Masters Degrees (Social Work)

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Adolescent pregnancy resolution with special reference to pre-abortion counselling
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000-03) Evangelisti, Linda; Kruger, S. P.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: An exploratory study of the extent and nature of adolescent pregnancy resolution and pre-abortion counselling was undertaken. Little research has been done on pre-abortion counselling in South Africa since the Choice of Termination of Pregnancy Act (92 of 1996) was passed in February 1997. This study emphasised pre-abortion counselling since this is a new field for most counsellors. A literature study was conducted on adolescent pregnancy, focussing on the factors and possible consequences of the choice to carry the pregnancy to term or to terminate it. Adolescents, more than adults, need assistance to make this decision. Crisis intervention was explored as a possible counselling model for pregnancy resolution and pre-abortion counselling. The preliminary investigation included interviews with social workers and nursing professionals in Mossel Bay. Nursing professionals were included in the study since they administer the pregnancy tests and are therefore the first professionals with whom the pregnant adolescent comes into contact. This investigation revealed that nurses, not social workers, do most of the preabortion counselling in Mossel Bay. The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act emphasises the importance of supplying pre and post-abortion counselling at the facility providing the termination of pregnancy. The Act also envisages this as primarily a medical concern, with the implication that nursing professionals should do the counselling. The role of professional counsellors such as social workers is not mentioned in the Act. The Act lays down that training will be provided to equip nursing professionals with necessary skills to render this service. The empirical study examined the training and skills of nursing professionals and social workers to determine whether they were adequately qualified to render these services. The respondents' attitude towards pregnant adolescents who choose abortion was also investigated, since this would influence their counselling skills. The investigation revealed that many of the nurses did not seem confident in their counselling although they felt that they were adequately qualified to counsel pregnant adolescents. The nurses explained that they did not feel that they had enough knowledge of the different options, especially foster care and adoption and therefore referred patients to a social worker or Options Pregnancy Centre (a volunteer based counselling centre). The social workers felt confident in counselling adolescents who decided to carry pregnancy to term. The counselling model used was crisis intervention, which is most appropriate for pre-abortion counselling as well. However they felt that they did not have enough information of abortion procedures and emotional consequences of abortion to counsel a pregnant adolescent requesting an abortion effectively. The study showed that respondents felt empathy and understanding for the adolescents' situation and the seriousness of the decision needing to be made. The study also found that social workers and nurses were willing to attend further training in order to improve their knowledge and their counselling skills. The training should therefore not focus on attitudes but simply on improving counselling skills. Training should focus on the nature of a crisis and the steps of crisis intervention.
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.
ART : the views of counsellors about skills needed in counselling HIV/AIDS patients
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008-12) Frans, Nocawe R.; Green, Sulina; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
South Africa is experiencing a serious HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) epidemic, with millions of its people living with the disease and dying from related diseases. As there is no cure as yet, counselling as a form of intervention is one of the most powerful ways to address the psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS. The motivation for this study was the lack of research concerning skills needed by counsellors in counselling HIV/AIDS patients who are on antiretroviral treatment (ART) or are about to commence antiretroviral treatment. To add to the knowledge that is lacking, the study was approached by means of both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The purpose of the research was explorative and descriptive. The discussion on the literature that was studied provides an overview of the implications of HIV/AIDS for the individual and the family, and of the psychosocial implications, in addition to describing antiretroviral treatment and the nature of HIV and adherence counselling processes and skills. A sample of 16 adherence counsellors who were between the ages of 27 and 57 years was interviewed. These adherence counsellors were employed by Sothemba Aids Action, placed at the different ART sites, trained at the Aids, Training, Information and Counselling Centre (ATTIC) and have gained one or more years’ experience in HIV/AIDS counselling. A semi-structured questionnaire was used as research instrument. It contained both open- and closed-ended questions. All the interviews took place at the clinics where the counsellors were employed or worked. The results of the study showed that an equal number of respondents from two different ethnic groups were interviewed; all the participants had received high school education; and a few obtained tertiary level qualifications. They all received training in basic counselling skills and adherence counselling skills. A few indicated additional training in Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT), as well as Prevention of Mother-to-child Transmission Counselling (PMTC). A minority of counsellors indicated making use of a translator and that their experience was that the message was always misinterpreted. All the adherence counsellors indicated a need for further training involving social problems and counselling of children at different ages and stages of development. It was also found that the adherence counsellors lack skills in counselling intervention processes and in intervention. All the adherence counsellors raised concerns regarding their working conditions and salaries. In light of the above it is recommended that patients be counselled in their preferred language, that all counsellors receive the same training in counselling and in the additional areas where they experience a shortcoming. Data on HIV/AIDS and adherence counselling, including the views of counsellors and patients are limited. It is recommended that more research be done on HIV/AIDS and adherence counselling, including the different disciplines that are involved and the views of patients about services rendered to them by those in the different disciplines, and counsellors.
