Disrupting the familiar family in postcolonial literature
- Authors: Laubscher, Emma Kate
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Postcolonialism in literature , Families -- Fiction , Interpersonal relations in literature , Families in literature , Gender identity in literature , Gappah, Petina, 1971- -- Criticism and interpretation , Enright, Anne, 1962- -- Criticism and interpretation , Owuor, Yvonne Adhiambo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/153757 , vital:39516
- Description: Anne Enright’s The Green Road, Petina Gappah’s The Book of Memory and Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor’s Dust offer various disruptive representations that challenge the normative family, and allow for an excavation of the potency and pervasiveness of the notion of family as an organising social principle, in a postcolonial context. Through these novels’ depictions of unorthodox families, it becomes possible to unpack the metaphorical architecture that underpins the normative family – by which I mean that social formation which enables and relies upon gender binaries, heteronormative constructions of sexuality and exclusionary racial structures. Additionally, I will attempt to examine the role that the normative family plays in shaping the subject, and determining its avenues of association, through encountering the disruptive possibilities portrayed in Gappah, Owuor and Enright’s works. My analysis is concerned with how the family orientates the subject in particular ways that regulate and delimit the subject’s means of relating to herself, those who surround her and the historic and mnemonic pasts in which she is embedded. In representing alternate kinship structures, these novels expand the aesthetic and imaginative landscape of the family and allow for new forms of relation to emerge. These transgressive and radical ways of being, knowing and loving have disruptive consequences for those social formations which are structured by, and draw on, the family – in particular the nation state. This reworking of the nation state, as well as the destabilisation of the relations between nations states, provides new avenues for inhabiting the postcolonial world. In particular, my reading argues that representations of the unfamiliar family offer different ways of receiving and relating to the self, others, and the past within a social order ruptured by the violent legacies of colonisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Laubscher, Emma Kate
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Postcolonialism in literature , Families -- Fiction , Interpersonal relations in literature , Families in literature , Gender identity in literature , Gappah, Petina, 1971- -- Criticism and interpretation , Enright, Anne, 1962- -- Criticism and interpretation , Owuor, Yvonne Adhiambo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/153757 , vital:39516
- Description: Anne Enright’s The Green Road, Petina Gappah’s The Book of Memory and Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor’s Dust offer various disruptive representations that challenge the normative family, and allow for an excavation of the potency and pervasiveness of the notion of family as an organising social principle, in a postcolonial context. Through these novels’ depictions of unorthodox families, it becomes possible to unpack the metaphorical architecture that underpins the normative family – by which I mean that social formation which enables and relies upon gender binaries, heteronormative constructions of sexuality and exclusionary racial structures. Additionally, I will attempt to examine the role that the normative family plays in shaping the subject, and determining its avenues of association, through encountering the disruptive possibilities portrayed in Gappah, Owuor and Enright’s works. My analysis is concerned with how the family orientates the subject in particular ways that regulate and delimit the subject’s means of relating to herself, those who surround her and the historic and mnemonic pasts in which she is embedded. In representing alternate kinship structures, these novels expand the aesthetic and imaginative landscape of the family and allow for new forms of relation to emerge. These transgressive and radical ways of being, knowing and loving have disruptive consequences for those social formations which are structured by, and draw on, the family – in particular the nation state. This reworking of the nation state, as well as the destabilisation of the relations between nations states, provides new avenues for inhabiting the postcolonial world. In particular, my reading argues that representations of the unfamiliar family offer different ways of receiving and relating to the self, others, and the past within a social order ruptured by the violent legacies of colonisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effect of a physical activity intervention on the physical fitness of primary schoolchildren in disadvantaged communities in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effect of a web-based visual skills training programme on the visual performance of rugby players
- van Rensburg, Justine Jansen
- Authors: van Rensburg, Justine Jansen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rugby football -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects , Physical education and training Performance Sports -- Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42273 , vital:36641
- Description: With ever increasing important expectations being placed on professional sportsmen and women and, with the main emphasis on winning at all costs, the role of how vision can contribute to sports performance has been under the spotlight in the last few decades. While sport vision programmes can potentially play a vital role in improving sports performance, the efficacy of visual skills training on performance, however, has not been convincingly demonstrated and therefore is still debatable. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a web-based visual skills training programme on the visual skills performance of NMU Varsity Cup rugby players. The specific visual skills included accommodation, saccadic eye movement, reaction time and peripheral awareness. The study was quasi-experimental in nature and utilized a quantitative approach. A total number of 23 participants that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study by means of purposive sampling. Optometric assessments, on the advice of an optometrist, were conducted to ensure “normal” vision among the participants included in the study. A systematic procedure was employed based on the pre-test to allocate the 23 participants to either a control group (CG) (n=8), an experimental group one (EG1) (n=9) and an experimental group two (EG2) (n=6). The two experimental groups underwent four weeks of visual skills training with the EG1 receiving the web-based visual skills training and EG2 receiving the dynamic visual skills training. The tests used consisted of the Hart Near Far Rock Chart, a Saccadic eye movement chart, simple reaction time and choice reaction time as well as the Batak Pro (Accumulator test). Pre- and post-test scores showed some differences but no statistically significant (p<0.05) differences were found between the three groups for any of the tests conducted. Overall the experimental groups produced larger (non-significant) either pre- to post-test mean differences or post-test results than the control group for six of the seven tests implemented. The findings of this study using a web-based visual skills training programme presented no statistically significant improvements nor better results than the dynamic visual skill training programme in respect of visual skill performance of NMU Varsity rugby players.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: van Rensburg, Justine Jansen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rugby football -- South Africa -- Physiological aspects , Physical education and training Performance Sports -- Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42273 , vital:36641
