted sexual attention in the workplace. A number of misconceptions, myths as well as stereotyping regarding sexual harassment in the workplace have added to the frustration female employees experience in trying to have their sexual harassment complaints recognised. Like many organisations, the South African Police Service (SAPS) knows the problem exists, but is unaware of its full extent or the destructive effects it has on employees and the workplace. As sexual harassment usually occurs in private, the women in the SAPS who are being harassed usually do not know how to react or how to handle the harassing situation and conseq uently suffer in silence. Most female employees despair of having the traditionally male dominated management component in the SAPS understand how much sexual harassment humiliates and frustrates them. They also despair of having the support of managers in addressing the problem of sexual harassment in the workplace. Even though the SAPS has a sexual harassment policy, the problem of sexual harassment continues to occur in the workplace. The only protection for the organisation and its employees, is prevention, or lacking that, immediate and appropriate action, following notification of a sexual harassment complaint. Prevention is only likely when the sexual harassment policy has been well communicated to all parties and enforced consistently and fairly. Inher capacity as a social worker in the SAPS, the researcher became aware that even though managers and employees are aware that this type of misconduct occurs, they avoid addressing this sensitive issue because of a lack of proper guidelines. Therefore, the aim of the study was to present guidelines for the composition of a training programme for the implementation of the existing policy document regarding the handling of sexual harassment in the SAPS. The purpose was to ensure that intervention and prevention of sexual harassment in the SAPS will be handled more effectively. Existing literature on the subject of sexual harassment was studied and presented in a theoretical framework. The history, legislation and dimensions of sexual harassment in the workplace i.e. internationally as well as in South Africa and the SAPS, were discussed. The development and consequences of sexual harassment for the organisation and all employees concerned were emphasized. Preventative measures and implementation guidelines for addressing sexual harassment in the SAPS, were explored. The prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace and the subsequent experience(s) of and effects on female employees regarding such harassment (in the SAPS) is brought into focus. Exploratory - descriptive research was done with the aid of a questionnaire as an instrument for data-collection, at police stations in one area of the West Metropole in the SAPS (Western Cape) where social workers are rendering services. The opinions and attitudes of female employees with regard to their experience(s) or knowledge of the occurrence and the handling of sexual harassment in the SAPS, were determined. Information obtained from the questionnaire is presented in six categories, namely : demographic characteristics of respondents, behaviour of male employees toward female employees, the person(s) responsible for the sexual harassment incident, reactions to the sexual harassment incident, effects of sexual harassment experience(s) on women as well as on the workplace and the addressing of sexual harassment in the workplace. Conclusions and recommendations are made regarding the opinions, knowledge and sexual harassment experiences of female employees in the SAPS as well as how sexual harassment should be handled by various parties such as managers and social workers employed by the SAPS. The implementation of a sexual harassment training programme can be of great value to the South African Police Service and all its employees, provided the staff at management level, professional personnel (social workers, psychologists and personnel practitioners) and all other levels of employees commit themselves to working together on addressing and preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. Regular evaluations should be done by the social worker after the sexual harassment training programme has been implemented, in order to determine the effectiveness of the prevention training programme for addressing sexual harassment in the SAPS. Social workers in the SAPS should endeavour to clarify the extent of the problem of sexual harassment and should bring the seriousness of the problem to the attention of managers and all other employees. Social workers therefore have a crucial role in assisting with the implementation of the organisation's sexual harassment policy and in doing further research regarding sexual harassment in the workplace.
Die hoof maatskaplike werker in die Departement Maatskaplike Dienste se kennis van en vaardighede in maatskaplike konsultasie
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002-03) Brink, Keith Neil; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: An exploratory study relating to the knowledge of and skills in social work consultation of chief social workers in the Department of Social Services was undertaken. The absence of a written policy pertaining to consultation in social work is one reason for consultation not being optimally practiced and utilised. This negatively influences the standard of service delivery to the client system. The study aims to serve as a guideline for the Department of Social Services with regards to the possible formulation of a policy document on consultation within social work practice. An empirical study supported by the literature study was performed on a test sample comprising of six service officers of the Department Social Services, Cape Peninsula. The empirical study examined and described the respondents opinions, skills, knowledge and shortcomings regarding social work consultation. The utilization and application of consultation in social work by chief social workers in the Department of Social Services was determined through the usage of interview questionnaires. The empirical study enabled the researcher to draw certain conclusions. The respondents were confused and uncertain about the term consultation in social work. A clear and definite need for a written policy that could serve as a guideline in the utilization of consultation was identified. Selection criteria for social workers to progress from supervision to consultation should form part of a consultation policy. Most of the respondents identified a need for training in social work consultation and half of the respondents experienced problems in the use of consultation. A number of recommendations stem from the findings and conclusion. The chief social workers theoretical knowledge regarding consultation needs to be updated. This knowledge should be implemented practically. The Department of Social Services needs to create clear guidelines for consultation in social work and these should be reflected in a policy document that promotes and compels the use of consultation.