The availability and accessibility of aftercare services for recovering adult addicts in the Western Cape
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2021-03) Jacobs, Danyschka; Slabbert, Ilze; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Globally, substance abuse is on the rise. In South Africa, however, substance abuse has reached epidemic proportions. Social workers in South Africa have been tasked to address and combat substance abuse along a continuum of care, by providing prevention, intervention, and aftercare services. In this context, this study aims to explore the availability and accessibility of aftercare services to recovering adult addicts in the Western Cape, South Africa. The goal of the research study was to explore the availability of and accessibility to aftercare services for recovering adult addicts within South Africa with a distinct focus on the Western Cape. The purpose of the research was to investigate whether or not there were sufficient availability of services and accessibility to aftercare treatment for recovering adult addicts in order to provide them with protective factors needed to maintain sobriety. The research study utilised and referred to the biopsychosocial model as its theoretical underpinning in analysing the needs of recovering addicts across biological, psychological, social, and cultural domains. This was also applied to see if the accessibility and availability of aftercare services met these biopsychosocial needs. The service users that was investigated were recovering adult addicts. A qualitative approach alongside purposive sampling was utilised to investigate and explore the experience of these service users in terms of their perception regarding the availability and accessibility of aftercare services once they have left treatment. The information was collected with the use of semi-structured interviews guided by an interview schedule. The interviews were conducted along ethical-based practices by ensuring that informed consent was obtained from all 16 participants prior to the interviews being conducted. Confidentiality was respected and maintained throughout the study and debriefing services were available at all times. These participants were selected via a criteria of inclusion, namely that they were at that stage all entering the aftercare phase of treatment and had to have direct knowledge and experience about the accessibility and availability of these services in their communities. The interviews were conducted via Zoom video calls, given that face-to-face interviews were not possible due to Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdown regulations. Once the data reached saturation, the interviews were transcribed and underwent thematic analysis. The data was categorised into themes, sub-themes, and categories. The four themes identified were the biological challenges, psychological challenges, social challenges and cultural challenges in relation to the accessibility and availability of aftercare services. The data of the study underwent a verification process ensuring the validity of the study through safeguarding the credibility, transferability, dependability, and conformability of the data obtained. The researcher furthermore explored the relevant literature, together with the policy and legislative frameworks pertaining to the accessibility to and availability of aftercare services in South Africa. These findings were then analysed in light of the empirical investigation to gain knowledge on the lived social experiences of recovering addicts in attempting to access available aftercare services in their communities in the Western Cape. After examining the literature and empirical findings, the researcher was able to provide applicable conclusions and recommendations. It is evident from this research study that recovering adult addicts experience numerous structural, systemic and attitudinal barriers regarding the accessibility and availability of aftercare services, especially amongst the disadvantaged communities of the Western Cape. It is recommended that a concerted effort be made by non-profit organisations as well as government departments to render and establish the availability and accessibility of aftercare services to all communities and recovering addicts in the Western Cape. It is also recommended that further research be conducted on the accessibility to and availability of aftercare services across South Africa. Finally, it is recommended that further research on the actual implementation of policies and legislative frameworks in light of aftercare treatment in South Africa, be explored.
Bedryfs-maatskaplike werk by plaaslike owerhede in die Kaapse Skiereiland
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001-03) Powrie, Anon Hugh Ferdinand; Weekes, M. S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to investigate the present functioning of occupational social work at local governments in the Cape Peninsula. In order to realise this aim, an exploratory study was undertaken. In this study the historical development of occupational social work, internationally as well as in the South African context, was investigated. From the investigation it became apparent that there is a difference in the pattern between the historical development of occupational social work internationally and in the South African context. In South Africa industrialization occurred almost a century later than in the European countries and the development of occupational social work was further hampered by the political system of separate development. The organizational context of occupational social work practice as well as the roles, functions, knowledge and skills of the occupational social worker were discussed. It is essential that the occupational social worker should not only have insight into the structural and functional aspects of organizations, but should also have the know how to apply this knowledge base to promote social work services in the workplace. Although the roles, functions, knowledge and skills of the occupational social worker are relatively similar to those of social workers in other fields of practice, it is also evident that this field requires more specialized skills and knowledge. Attention was given to social work supervision and management in the occupational context and it became apparent that in the occupational context, social work supervision and management are influenced by a variety of organizational factors. Supervision is extremely important to local governments because it provides the opportunity for these organizations to guide the service delivery of the social workers in a scientific and responsible manner. Lastly the structure and functioning of local governments were discussed with specific reference to occupational social work. The emergence of occupational social work at local governments in the Cape Peninsula as well as the Employee Assistance Program policy and the substance dependency treatment policy of local governments were also discussed. An empirical investigation was undertaken after the literature study, in which eight occupational social workers as well as their six managers at local governments in the Cape Peninsula participated. The questionnaire was used as the technique for data collection. On the basis of the conclusion and findings of this study, certain recommendations on the practical implementation of occupational social work policy and the process of supervision for local governments in the Cape Peninsula are made at the end of the report.