- Description: With ever increasing important expectations being placed on professional sportsmen and women and, with the main emphasis on winning at all costs, the role of how vision can contribute to sports performance has been under the spotlight in the last few decades. While sport vision programmes can potentially play a vital role in improving sports performance, the efficacy of visual skills training on performance, however, has not been convincingly demonstrated and therefore is still debatable. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a web-based visual skills training programme on the visual skills performance of NMU Varsity Cup rugby players. The specific visual skills included accommodation, saccadic eye movement, reaction time and peripheral awareness. The study was quasi-experimental in nature and utilized a quantitative approach. A total number of 23 participants that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study by means of purposive sampling. Optometric assessments, on the advice of an optometrist, were conducted to ensure “normal” vision among the participants included in the study. A systematic procedure was employed based on the pre-test to allocate the 23 participants to either a control group (CG) (n=8), an experimental group one (EG1) (n=9) and an experimental group two (EG2) (n=6). The two experimental groups underwent four weeks of visual skills training with the EG1 receiving the web-based visual skills training and EG2 receiving the dynamic visual skills training. The tests used consisted of the Hart Near Far Rock Chart, a Saccadic eye movement chart, simple reaction time and choice reaction time as well as the Batak Pro (Accumulator test). Pre- and post-test scores showed some differences but no statistically significant (p<0.05) differences were found between the three groups for any of the tests conducted. Overall the experimental groups produced larger (non-significant) either pre- to post-test mean differences or post-test results than the control group for six of the seven tests implemented. The findings of this study using a web-based visual skills training programme presented no statistically significant improvements nor better results than the dynamic visual skill training programme in respect of visual skill performance of NMU Varsity rugby players.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effect of school-based interventions on attention and academic performance of primary schoolchildren from lower socioeconomic communities in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Adams, Larissa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic achievement -- South Africa , Exercise -- Physiological aspects Physical education for children Physical education and training
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42085 , vital:36624
- Description: Health benefits associated with regular physical activity (PA) have been widely established. Regular PA is not only associated with improved physical and psychological well-being, but also with improved brain function and cognition, thereby enhancing academic performance (AP). Despite these benefits, decreasing levels of PA and increasing levels of overweight and obesity exist world-wide, making childhood physical inactivity a global concern. Research suggests children who meet the recommended PA guidelines of 60-minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity attain substantially higher academic grades. Schools provide ideal settings for PA promotion due to the substantial amount of time children spend at school. However, in many countries, including South Africa (SA), Physical Education (PE) programmes have been reduced and replaced with other subjects to increase AP. Furthermore, a scarcity of water, limited accessibility to improved sanitation and lack of personal hygiene at home and in school substantially contributes to the burden of preventable childhood diseases. These hygiene-related illnesses augment the cycle of poverty and disease through its detrimental effect on children’s school attendance, academic performance and productivity. Studies also show that obesity, poor nutrition and food insufficiency affect children’s school achievement. Hence, the school environment plays an essential role in improving children’s health, since many teaching opportunities about important health and nutrition practices are provided. The primary aim of this study was to determine the effect of various combinations of school-based interventions on the attention and AP of primary schoolchildren from disadvantaged communities in Port Elizabeth. Overall, 857 schoolchildren (n = 434 boys and n = 423 girls, aged 8 – 13 years) participated in the study. A 10-week cluster randomised controlled trial using four experimental and four control schools was conducted. Setting-specific interventions incorporated PA, health and hygiene education and nutrition components. The d2 Test of Attention measured selective visual attention and concentration with outcome measures of the percentage of errors, total performance and concentration performance. End of year school results were used to assess AP. Post-intervention and pre- to post-intervention differences between the inter-school comparisons revealed mixed results for the attention and AP measurements, therefore, no conclusions could be drawn regarding the assessed variables. Intervention group comparisons at post-intervention indicated that the PA intervention group achieved a statistically significant improvement (p < .05 and d > 0.8) for AP, when compared with the non-PA intervention group. No significant differences were found for AP in relation to intervention group comparisons for the health and hygiene education and nutrition intervention groups. Similarly, the intervention group comparisons revealed no significant differences regarding attention for post-intervention and pre- to post-intervention differences. Findings suggest that a school-based PA intervention can positively affect children’s AP. The current study emphasises the necessity of PA and reinforces the importance of PE in the school curriculum. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that PE regains its rightful place and be actively taught within the school curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Adams, Larissa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Academic achievement -- South Africa , Exercise -- Physiological aspects Physical education for children Physical education and training
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42085 , vital:36624
- Description: Health benefits associated with regular physical activity (PA) have been widely established. Regular PA is not only associated with improved physical and psychological well-being, but also with improved brain function and cognition, thereby enhancing academic performance (AP). Despite these benefits, decreasing levels of PA and increasing levels of overweight and obesity exist world-wide, making childhood physical inactivity a global concern. Research suggests children who meet the recommended PA guidelines of 60-minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity attain substantially higher academic grades. Schools provide ideal settings for PA promotion due to the substantial amount of time children spend at school. However, in many countries, including South Africa (SA), Physical Education (PE) programmes have been reduced and replaced with other subjects to increase AP. Furthermore, a scarcity of water, limited accessibility to improved sanitation and lack of personal hygiene at home and in school substantially contributes to the burden of preventable childhood diseases. These hygiene-related illnesses augment the cycle of poverty and disease through its detrimental effect on children’s school attendance, academic performance and productivity. Studies also show that obesity, poor nutrition and food insufficiency affect children’s school achievement. Hence, the school environment plays an essential role in improving children’s health, since many teaching opportunities about important health and nutrition practices are provided. The primary aim of this study was to determine the effect of various combinations of school-based interventions on the attention and AP of primary schoolchildren from disadvantaged