Identification and assessment of intentional physical injuries to hospitalised preschool children
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000-12) Hartweg, Janine; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences . Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research investigates the indicators, different role players and the assessment process of intentional physical injuries to children who are hospitalized. The basic premise for this research is the importance of professionals working with children in acquiring skills and knowledge on handling physically abused children. Physical abuse affects and requires the involvement of the entire family of the physically abused child. It is therefore necessary to consider the physically abused child as a part of the larger family system, and not assessed or treated in isolation. The purpose of this research is to broaden the theoretical knowledge of professionals working with children, and specifically social workers, in identifying and assessing physically abused children. This research report includes an investigation of risk factors, consequences and the adjustment process of physically abused children. Knowledge of these indicators of physical abuse will increase the awareness and the ability of the social worker or other professional to identify the injury as intentional. The assessment process by the multi-professional team in the hospital is also examined, focusing on the central role of the social worker in managing cases of physically abused children. The phases of the assessment process, the role of each team member, the various techniques applied as well as factors influencing assessment are described. The empirical research involved the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods in order to explore the theoretical part of the research. This section can be divided into three phases. The first phase included setting up a profile, over a period of four months, of physically abused children under the age of five, who were admitted to the hospital and their families (N = 24). Of this sample, the characteristics and circumstances of four parents/perpetrators (n = 4) were investigated in the form of interviews, which formed part of the second phase of the empirical research. The third phase included conducting a survey with the social workers (n = 5) that assessed physically abused children in the hospital. This was done III the form of questionnaires, which included closed and open-ended questions. The findings and responses of the respondents were analyzed and compared with the findings from previous studies undertaken by various authors. The findings of this research can be used as guidelines for professionals in general who work with children, and more specifically social workers in a hospital that assess children presenting with intentional physical injuries.
Implementering van ‘n personeelprestasiebestuurstelsel deur maatskaplikewerkbestuurders in diens van Departement Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009-03) Nolan, Tassia; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
The primary objective of this study is to establish a holistic view of performance managementsystem in the Provincial Government and to assess the extent of implementation and the application of performance management, together with the challenges facing the social work managers in this regard. Furthermore it sought to identify the gaps and key priorities required for effective and efficient performance management processes. The study was preceded by a comprehensive literature study whereby the necessisty and purpose of performance mananagement were identified. Furthermore the valuable aspects and the characteristics of performance management in social work have been described. The persons involved in the performance management system were investigated tot determine the nature and scope of the performance managegement system that are implemented. The importance of the participation of both the supervisor (manager) and the social worker was determined. The report highlights the importance of a process approach and uses it as a lens for understanding performance management system. It indicate the change in focus from performance evalution to performanance management, which focuses less on productivity or the input or physical activities applied in achieving the results or outputs as such, but rather on the extent to which predetermined objectives/goals are effectively and efficiently met through the measurement of outputs/results against agreed-upon performance standards. An empirical study wat undertaken where both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were applied to achieve the objective of the research. The quantitative methods comprised out of a questionnaires purely for and data collection and the qualitative approach entailed the open-ended questions in the questionnaire. It sought to identify the gaps and key priorities required for the implentation of an effective and efficient performance management processes. The report highlights the importance of a developmental approach in applying the performance management system.
The laryngectomy patient’s need for support groups in a hospital setting : a social work perspective
(2009-03) Steyn, Beatrix Hendrina; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
A laryngectomy is mostly indicated as treatment for an advanced stage of cancer of the larynx, during which the patient’s voice box is removed. This operation can hold major psycho-social implications for the patient and family. To cope with the challenges in daily life, patients need social support. A lack of available literature and research regarding the role of the social worker in facilitating support groups for these patients and families was identified and motivated this research study. The goal of the study was to gain a better understanding of the laryngectomy patient’s need for support groups in a hospital setting when attending the follow-up clinic at the hospital. A combination of both the exploratory and descriptive research designs together with a combination of mainly a qualitative and to a certain extent the quantitative research approaches, was used. From this, knowledge, insight and an understanding of the need for support groups in a hospital setting from a social work perspective were obtained. Permission to conduct the proposed study was granted by the Committee for Human Research at the University of Stellenbosch. The literature study first focused on medical aspects of a laryngectomy and social work intervention services within a hospital setting as part of the multi-disciplinary approach. Second, psycho-social effects of a laryngectomy from an ecological perspective were discussed, referring to the physical, social and psychological effects of surgery upon the patient and family. Third, support and aftercare were discussed with specific reference to the role of the social worker in offering social support to the patient and family. For the empirical study, twenty laryngectomy patients from the service area of Tygerberg Hospital were involved from January 2008 to May 2008. Criteria for inclusion in the study referred to patients who had their operation not less than three months previously, attended the support group during follow-up visits at the hospital and who had successfully acquired tragea-oesophageal speech. Based on the literature review, a semi-structured questionnaire and face-to-face interview were used as research instruments to overcome the limitation of illiteracy. The results of the investigation mainly confirmed the findings of the literature study namely that laryngectomy patients can benefit from support groups in order to address their need for social support in dealing with daily life challenges. Patients indicated that they mainly needed information regarding post-operative adaptation as this was where problems were mostly experienced. The majority of patients suggested the use of support groups in this regard. Focus was placed on an exploration and description of patients’ needs for such support groups. Benefits of support groups were found to be totally compatible with the role of the social worker. The results therefore gave an indication of social work intervention services and referred to: provision of information, problem-solving, offer of social and emotional support, and promotion of rehabilitation opportunities, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life. Recommendations were aimed at social work intervention services relating to support and aftercare offered to laryngectomy patients and relatives. Future research to develop social work programmes for health care professionals in order to effectively support these patients and their families was proposed. From practical experience of support groups a study regarding the role of pre- and primary schoolchildren or grandchildren in the rehabilitation of laryngectomy patients was also suggested.