Beginner maatskaplike werkers se ervaring van volwasseneonderrig in supervisie
(2019-12) Brandt, Shanell; Engelbrecht, Lambert Karel; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The declining quality in South African supervision practice and social service delivery is attributed to the shortage of competent and trained supervisors as well as the lack of supervision. The failure of social work supervision is often attributed to inadequate education during supervision. The education function in supervision of especially novice social workers is essential for effective and quality service delivery. Despite this, the education function is neglected during supervision while the administrative function takes precedence. The social work practice mainly utilizes a traditional education process that is based on pedagogical principles. This process is by no means relevant to adults and thus (beginner) social workers' learning needs. Adult education, also known as andragogy, is fundamental to the supervision of social workers to ensure that quality services are provided to service consumers. Existing literature shows that social workers and supervisors are unfamiliar with this important and indispensable aspect of supervision. Against this background the research study aimed to gain a better understanding of novice social workers' experience of adult education during supervision. A qualitative research approach was used to explore novice social workers' experience of adult education during supervision. The study utilized both an exploratory and descriptive research design to obtain detailed information and insight into the participants' experience. For the purpose of this study, snowball sampling method was used to recruit participants. A semi-structured interview schedule was followed during interviews with 20 participants. This research report consists of five chapters. Chapter one provides an introduction to the research study, followed by chapters two and three that represent the literature review of the study. Chapter two describes the supervision process and social work context of novice social workers, while chapter three provides a description of adult education within the context of supervision. Chapter four of this research study presents the empirical study, and Chapter five the conclusions and recommendations. Key findings and conclusions from the study highlight the absence of education and the lack of application of adult education principles during supervision. It seems that pedagogy, rather than andragogy, is supervisors' approach to education. The supervision practice in social welfare organizations neglects the education function that especially disadvantages novice social workers' growth and development in the profession as well as the quality of service they deliver to service consumers. Influences of neoliberalism and a managerial approach in social work practice mean that social work supervision in welfare organizations is not regular and structured. Informal supervision (on the run) has become increasingly common in social welfare organizations and contributes to the decline in quality service delivery. Supervisors in the social supervision practice do not follow a supervision process during which novice social workers are assessed and consequently a personal development plan is not compiled to determine the growth and development of the worker. Supervision in the social work practice is experienced negatively and not performed as prescribed by standards of the South African Supervision Framework.