communities in Port Elizabeth. Overall, 857 schoolchildren (n = 434 boys and n = 423 girls, aged 8 – 13 years) participated in the study. A 10-week cluster randomised controlled trial using four experimental and four control schools was conducted. Setting-specific interventions incorporated PA, health and hygiene education and nutrition components. The d2 Test of Attention measured selective visual attention and concentration with outcome measures of the percentage of errors, total performance and concentration performance. End of year school results were used to assess AP. Post-intervention and pre- to post-intervention differences between the inter-school comparisons revealed mixed results for the attention and AP measurements, therefore, no conclusions could be drawn regarding the assessed variables. Intervention group comparisons at post-intervention indicated that the PA intervention group achieved a statistically significant improvement (p < .05 and d > 0.8) for AP, when compared with the non-PA intervention group. No significant differences were found for AP in relation to intervention group comparisons for the health and hygiene education and nutrition intervention groups. Similarly, the intervention group comparisons revealed no significant differences regarding attention for post-intervention and pre- to post-intervention differences. Findings suggest that a school-based PA intervention can positively affect children’s AP. The current study emphasises the necessity of PA and reinforces the importance of PE in the school curriculum. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that PE regains its rightful place and be actively taught within the school curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effectiveness of rural development programmes in marginalized rural areas: Umzimvubu Local Municipality
- Authors: Mndela, Ntandokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41043 , vital:36285
- Description: Rural development projects (RDPs) present a means to develop communities while providing employment for community members in marginalised rural areas (MRAs). This study investigated the efficacy of RDPs by focussing on a target RDP in the Umzimvubu local municipality. In the area under investigation, a community development project was established by the community members with the aid of the government. The project witnessed a gradual death over time. This study investigated the reasons for failure of the community development project with the objective of determining the efficacy of RDP as a means to emancipate marginalised rural communities, and to provide guidelines that could be used in initiating and maintaining the sustainable operation of future rural community development projects. The study was conducted through a descriptive research approach. Questionnaires were employed to collect information. The study revealed that poor project management and monitoring and a lack of community participation, community input in decision-making, participation of young people and continued technical and financial support from the government were the major challenges confronting this community development projects in MRAs. Furthermore, the study revealed that the impacts of RDPs were more prominent at a micro-level, as beneficiaries were mostly the people directly associated with the project. The study concluded by prescribing a set of guidelines that could be adopted in starting and running RDPs in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mndela, Ntandokazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41043 , vital:36285
- Description: Rural development projects (RDPs) present a means to develop communities while providing employment for community members in marginalised rural areas (MRAs). This study investigated the efficacy of RDPs by focussing on a target RDP in the Umzimvubu local municipality. In the area under investigation, a community development project was established by the community members with the aid of the government. The project witnessed a gradual death over time. This study investigated the reasons for failure of the community development project with the objective of determining the efficacy of RDP as a means to emancipate marginalised rural communities, and to provide guidelines that could be used in initiating and maintaining the sustainable operation of future rural community development projects. The study was conducted through a descriptive research approach. Questionnaires were employed to collect information. The study revealed that poor project management and monitoring and a lack of community participation, community input in decision-making, participation of young people and continued technical and financial support from the government were the major challenges confronting this community development projects in MRAs. Furthermore, the study revealed that the impacts of RDPs were more prominent at a micro-level, as beneficiaries were mostly the people directly associated with the project. The study concluded by prescribing a set of guidelines that could be adopted in starting and running RDPs in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Ekhakhamela
- Authors: Machi, Nolwazi Fortunate
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Xhosa poetry
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76332 , vital:30549
- Description: My collection of isiZulu poems is based on my rural and traditional upbringing. It draws on language and customs which have shaped and defined me as a woman born in the South of KwaZulu-Natal. I write about how I have to conform to both a rural life and an urban one that forms my second world. I find myself having to switch between these lives, which benefits me a lot, and I feel a responsibility to bring hope to young people especially from the rural side, that nothing is wrong with being who and where they are. My writing is influenced by authors such as Nazim Hikmet, Mafika Gwala, and Mazisi Kunene who encourages black writers to write about their own customs and stories rather than embracing ‘western civilization’ and foreign languages. I also like the contemporary subjects and the humour in Dr Nakanjani Sibiya’s work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Machi, Nolwazi Fortunate
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Xhosa poetry
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76332 , vital:30549
- Description: My collection of isiZulu poems is based on my rural and traditional upbringing. It draws on language and customs which have shaped and defined me as a woman born in the South of KwaZulu-Natal. I write about how I have to conform to both a rural life and an urban one that forms my second world. I find myself having to switch between these lives, which benefits me a lot, and I feel a responsibility to bring hope to young people especially from the rural side, that nothing is wrong with being who and where they are. My writing is influenced by authors such as Nazim Hikmet, Mafika Gwala, and Mazisi Kunene who encourages black writers to write about their own customs and stories rather than embracing ‘western civilization’ and foreign languages. I also like the contemporary subjects and the humour in Dr Nakanjani Sibiya’s work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Empire in Lusaka: hip-hop, young men and masculinity in an African city
- Authors: Mulolani, Happy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Empire (Television program : 2015) -- Influence , Hip-hop -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Psychology -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Social conditions -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Rap musicians -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Masculinity -- Zambia -- Lusaka
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92650 , vital:30736
