Masters Degrees (Sociology and Social Anthropology)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Sociology and Social Anthropology) by Author "Booysen, Chantelle"

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    Small business, mental health and psychosocial disabilities: a critical analysis of the South African National Small Business Policy environment through a political economy lens
    (Stellenbosch University, 2023-12) Booysen, Chantelle; Prah, Efua; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Sociology and Social Anthropology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Empirical research on evidence of the social, socioeconomic, and sociopolitical realities of persons navigating mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities in the workplace of small and micro-sized businesses is rare. Thus, this study involves an in-depth critical analysis of issues relating to societal perceptions, employer/employee experiences, macro/micro influences, and national responses as key drivers in addressing mental health problems in the small business policy environment in South Africa. The Political Economy framework approach has been employed, concentrating on the unique realities of small and micro-sized businesses, their employers, and employees. The study draws on the Critical Disability Theory as it relates to the key drivers and expands on the concept of ‘transdisciplinarity’ within which this study is positioned, i.e., Master of Philosophy in Transdisciplinary Health and Development Studies in Africa. The study utilises a three-fold analysis, exposing key deficiencies in the identified policy environment. Firstly, the study presents the social realities of persons with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities relating to broader society and the employment cycle. Secondly, it frames the socioeconomic realities of mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities in the workplace, highlighting employer/employee experiences. Lastly, the study highlights the sociopolitical realities, which include an investigation into legal instruments that influence workplace conditions and practices.