Die behoefte aan ondersteuning van vroue in landelike gebiede wat by intiemepaargeweld betrokke is : 'n ekologiese perspektief
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-03) Van Breda, Edna Elizabeth; Green, Sulina; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Intimate partner violence is world wide and in South Africa an increasing social problem that leads to life-threatening history of injuries and psychosocial problems. Intimate partner violence is a global phenomenon prevalent in all socio-economic, race, religion, cultural and geographical boundaries. Although women with a lack or low income is more at risk of intimate partner violence and this reinforces their dependency of the intimate partner violence relationship. The largest percentage of South Africa’s poor population lives in rural areas that make them more vulnerable for social problems because of their lack of adequate resources. Women in rural areas involved with intimate partner violence are physically isolated from a supportive social network and must travel far distances to gain access to formal support resources. The goal of the study is to gain an understanding of the support needs of women in rural areas that are involved in intimate partner violence from an ecological perspective. To achieve this goal, the objectives are: to explain the nature, extent and origin of intimate partner violence as a social problem; to discuss the relevance of the ecological perspective as a theoretical framework regarding the analyses of intimate partner violence; to describe the support needs of women in rural areas that is involved in intimate partner violence; to investigate the experience of women in rural areas that is involved in intimate partner violence regarding the availability of support; and to offer recommendations regarding the promotion of the support needs for women in rural areas that is expose to intimate partner violence. Combinations of a quantitative and qualitative research approach were used in the study. The study further assumed an exploratory and descriptive research design due to the lack of information on support that is available to women in rural areas that are involved in intimate partner violence. A purposive sampling method was used to select the participants. Data was gathered by means of a semi-structured questionnaire, which was administered during 20 individual interviews. This allowed for a holistic view of the participants beliefs about, or perceptions of the topic. The design of the questionnaire was based on the information obtained from the literature review. The findings of the empirical investigation mainly confirmed the findings of the literature study that those women in rural areas that are involved in intimate partner violence support needs, from multiple levels of the ecological perspective. This support entails both informal and formal support resources which vary from concrete, informational to emotional support in order to cope with stressful life situations. The most important recommendations resulting from the study indicate that social workers must use an ecological approach during service rendered to women in rural areas that are involved in intimate partner violence. This approach can be used to identify and strengthen support resources on a micro, meso, exo and macro system level. The study further indicate that social workers must collaborate with different government sectors such as health care, police and law enforcement in order to create a multi professional team that focus on the social functioning of families and the community as a entity. Social workers that render intervention services to women in rural areas that are exposed to intimate partner violence should focus on all levels of social work intervention. The recommendation emphasises the importance of women and the communities’ awareness regarding intimate partner violence to promote women independency and to promote and facilitate support groups.
'n Behuisingsopname van nie-blanke plaasarbeiders werksaam by 102 uitvoerdruiwe boere in die distrik Paarl
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1953-12) Kirsten, Annalene J.; Theron, Erika; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
No Abstract Available
Die bemagtiging van vrywilligers by ‘n geloofsgebaseerde organisasie
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2007-03) Van der Lingen, Jolanda; Green, Sulina; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
The welfare of communities depends to a large extent on the successful mobilisation of the voluntary contributions (manpower, time, money) by religious based organisations. Poverty and all the other social problems like unemployment and HIV/AIDS, that are associated with it, can only be addressed effectively if volunteers are empowered by social workers to handle the problems in a sustaining way (Annual report, Unit for Religion Development Research: 2002). In order to empower the volunteers, it is important that social workers understand their role in the empowerment process. The aim of the study is to clarify the task of the social worker regarding the empowerment of volunteers at religious based organisations. This study is a descriptive study, seeing that the empowerment of volunteers are described at the end of the research (Mouton, 2001:54). The study also contains elements of an exploring (investigation) study, seeing that the situation has been explored in practice. After completion of a literate study, an empirical investigation was done with the aim to investigate principles of empowerment in practice. For the purpose of this study, the universe is regarded as the social workers who work at religious based organisations in the working area of the Valcare Trust. Deliberate selection, according to the non-probability test sampling as described by Babbie and Mouton (2001:166-168) was used to obtain the test sample. The type of test sample selection is applicable where the researcher is conversant with the research problem and the universe (Rubin and Babbie, 1993). Deliberate selection is therefore based on the researcher’s judgement and the aim of the study (Rubin and Babbie, 1993). The researcher is well conversant with the universe, seeing that the social workers are working at religious based organisations that are registered on the database of the Valcare Trust. Questionnaires, consisting of structured questions were compiled after completion of the literate study for the purpose of the empirical study. The self administered questionnaires were supplied to the respondents. Thirteen respondents took part in the empirical study.
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.
Die benutting van musiek in maatskaplike groepwerk met dwelmafhanklikes
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2003-03) Pieterse, Luna; Kruger, S. P.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: An exploratory study was conducted to determine the nature and extent of the emotions and emotional experiences of alcoholics and chemically dependent adults. The study was also conducted to explore the theoretical field of music therapy and determine how music can be utilized to social group work with alcoholics and chemically dependent adults. The exploratory study was also conducted to determine how many knowledge social workers have about music therapy, and to what extent they believe it can practically be used in social group work with alcoholics and chemically dependent adults. The researchers' interest in group work and the importance of the use of creative aids during group work is the motivation for this study. The aim of the study is thus to establish guidelines for the use of music in social group work in order to provide effective intervention for alcoholics and chemically dependent adults. The most general personality traits, emotions, defence mechanisms, communication and motivational problems of alcoholics and chemically dependent adults, have been enclosed in the literature study. The corresponding principles, goals and intervention processes of group work and music therapy was also highlighted. Focus was especially placed on the corresponding functions of group work and music namely the handling of defence mechanisms, the exploration and expression of emotions, the improvement of communication, the development of a positive self-esteem, socialisation and the facilitation of personal motivation. The value of group work and music in the addressing of alcoholics' and chemically dependent adults' problems and needs, has been investigated because of the specific corresponding functions of group work and music. The umversum IS social workers at institutions that make use of group work interventions in their treatment programmes for alcoholics and chemically dependent adults. A combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods was used, namely structured interviews as well as structured questionnaires. The results of this study generally confirmed the findings of the literature study. The recommendations can be divided into three areas namely recommendations concerning policy, programmes and training of social workers, recommendations concerning the corresponding functions of group work and music, and recommendations concerning future research. The importance of further research in the testing of the value of music in group work for specific client groups was especially recommended.