- Description: This study examines young Zambian men who are aspiring hip hop artists in Lusaka and the meanings they make of the representations of masculinity in Empire, a popular US television drama. Broadcast locally via satellite on the South African cable network, DStv, Empire narrates the story of a family of powerful men as they battle for the control of Empire, a successful hip-hop label. Of significance is how the programme’s representations of masculinity resonate with the young men’s own ideas of masculinity within a highly patriarchal and conservative urban African space. The young male hip-hop artists encounter their everyday experiences in a context of a range of socio-economic challenges within the urban space of Lusaka which presents them with very limited economic opportunities and resources. Underpinned by a constructivist approach, this reception study explores how these young male artists encounter their everyday experiences in the city and how its structural constraints are navigated through hip-hop, a highly popular local cultural form. The male artists’ reactions to the programme are dependent on their socio-economic location and the types of skills and resources they draw on in order to traverse their everyday experience of city life which concurrently is perceived as exclusionary and as impacting on their livelihoods and aspirations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mulolani, Happy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Empire (Television program : 2015) -- Influence , Hip-hop -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Psychology -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Young men -- Social conditions -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Rap musicians -- Zambia -- Lusaka , Masculinity -- Zambia -- Lusaka
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92650 , vital:30736
- Description: This study examines young Zambian men who are aspiring hip hop artists in Lusaka and the meanings they make of the representations of masculinity in Empire, a popular US television drama. Broadcast locally via satellite on the South African cable network, DStv, Empire narrates the story of a family of powerful men as they battle for the control of Empire, a successful hip-hop label. Of significance is how the programme’s representations of masculinity resonate with the young men’s own ideas of masculinity within a highly patriarchal and conservative urban African space. The young male hip-hop artists encounter their everyday experiences in a context of a range of socio-economic challenges within the urban space of Lusaka which presents them with very limited economic opportunities and resources. Underpinned by a constructivist approach, this reception study explores how these young male artists encounter their everyday experiences in the city and how its structural constraints are navigated through hip-hop, a highly popular local cultural form. The male artists’ reactions to the programme are dependent on their socio-economic location and the types of skills and resources they draw on in order to traverse their everyday experience of city life which concurrently is perceived as exclusionary and as impacting on their livelihoods and aspirations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Evaluating the benefits of the extended public works programme in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Lindani-Beni, Bulelwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public service employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Job creation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Public works -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40555 , vital:36182
- Description: Public Works Programmes (PWPs) are interventions implemented by the government to overcome the high levels of unemployment and to provide the poor with salaries so that they can meet their basic needs. This was done in response to the United Nations (UN) call to meet the sustainable development goals adopted in 2015. The study defines PWPs and gives an overview of the categories of the intervention programmes. Different countries use the PWPs for different aims from poverty reduction, response to economic shocks and guaranteed employment. Most of the countries, like South Africa, use these programmes as a temporary relief. Unemployment remains a challenge in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) and the municipality has always been unsuccessful in reaching the targets expected in job creation. The study compares the South African Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) with the two other international programmes, India and Malawi. The analysis of the three phases of the South African EPWP since its inception in 2004 is done in this study. The paper analysed the BCMM’s EPWP projects in the Eastern Cape where there is a high level of unemployment and a high degree of rural-urban migration. An overview of the Malawi Social Action Fund (MASAF) and India’s National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGA) is also presented in this study. The researcher analysed documents and desktop reviews for the study. The available information such as the programme strategic plans, logical frameworks, policy documents, implementation reports, academic journals and media reports were consulted for this study. The study highlighted challenges in the South African EPWP which contributes towards the inefficiency of the programme in reducing the high levels of unemployment in the BCMM. The researcher provided recommendations that may improve the effectiveness of the public works programme in South Africa. One recommendation is the development of a Management Information System for EPWP that can assist the government in monitoring and evaluating the whole programme in the different departments and municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Lindani-Beni, Bulelwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public service employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Job creation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Public works -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40555 , vital:36182
- Description: Public Works Programmes (PWPs) are interventions implemented by the government to overcome the high levels of unemployment and to provide the poor with salaries so that they can meet their basic needs. This was done in response to the United Nations (UN) call to meet the sustainable development goals adopted in 2015. The study defines PWPs and gives an overview of the categories of the intervention programmes. Different countries use the PWPs for different aims from poverty reduction, response to economic shocks and guaranteed employment. Most of the countries, like South Africa, use these programmes as a temporary relief. Unemployment remains a challenge in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) and the municipality has always been unsuccessful in reaching the targets expected in job creation. The study compares the South African Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) with the two other international programmes, India and Malawi. The analysis of the three phases of the South African EPWP since its inception in 2004 is done in this study. The paper analysed the BCMM’s EPWP projects in the Eastern Cape where there is a high level of unemployment and a high degree of rural-urban migration. An overview of the Malawi Social Action Fund (MASAF) and India’s National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGA) is also presented in this study. The researcher analysed documents and desktop reviews for the study. The available information such as the programme strategic plans, logical frameworks, policy documents, implementation reports, academic journals and media reports were consulted for this study. The study highlighted challenges in the South African EPWP which contributes towards the inefficiency of the programme in reducing the high levels of unemployment in the BCMM. The researcher provided recommendations that may improve the effectiveness of the public works programme in South Africa. One recommendation is the development of a Management Information System for EPWP that can assist the government in monitoring and evaluating the whole programme in the different departments and municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Examining the position of black South African accents in English in Drama Departments within institutions in the Western Cape Province: a case study