Maatskaplike werk intervensie met manlike jeugoortreders in die Departement van Korrektiewe Dienste
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2003-03) Pheiffer, Roseline Anna; Green, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Juvenile delinquency is currently reaching alarming proportions and the number of juveniles within the prison population is on the increase. The crimes committed by male juvenile offenders, are often of an aggressive nature and include crimes such as murder and rape. The high rate of crime and the nature of the offences make it essential for social work services to be rendered to the juvenile offender. The purpose of the study was to establish guidelines for the social worker with the male juvenile offender in the Department of Correctional Services. The literature study dealt with the development of the juvenile offender as adolescent and a profile of the offender was compiled. Those factors both within the family and in the environment that contribute to criminal behaviour in the male juvenile offender were discussed. Furthermore the social work intervention process based on behaviour therapy was described. An exploratory descriptive study was undertaken in order to determine the knowledge that social workers have with regard to social work intervention to the male juvenile offender. An empirical study was done based on the literature study. A sample comprised of ten social workers that work with juvenile offenders at the youth centres of the Department of Correctional Services were involved in the study. With the help of the empirical study the knowledge and skills of social workers regarding the nature of social work intervention to the juvenile was examined. The findings of the study reveal that social workers require more knowledge on the development of the juvenile offender and on those factors that contribute to criminal behaviour, as well as skills with regard to the social work intervention process with the male juvenile offender. In order to render effective social work intervention to male juvenile offenders, social workers must possess adequate knowledge about the juvenile offender and about the skills needed to apply the social work intervention process.
Maatskaplike werkers se assessering van seksueel gemolesteerde kinders in hul middelkinderjare
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2001-12) Van Zyl, Elizabeth Jacoba; Green, S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The purpose of the research for this assignment was to establish and provide guidelines as well as techniques according to which social workers, who are involved in family welfare organisations, will be able not only to assess molested children in their middle childhood, but also to plan and introduce the required intervention. To achieve the aforementioned, use was made of a literature survey in terms of which all aspects of sexual molestation that need to be considered whilst handling molested children as well as the phases and processes of assessing such molestations, are discussed. Techniques are also proposed according to which such assessments could be performed. Following this study the empirical research was utilised by means of exploratory and descriptive studies. To obtain the required information, data was collected by means of a postal (mail) questionnaire containing quantitative as well as qualitative questions. This research has shown that social workers do not regard themselves as adequately equipped in handling cases involving sexually molested children. Their (social workers) knowledge and skills in terms of the areas relating to service delivery came across as being poor. The respondents agreed that the shortage of resources restricted the referral of these cases. This results in social workers having to treat such cases themselves. It is apparent that knowledge regarding the handling of molested children is mostly gained by practical experience. Assessments are often carried out without the required theoretical background. This contributes to findings and actions taken not always being scientifically substantiated, resulting in a lack of professional conduct. The study also shows that the training and conduct of social workers, especially as it relates to the assessing of sexually molested children which could lead to statutory action in terms of the Children's Status Act 82 of 1987 (as amended) as well as the Sexual Offences Act 23 of 1957, are lacking. No clear guidelines and policy are stipulated in this instance by the family welfare organisations. Based on the findings of this research the deduction is made that social workers, despite the statutory obligation they have towards a sexually molested child, do not possess the necessary skills or are not equipped with the competence required to execute the task on hand. In this regard social workers have a significant need to learn and be given the required competence, as organisations and tertiary institutions currently do not equip them adequately or effectively. Recommendations relative to the assessment of sexually molested children have been made to tertiary institutions, organisations and social workers. Opportunities for further research are also indicated.

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