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.
Die benutting van speltegnieke tydens maatskaplike gevallewerkintervensie met die kinderhuiskind
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008-12) Swart, Petra; Engelbrecht, Lambert; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
The purpose of this study is to develop a theoretical framework for social workers in children’s homes that may be used for play techniques during social casework intervention with a children’s home child. The influence that the placement in a children’s home has on the child, creates the context for this study. Specific behaviour- and emotional problems that exist within the child were identified and play techniques for the solving of these problems was described. The research was done based on an extensive literature study, which focused on the role and function of a children’s home, the needs, behaviour- and emotional problems of the children’s home child and the usage of a practice framework and play techniques by social workers. A combined qualitative and quantitative research method and an explorative and describing research design have been used in this study, since this combination resulted in reaching the goal of the study. The empirical research investigated the usage of play techniques by social workers during social casework intervention with a children’s home child. The overall sample consisted of the 23 children’s homes in the Cape Metropole where currently 31 social workers are employed. Semistructured questionnaires were used as an interview instrument with an availability test sample consisting of 18 social workers. In light of the findings derived from the literature study and empirical research, appropriate conclusions and related recommendations were made. The main conclusion of the study is that the participants use play techniques randomly and not in conjunction with a practice framework. The main recommendation of this study is that social workers should use play techniques during social casework intervention, based on a specific practice framework in order to assure responsiveness. Continuous education in this regard is the responsibility of each social worker working in a children’s home.
Bydrae van maatskaplike werkers tot die aanpassing van die pleegkind in middelkinderjare in 'n pleegsorgplasing
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009-12) Swanepoel, Santerien; Green, Sulina; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: „n Beskrywende studie met „n verkennende inslag is in die studie gebruik om meer kennis en begrip oor die bydrae van maatskaplike werkers tot die aanpassing van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare in „n pleegsorgplasing, te verkry. Die navorser het bewus geraak van die toename in die gebruik van pleegsorg vir „n sorgbehoewende kind in middelkinderjare, sowel as die tekort aan literatuur in Suid-Afrika oor die bydrae wat die maatskaplike werker lewer tot sodanige aanpassing binne „n pleegsorgplasing. Die genoemde aspekte het gedien as motivering vir die studie. Die bydrae wat maatskaplike werkers het tot die aanpassing van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare in „n pleegsorgplasing is ondersoek. Die doel van die studie is om ŉ beter begrip te ontwikkel vir die bydrae wat maatskaplike werkers tydens pleegsorgplasing tot die aanpassing van ŉ middeljare pleegkind kan maak. Die literatuurstudie het die aard van pleegsorg ten opsigte van die pleegkind in middelkinderjare weergegee, waarna pleegsorg as „n proses beskryf is: van voorkomende dienste tot permanensieplasing. Spesifieke aandag is gegee aan die pleegkind in middelkinderjare se ontwikkelingsproses asook die bydrae wat die maatskaplike werker maak tot die aanpassing van die pleegkind in middelkinderjare in „n pleegsorgplasing. Aangesien die literatuur meestal konsentreer op die maatskaplike werker betrokke by „n pleegsorgplasing van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare, het die steekproef bestaan uit 22 maatskaplike werkers wat by twee nie-regeringsinstansies in die Wes-Kaap en Suid-Kaap werksaam is. Die deelnemers is ten minste „n jaar reeds as geregistreerde maatskaplike werkers werksaam en het ook ondervinding in pleegsorgplasings. In die studie is daar gebuik gemaak van die kombinasie van ‟n kwalitatiewe en kwantitatiewe navorsingsbenadering, te wete „n geskeduleerde, semi-gestruktureerde vraelys wat beide oop en geslote vrae inhou wat uiteengesit is op inligting wat verkry is uit die literatuurstudie. Die ondersoek het „n bygedra gelewer tot die uitbreiding van kennis en inligting in die maatskaplikewerkpraktyk ten opsigte van die bydrae wat maatksaplike