- Authors: Seekoe, Leanetse Thato
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16397 , vital:40716
- Description: This dissertation examines the treatment and perceptions of black South African accents in English in the drama departments of specific institutions of higher learning in the Western Cape Province. The researcher is concerned with the handling of African native cultural identities in the curriculum policy of Drama Departments in higher education institutions in the Western Cape Province. Although the focus of the research is on the institutions that are based in the Western Cape Province, the subjects that are being discussed are representatives of black people in South Africa as a whole. To portray the issue of accents appropriately, the examination does often refer to language as a relatable concept. In the literature of this dissertation, there is ample support for the claim that language differences and disagreements in South Africa are due to the historical and socio-political stance of the European native. After examining the topic of power and social control, the study points out that the native is rarely in control of the interests of the European descendent. Thus, the relationship between the two is immediately assumed before it has even been established. For the purpose of this discussion, ambiguity is appreciated when intimacy between cultures evolves for the greater good. However, it is disregarded when individual voices are diluted into neutral or standard representations of a language. And so the act of reducing black South African accents in English to mirror that of the Euro-American culture robs the natives of their individuality and imprisons them into cultural assimilation. Ultimately, this study intends to identify different groups of black South Africans who speak English with accents. For clarity has divided into two separate groups namely privileged and unprivileged. Accents that are appreciated by white South African English speakers are considered to be privileged, while accents that carry the undertones of any mother-tongue language are recognised in this research study as unprivileged. The study wishes to present this phenomenon as a social issue that will negatively affect the growth of indigenous participation in performance spaces in the Western Cape which the study assumes as the context for the research. The implication of the study is to potentially eliminate issues of inferiority to those black South African accents that have been regarded as less valuable to dramatic performances in the Western Cape, to the extent that platforms of dramatic performances will broaden in order for black South African accents to be prioritised with relevant usage
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Seekoe, Leanetse Thato
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: English language
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16397 , vital:40716
- Description: This dissertation examines the treatment and perceptions of black South African accents in English in the drama departments of specific institutions of higher learning in the Western Cape Province. The researcher is concerned with the handling of African native cultural identities in the curriculum policy of Drama Departments in higher education institutions in the Western Cape Province. Although the focus of the research is on the institutions that are based in the Western Cape Province, the subjects that are being discussed are representatives of black people in South Africa as a whole. To portray the issue of accents appropriately, the examination does often refer to language as a relatable concept. In the literature of this dissertation, there is ample support for the claim that language differences and disagreements in South Africa are due to the historical and socio-political stance of the European native. After examining the topic of power and social control, the study points out that the native is rarely in control of the interests of the European descendent. Thus, the relationship between the two is immediately assumed before it has even been established. For the purpose of this discussion, ambiguity is appreciated when intimacy between cultures evolves for the greater good. However, it is disregarded when individual voices are diluted into neutral or standard representations of a language. And so the act of reducing black South African accents in English to mirror that of the Euro-American culture robs the natives of their individuality and imprisons them into cultural assimilation. Ultimately, this study intends to identify different groups of black South Africans who speak English with accents. For clarity has divided into two separate groups namely privileged and unprivileged. Accents that are appreciated by white South African English speakers are considered to be privileged, while accents that carry the undertones of any mother-tongue language are recognised in this research study as unprivileged. The study wishes to present this phenomenon as a social issue that will negatively affect the growth of indigenous participation in performance spaces in the Western Cape which the study assumes as the context for the research. The implication of the study is to potentially eliminate issues of inferiority to those black South African accents that have been regarded as less valuable to dramatic performances in the Western Cape, to the extent that platforms of dramatic performances will broaden in order for black South African accents to be prioritised with relevant usage
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Expectations and experiences of talent management across South Africa and the effect on retention
- Authors: Du Randt, Jean
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Employee selection Manpower planning Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39556 , vital:35290
- Description: The “war on talent” is intensifying and effective talent management strategies are imperative for business success. This study explores the expectations and experiences of talent management strategies amongst employees across South Africa and their impact on retention. The literature review covers the constructs of talent management, working environment, rewards, leadership, race, age and gender as well as retention. A quantitative survey approach with comparative studies was adopted. A snowball convenience sampling method was used with links to an on-line questionnaire e-mailed to potential respondents. A total of 711 useable responses were received. Statistical analysis included factor analysis, Cronbach alpha reliability testing, mean factor scores, paired samplet-tests, Pearson’s correlations, T-tests and ANOVAs. The study found that leadership was the factor rated as most important followed by working environment and development. Respondents reported significant differences between expectations and employer ratings on all factors, with cash rewards being the greatest source of dissatisfaction. Experiences of work environment, leadership and development indicated stronger correlations to retention than cash rewards. Women, millennials and non-whites demonstrated the highest retention risks. A significant negative correlation was found between the respondents’ reported experience of leadership, work environment and development and the importance they attached to cash rewards. The study supports Hertzberg’s classification of cash rewards as a hygiene factor and Alderfer’s ERG theory’s concept of frustration-regression. This has significant implications for the focus of talent and retention strategies, and it is proposed that improving the quality of leadership, work environments and development opportunities will decrease the current over-reliance on monetary rewards as a retention tool.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Du Randt, Jean
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Employee selection Manpower planning Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39556 , vital:35290
- Description: The “war on talent” is intensifying and effective talent management strategies are imperative for business success. This study explores the expectations and experiences of talent management strategies amongst employees across South Africa and their impact on retention. The literature review covers the constructs of talent management, working environment, rewards, leadership, race, age and gender as well as retention. A quantitative survey approach with comparative studies was adopted. A snowball convenience sampling method was used with links to an on-line questionnaire e-mailed to potential respondents. A total of 711 useable responses were received. Statistical analysis included factor analysis, Cronbach alpha reliability testing, mean factor scores, paired samplet-tests, Pearson’s correlations, T-tests and ANOVAs. The study found that leadership was the factor rated as most important followed by working environment and development. Respondents reported significant differences between expectations and employer ratings on all factors, with cash rewards being the greatest source of dissatisfaction. Experiences of work environment, leadership and development indicated stronger correlations to retention than cash rewards. Women, millennials and non-whites demonstrated the highest retention risks. A significant negative correlation was found between the respondents’ reported experience of leadership, work environment and development and the importance they attached to cash rewards. The study supports Hertzberg’s classification of cash rewards as a hygiene factor and Alderfer’s ERG theory’s concept of frustration-regression. This has significant implications for the focus of talent and retention strategies, and it is proposed that improving the quality of leadership, work environments and development opportunities will decrease the current over-reliance on monetary rewards as a retention tool.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Experiences of judicial officers’ inclusion of victim impact reports during the criminal justice process
- Authors: Phillips, Adelette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Victims of crimes , Social service -- Research Social service -- Admnistration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45064 , vital:38230
- Description: Judicial officers have a responsibility to bring about a victim-centred approach within the criminal justice system. Victims’ participation is promoted through inclusion of victim impact evidence; however, challenges are experienced in the criminal justice system. Victim impact reports, as an option to provide this evidence, are selectively requested by judicial officers. Underpinned by the General Theory of Victimology, this study explored the experiences of judicial officers’ inclusion of victim impact reports during the criminal justice process. Highlighting the factors that motivate the inclusion of these reports during the criminal justice process. This qualitative study employed an exploratory, descriptive, contextual design. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select magistrates and prosecutors to participate in individual semi-structured interviews. Data collected was analysed using thematic data analysis and various data verification strategies were used to ensure trustworthiness of the findings. Judicial officers had positive and negative experiences of including victim impact reports. Most judicial officers are positively inclined to include victim impact reports as they provide insight into the harm or impact of the crime. This study contributed to a greater understanding of the internal and external factors that motivate judicial officers to include victim impact reports during the criminal justice process. The findings revealed that the lack of specialised victim services and victim service social workers are barriers to judicial officers embracing a victim-centred approach through the inclusion of victim impact reports. Victim services legislation must address the lack of victim services providers and acknowledge the statutory obligation of victim service social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Phillips, Adelette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Victims of crimes , Social service -- Research Social service -- Admnistration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45064 , vital:38230
- Description: Judicial officers have a responsibility to bring about a victim-centred approach within the criminal justice system. Victims’ participation is promoted through inclusion of victim impact evidence; however, challenges are experienced in the criminal justice system. Victim impact reports, as an option to provide this evidence, are selectively requested by judicial officers. Underpinned by the General Theory of Victimology, this study explored the experiences of judicial officers’ inclusion of victim impact reports during the criminal justice process. Highlighting the factors that motivate the inclusion of these reports during the criminal justice process. This qualitative study employed an exploratory, descriptive, contextual design. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select magistrates and prosecutors to participate in individual semi-structured interviews. Data collected was analysed using thematic data analysis and various data verification strategies were used to ensure trustworthiness of the findings. Judicial officers had positive and negative experiences of including victim impact reports. Most judicial officers are positively inclined to include victim impact reports as they provide insight into the harm or impact of the crime. This study contributed to a greater understanding of the internal and external factors that motivate judicial officers to include victim impact reports during the criminal justice process. The findings revealed that the lack of specialised victim services and victim service social workers are barriers to judicial officers embracing a victim-centred approach through the inclusion of victim impact reports. Victim services legislation must address the lack of victim services providers and acknowledge the statutory obligation of victim service social workers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Experiences of psychologists working with female childhood sexual abuse (CSA) survivors
- Ntshangase, Nandisile Elaine
- Authors: Ntshangase, Nandisile Elaine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Counseling of , Child sexual abuse , Sexually abused children , Psychologists , Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42694 , vital:36681
- Description: Clients who experienced childhood sexual abuse may interact with psychologists in compelling ways. By virtue of the symptoms and personality implications, for instance, strong patterns of borderline and histrionic personality functioning, have been linked to the history of sexual abuse. Implicit to this, is that it is likely that the client will challenge the therapist with regards to both the theoretical approach taken, as well as the therapeutic style adopted. In addition, such clients are likely to project their need for a therapeutic interaction that is both genuine, empathic and at the same time, flexible. In light of this, it is not uncommon for healthcare practitioners to consider such clients as “difficult” in some way or the other. This could impact the psychologist as well, increasing the risk of psychologist stress, frustration and burnout. This study explored South African psychologists’ experiences working therapeutically with female clients who experienced sexual abuse during childhood. The focus was on understanding how the psychologists theoretically understood and practically worked with these clients. A qualitative approach was used and interviews with psychologists practising in the Eastern Cape of South Africa were conducted. The transcripts of the semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed. The thematic analysis yielded three themes, namely, 1) challenges experienced by psychologists; 2) preferred approaches to therapy and 3) coping skills utilized. The study applied the ethical principles concerned with trustworthiness, credibility and reliability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ntshangase, Nandisile Elaine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Adult child sexual abuse victims -- Counseling of , Child sexual abuse , Sexually abused children , Psychologists , Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42694 , vital:36681