werkers lewer tot die aanpassing van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare binne „n pleegsorgplasing. Die resultate het grotendeels die literatuurstudie bevestig, te wete dat maatskaplike werkers „n breë spektrum van dienslewering tydens die pleegsorgproses implementer, asook die ouderdom en ontwikkelingsvlak van „n pleegkind in ag neem tydens „n pleegsorgplasing. Eersgenoemde dienste word gerig tot die pleegouers, biologiese ouers, asook die betrokke pleegkinders ten einde dienslewering in die verband te bevorder. Maatskaplike werkers se aandeel in die aanpassingsproses van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare blyk wisselend te wees. Beperkte tyd en „n groot werkslading verhoed maatskaplike werkers om op „n kontinue basis ondersteuning vir die aanpassing van „n pleegkind in middelkinderjare, sowel as vir die pleegouers in „n pleegsorgplasing te bied. In die aanbevelings is daar gefokus op drie areas insluitende, die bydrae van „n maatskaplike werker, pleegkinders en pleegsouers. Die behoefte aan meer opleiding in die gebied van pleegsorg en ondersteuning in „n pleegsorgplasing, aan maatskaplike werkers, pleegouers en pleegkinders is geïdentifiseer as die sentrale temas. As aanbeveling vir verdere navorsing kan gefokus word op verskeie faktore wat bydraend is tot onsuksesvolle aanpassing binne „n pleesorgplasing met die oog op „n in-diepte beskrywing van hierdie fenomeen, asook die daarstelling van riglyne aan die hand waarvan die aanpassingsproses van pleegkinders en pleegouers tot groter effektiwiteit bevorder kan word. Dit beteken ook dat die rol van die maatskaplike werker met betrekking tot die tersaaklike onderwerp aangepas kan word ten einde sodanige aanpassing meer effektief aan te spreek.
Capacity building for farm workers on Solms-Delta Wine Estate : a social development perspective
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-12) Ruddock, Frances; Green, Sulina; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Wine farms in the Western Cape represent one of the pillars of the region's economy. The social problems that are prevalent among farm workers and their families have evolved over centuries along with the wine industry; the unique set of social, economic, and political conditions affecting rural dwellers in the Western Cape have created a set of challenges impeding a productive future. The interventions at Solms-Delta Wine Estate have empowered the farm community and thus provide a template for social reform. Capacity development initiatives have been central to the farm's management plan. The employment of a fulltime social worker allowed resource gathering to implement social reforms on the farm. The present study investigated the evolution of an approach that encompasses the social development perspective of social work theory. This study is an example of the methods used to bring about stronger community development capacity. The goal of the study was to gain an understanding of the nature of capacity-building initiatives on the wine farm under review from a social development perspective. A review of the historical roots of farm worker subjugation was undertaken to uncover the social dynamic of farm worker community development. Secondly, the study has outlined the political, economic, and legal institutional parameters for rural development. A third strand of the narrative describes the nature of capacity-building initiatives undertaken over the preceding six years, and their impact on the social development of the target community. Finally, the study explored the impact of local capacity development via a semi-structured questionnaire and subsequent interviews with the twenty-one participants. The results of the research outlined in this study provide a number of templates for social work interventions in rural communities on wine farms in the Western Cape. Given the centrality of the wine farm industry in the Western Cape, the success of social welfare initiatives at Solms-Delta delineates road maps for other community-based programmes that can be launched from the lessons of this study. The locality development model, with its emphasis on community input in problem solving provides a framework for countering the unique set of challenges created from the inception of colonialism up to the end of Apartheid social engineering. The empowering environment developed at Solms-Delta offers insight into rolling back historical ills and entitlement issues that bedevil social work practice. Successful community participation requires research into specific community dynamics and the resources to empower one of South Africa's most impoverished social strata.
Case management by social workers of sexually abused children in the Moses Kotane District Municipality
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-04) Letsholo, Boitumelo Joyce; Green, Sulina; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The study of case management of sexually abused children by social workers was conducted in the Moses Kotane District Municipality, because of the following reasons: firstly, there is an escalation of reported cases that are referred from various service organizations to the Department of Social Services; secondly the statutory policies alone cannot be the absolute protection for children against sexual abuse; thirdly, as communities seem to ignore their roles in protecting children against this problem. The social workers end up carrying the ultimate responsibility to protect children. An exploratory study was therefore undertaken to investigate how social workers in the Moses Kotane District Municipality intervene in these cases. It is crucial for professionals to have the necessary knowledge, skills and correct attitude when they intervene in child sexual abuse cases. The study explored the various dynamics that motivate this problem as well as the circumstances that can expose children to the risk of child sexual abuse. Motivation to abuse children in the Moses Kotane District Municipality emanated from the family circumstances, characteristics of the abusive father(s) as well as a lack of community child care resources The social workers need to have insight in various risk factors of this problem. These may include the circumstances surrounding the child, community factors, societal factors, family factors and the attributes of professionals dealing with child sexual abuse cases. The knowledge of the dynamics and risk factors assists social workers to assess whether the child has been abused and to do risk assessment as well as need assessment of the victims and their families. Such information can assist the social workers to make a safety plan of action regarding the child victims. It is therefore vital that the social workers identify the nature of case management style through which they render services to sexually abused children. Direct service delivery, which is preferred by most social workers in the agency, and indirect service delivery are the two types of case management styles that social workers can employ, depending on whether they work in a generic social work setting or private child welfare agency. Although social workers may have the expertise and skill to intervene effectively in child sexual abuse cases, their interventions may be affected by various challenges and result in ineffective service delivery to the victims and perpetrators of child sexual abuse. These challenges may include working conditions that are adverse, community trials of cases of child sexual abuse and unresponsive agency management. Other challenges may include resistance from clients, lack of supervision, lack of training in child sexual abuse work as well as the demanding nature of child sexual abuse work. Throughout the process of case management the social workers need to liaise and cooperate with the multi-professional team comprising of the police (CPU), medical personnel, the prosecutor(s), a psychologist as well as the family members. The team may vary from one agency to the other, however, the social worker, police and medical personnel need to be available at all the team meetings. None of these professionals is supposed to assess victims alone, because the assessment should be focused on the social, medical, psychological, legal, physical and material needs of sexually abused children. It is imperative that social workers are aware of how their attitudes, beliefs, emotions, perceptions and feelings affect the effectiveness of service delivery to these children. The professionals therefore need to be skilled to react responsively and professionally to the victims. Social skills are important for creating worthy client - worker relationships and to enhance accountability in role relationships between the clients and the professionals. By applying interactional skills, the social workers can create a child-friendly atmosphere during intervention, as the social worker can be able to listen empathetically and deal with feelings that surface during the interviews. By applying cognitive skills, the professionals can be in a position to "read" subtle emotions and feelings of the clients and assess the level of their cognitive functioning. The application of theory in practice is vital during intervention as decisions; judgement and interventions should be professional and not haphazard. The social worker thus needs to have knowledge of the perspectives, theories and models of social work. This study has provided such a framework to guide social workers in managing cases of child sexual abuse.
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.
Challenges experienced by kinship foster caregivers
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03 ) Collins, Litiesha Fredlien; Strydom, M.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child underscores the importance of a family environment for every child by stating that every child has "the right to know and be cared for by his or her parents". This is a matter of concern, as the quality of the child's upbringing is a determining factor in their well-being and overall emotional and behavioural development. If children are deprived of a stable upbringing in their early years, it could definitely influence their transition into adulthood. The practice of extended family (kin) raising family children who are deprived of their own biological parental care is ancient. However, kinship foster caregivers take on this role or responsibility under different and sometimes difficult circumstances. These circumstances may include neglect by biological parents, parental misuse of alcohol and drugs, incarceration of one or both biological parents, the death of one or both biological parents, HIV Aids, or a family crises situation. The motivation for the study was to investigate the challenges that kinship foster caregivers experience during or after the placement of the family child into their care. This information could be utilised by social workers who are responsible for rendering services to kinship foster carers according to South African policy and legislation. The strengths perspective was utilised as a lens through which the researcher tried to understand the resilience that kinship foster caregivers displayed when taking care of family children. The research document contains three literature chapters, the first of which serves as a methodological framework regarding the execution of the study. In the second chapter, the relevant international, regional, and national policies and legislation relating to foster care are presented. This is followed by the third chapter which outlines the challenges experienced by kinship foster caregivers when taking care of the children of family and the social work services they receive and need. The literature review serves as a framework regarding the conceptualisation of the challenges that kinship foster caregivers typically experience. Relevant international, regional, and national policies and legislation pertaining to foster care as well as challenges experienced in social work service delivery in South Africa are presented. For this research, a qualitative approach was utilised to capture the rich accounts of kinship foster caregivers about the challenges they experience with the placement of a child into their care. Descriptive and exploratory research designs were used to substantiate the capturing of various narratives from the participants. Participants were approached by applying the purposive sampling method and 17 participants were then interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. The data gathered was analysed using a thematic content analysis approach. The study highlighted that kinship foster caregivers have many challenges, whether child- or family-related and personal challenges, to deal with. Furthermore, kinship foster caregivers also experience various financial and emotional challenges. It is recommended that social services should be delivered, not only to the children being cared for, but also to the kinship foster caregivers, especially as this form of kinship care is the most widely practised form of substitute care for children in need of care and protection in South Africa. It is also recommended that kinship foster caregivers must have access to professional services.