- Description: Clients who experienced childhood sexual abuse may interact with psychologists in compelling ways. By virtue of the symptoms and personality implications, for instance, strong patterns of borderline and histrionic personality functioning, have been linked to the history of sexual abuse. Implicit to this, is that it is likely that the client will challenge the therapist with regards to both the theoretical approach taken, as well as the therapeutic style adopted. In addition, such clients are likely to project their need for a therapeutic interaction that is both genuine, empathic and at the same time, flexible. In light of this, it is not uncommon for healthcare practitioners to consider such clients as “difficult” in some way or the other. This could impact the psychologist as well, increasing the risk of psychologist stress, frustration and burnout. This study explored South African psychologists’ experiences working therapeutically with female clients who experienced sexual abuse during childhood. The focus was on understanding how the psychologists theoretically understood and practically worked with these clients. A qualitative approach was used and interviews with psychologists practising in the Eastern Cape of South Africa were conducted. The transcripts of the semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed. The thematic analysis yielded three themes, namely, 1) challenges experienced by psychologists; 2) preferred approaches to therapy and 3) coping skills utilized. The study applied the ethical principles concerned with trustworthiness, credibility and reliability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring cultural understandings of traumatic stress among the Amaxhosa traditional healers in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mlonyeni, Makhi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbalists -- Psychological aspects Herbalists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45042 , vital:38228
- Description: Psychology is an essentially Eurocentric discipline. In a world that is becoming progressively aware, tolerant and accepting of differences among people, there is growing interest to challenge and amend psychological constructs that are unfairly generalized universally. Literature abounds with appeals for more research to be conducted on nonwestern cultures so that scholars can be at a better position to ‘decolonise’ the PTSD diagnosis as they will then have an improved understanding of understudied non-western societies. The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is home to the AmaXhosa tribe, the second largest ethnic group in the country. This study seeks to explore indigenous understandings and coping strategies of these people in regards to traumatic exposure. This is done through gaining insights of AmaXhosa traditional healers- Amagqirha (Diviners) and AmaXhwele (Herbalists). A sample of eight participants is sourced from Grahamstown (Makhanda) and the rural areas of Peddie (Ngqushwa). Through the use of two case studies that are presented and open ended follow up questions, the traditional healers relate their perspectives on how they interpret symptoms of psychological trauma and the strategies they employ to facilitate coping/healing of their clients in their context. It was discovered that traditional healers perceived traumatic events as phenomena that befalls only those that are spiritually vulnerable, either due to strained relationships with their ancestors, bewitchment by an enemy or jealous person or simply torment by a wandering wicked spirit. Rituals and practices of how to combat this vulnerability are then outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mlonyeni, Makhi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Herbalists -- Psychological aspects Herbalists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45042 , vital:38228
- Description: Psychology is an essentially Eurocentric discipline. In a world that is becoming progressively aware, tolerant and accepting of differences among people, there is growing interest to challenge and amend psychological constructs that are unfairly generalized universally. Literature abounds with appeals for more research to be conducted on nonwestern cultures so that scholars can be at a better position to ‘decolonise’ the PTSD diagnosis as they will then have an improved understanding of understudied non-western societies. The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is home to the AmaXhosa tribe, the second largest ethnic group in the country. This study seeks to explore indigenous understandings and coping strategies of these people in regards to traumatic exposure. This is done through gaining insights of AmaXhosa traditional healers- Amagqirha (Diviners) and AmaXhwele (Herbalists). A sample of eight participants is sourced from Grahamstown (Makhanda) and the rural areas of Peddie (Ngqushwa). Through the use of two case studies that are presented and open ended follow up questions, the traditional healers relate their perspectives on how they interpret symptoms of psychological trauma and the strategies they employ to facilitate coping/healing of their clients in their context. It was discovered that traditional healers perceived traumatic events as phenomena that befalls only those that are spiritually vulnerable, either due to strained relationships with their ancestors, bewitchment by an enemy or jealous person or simply torment by a wandering wicked spirit. Rituals and practices of how to combat this vulnerability are then outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring cultural understandings of traumatic stress among the amaXhosa traditional healers in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mlonyeni, Makhi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Traditional healers -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44692 , vital:38147
- Description: Psychology is an essentially Eurocentric discipline. In a world that is becoming progressively aware, tolerant and accepting of differences among people, there is growing interest to challenge and amend psychological constructs that are unfairly generalised universally. Literature abounds with appeals for more research to be conducted on non-western cultures so that scholars can be at a better position to ‘decolonise’ the PTSD diagnosis as they will then have an improved understanding of understudied non-western societies. The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is home to the AmaXhosa tribe, the second largest ethnic group in the country. This study seeks to explore indigenous understandings and coping strategies of these people in regards to traumatic exposure. This is done through gaining insights of AmaXhosa traditional healers- Amagqirha (Diviners) and AmaXhwele (Herbalists). A sample of eight participants is sourced from Grahamstown (Makhanda) and the rural areas of Peddie (Ngqushwa). Through the use of two case studies that are presented and open ended follow up questions, the traditional healers relate their perspectives on how they interpret symptoms of psychological trauma and the strategies they employ to facilitate coping/healing of their clients in their context. It was discovered that traditional healers perceived traumatic events as phenomena that befalls only those that are spiritually vulnerable, either due to strained relationships with their ancestors, bewitchment by an enemy or jealous person or simply torment by a wandering wicked spirit. Rituals and practices of how to combat this vulnerability are then outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mlonyeni, Makhi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Traditional healers -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44692 , vital:38147