Challenges experienced by service users during substance dependency aftercare and reintegration services
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-12) Gibbons, Emma; Slabbert, Ilze; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Substance dependency has been a growing epidemic for the past century, and difficulties surrounding this disorder are not easily overcome. In this light, the recent relapse statistics being as high as 75% after a 3 to 6 month period of a recovering addict receiving formal treatment are extremely alarming. Consequently, the goal of the research study was to gain an understanding of the challenges experienced by adult service users during aftercare and reintegration services for substance dependency. The study utilised the Biopsychosocial model as a theoretical underpinning to distinguish between the various biological, psychological, social and cultural challenges surrounding aftercare and reintegration services for recovering addicts. A qualitative research approach with some quantitative elements, along with an exploratory and descriptive research design, was followed for this study. Ethical clearance was obtained. The empirical data that was collected was done through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 18 participants. These participants were formerly discharged from formal treatment for substance dependency and are currently service users of aftercare and reintegration services. Certain criteria for inclusion applied. Participation in this study was voluntarily and participants could withdraw from the study if they wished to. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed by the researcher. Through the data collected and analysed, four themes with relevant sub-themes and categories emerged. The four themes identified were biological challenges, psychological challenges, social challenges and cultural challenges. The data was also verified as far as possible by ensuring credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. To meet the aim of the study, the researcher described the literature, policy and legislative frameworks pertaining to current substance dependency aftercare services and explored service users’ lived experiences with aftercare services. By empirically investigating the research topic, the views and experiences of service users regarding their challenges during aftercare and reintegration services were explored. Thereafter, the contextualised literature and empirical findings were reviewed, so that the researcher was able to provide relevant conclusions and recommendations. It is evident from this study that service users are experiencing several challenges during aftercare and Stellenbosch University https://scholar.sun.ac.za iii reintegration services. It is recommended that further research be conducted regarding these services for the dependent person as well as for the family. More research on the implementation procedures of policies and legislation during substance dependency aftercare and reintegration services is also recommended.
Challenges experienced by social welfare officers in the rehabilitation of incarcerated child offenders
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2016-03) Muyobela, Tamara Aggie; Strydom, Marianne; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Children as estimated make up a third of the world population and Africa alone accounts for the highest percentage of children. However, it has been established that world over one million children are detained in prisons. This is an indication that besides other alternative/diversion options, children in conflict with the law are still incarcerated. The incarcerated child offenders undergo rehabilitation which is aimed at changing aspects regarded as the cause of criminal behaviour, such as attitudes, cognitive processes, social relationships, education and vocational skills. Paying attention to the various factors that may impede effective rehabilitation of child offenders is imperative for finding effective solutions that in the end contribute in preventing recidivism. This study therefore aimed to investigate the challenges experienced by social welfare officers in rehabilitating incarcerated child offenders. A literature study aimed at describing the legislation and policy utilized in child justice programs and theories applied in designing rehabilitation programs was done. Thereafter an empirical investigation was conducted. Quantitative and qualitative research methodology was employed and explorative and descriptive research designs were utilized. Purposeful non-probability sampling was utilized to involve social welfare officers employed at the Ministry of Community and Social Development in Zambia in the study. Twenty social welfare officers that met the inclusion criteria for the study were selected to participate. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect the data during the empirical investigation. Through analyzing the results the researcher made certain conclusions and recommendations with regards to the challenges experienced by social welfare officers in rehabilitating child offenders. The most important conclusions resulting from the research study indicated that social welfare officers are faced with a myriad of challenges in rehabilitating child offenders. The main challenge was the lack of resources which include: the lack of social work training among social welfare officers; the lack of human resources; the lack of organizational resources and the lack of coordination among stakeholders. The research study therefore recommends that the gap in organizational and human resources should be filled and especially that social welfare officers must be trained social workers. Furthermore, it is recommended that the Zambian government should enact legislation that mainly sets principles relating to the care and protection of children.

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