- Description: Psychology is an essentially Eurocentric discipline. In a world that is becoming progressively aware, tolerant and accepting of differences among people, there is growing interest to challenge and amend psychological constructs that are unfairly generalised universally. Literature abounds with appeals for more research to be conducted on non-western cultures so that scholars can be at a better position to ‘decolonise’ the PTSD diagnosis as they will then have an improved understanding of understudied non-western societies. The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is home to the AmaXhosa tribe, the second largest ethnic group in the country. This study seeks to explore indigenous understandings and coping strategies of these people in regards to traumatic exposure. This is done through gaining insights of AmaXhosa traditional healers- Amagqirha (Diviners) and AmaXhwele (Herbalists). A sample of eight participants is sourced from Grahamstown (Makhanda) and the rural areas of Peddie (Ngqushwa). Through the use of two case studies that are presented and open ended follow up questions, the traditional healers relate their perspectives on how they interpret symptoms of psychological trauma and the strategies they employ to facilitate coping/healing of their clients in their context. It was discovered that traditional healers perceived traumatic events as phenomena that befalls only those that are spiritually vulnerable, either due to strained relationships with their ancestors, bewitchment by an enemy or jealous person or simply torment by a wandering wicked spirit. Rituals and practices of how to combat this vulnerability are then outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring Lay people’s understanding of substance abuse
- Authors: Ranase, Asanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Substance abuse -- South Africa , Substance abuse -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Psychology -- Qualitative research -- South Africa , Social constructionism -- South Africa , Lay analysis (Psychoanalysis) -- South Africa , Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders , Dependency (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114881 , vital:34046
- Description: South Africa has been identified as one of the drug centres of the world (UNODC, 2016). Substance abuse has been implicated in violent crimes and accidental deaths, as well as in the increasing the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases (Harker Burnhams & Parry, 2015; Pasche & Myers, 2012; van Heerden et al., 2009). Even though substance abuse is evidently a challenge facing South Africa, there is currently a paucity of literature exploring how substance abuse is understood, specifically among lay people. Research indicates that there is a clear need for qualitative inquiry on lay people’s understanding of substance abuse (Keatley et al, 2017; Lang & Rosenberg, 2017; Sorsdahl et al., 2012 ). Available South African research in this area centres on trends, attitudes and perceptions of substance abuse (Sorsdahl, Stein, & Myers, 2012). Previous studies indicate that professionals often define substance abuse according to observable indicators, as well as the type of substance used (APA, 2013). Research shows that lay people tend to lean towards moral models of understanding, in contrast to professionals who align with the medical models. Located within social constructionism, this study provides insight into how the understanding of substance abuse is shaped by society (Gergen & Gergen, 1996). This study aims to explore how lay people understand substance abuse and use, and whether this understanding confirms or contradicts that of professionals/DSM. The study made use of an exploratory research design. The sampling procedures used was a combination of purposive and snowball sampling. A total of 50 participants were recruited and twelve focus groups were conducted. The information was analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes emerged: severity of substance abuse; use, abuse and dependence; functionality; loss of control; gateway substance use and experimenting; and mental health literacy. The findings of this study indicate that lay peoples’ understanding of substance abuse centres on the impact that substance use and abuse have on peoples’ lives. Further suggested by the findings is that, lay people often associate poor interpersonal relationships, functionality or lack thereof and loss of control with substance abuse problems. This view is consistent with that of professionals and the DSM5 (APA, 2013). The findings of this research indicate that there are similarities in the views of lay people and those of professionals regarding substance abuse problems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ranase, Asanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Substance abuse -- South Africa , Substance abuse -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Psychology -- Qualitative research -- South Africa , Social constructionism -- South Africa , Lay analysis (Psychoanalysis) -- South Africa , Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders , Dependency (Psychology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114881 , vital:34046
- Description: South Africa has been identified as one of the drug centres of the world (UNODC, 2016). Substance abuse has been implicated in violent crimes and accidental deaths, as well as in the increasing the risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases (Harker Burnhams & Parry, 2015; Pasche & Myers, 2012; van Heerden et al., 2009). Even though substance abuse is evidently a challenge facing South Africa, there is currently a paucity of literature exploring how substance abuse is understood, specifically among lay people. Research indicates that there is a clear need for qualitative inquiry on lay people’s understanding of substance abuse (Keatley et al, 2017; Lang & Rosenberg, 2017; Sorsdahl et al., 2012 ). Available South African research in this area centres on trends, attitudes and perceptions of substance abuse (Sorsdahl, Stein, & Myers, 2012). Previous studies indicate that professionals often define substance abuse according to observable indicators, as well as the type of substance used (APA, 2013). Research shows that lay people tend to lean towards moral models of understanding, in contrast to professionals who align with the medical models. Located within social constructionism, this study provides insight into how the understanding of substance abuse is shaped by society (Gergen & Gergen, 1996). This study aims to explore how lay people understand substance abuse and use, and whether this understanding confirms or contradicts that of professionals/DSM. The study made use of an exploratory research design. The sampling procedures used was a combination of purposive and snowball sampling. A total of 50 participants were recruited and twelve focus groups were conducted. The information was analysed using thematic analysis. Six themes emerged: severity of substance abuse; use, abuse and dependence; functionality; loss of control; gateway substance use and experimenting; and mental health literacy. The findings of this study indicate that lay peoples’ understanding of substance abuse centres on the impact that substance use and abuse have on peoples’ lives. Further suggested by the findings is that, lay people often associate poor interpersonal relationships, functionality or lack thereof and loss of control with substance abuse problems. This view is consistent with that of professionals and the DSM5 (APA, 2013). The findings of this research indicate that there are similarities in the views of lay people and those of professionals regarding substance abuse problems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring multiple dimensions of identiy development in black South African adolescents
- Authors: Buso, Masimbulele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) , Adolescent psychology -- South Africa , Identity (Psychology) in adolescence -- South Africa , Teenagers, Black -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96702 , vital:31310
- Description: South Africa, just like most African countries, is a country rich in social, political and economic history due to colonisation, specifically the apartheid system. The current socio-political and economic climate of the country is said to influence the process of identity development and formation during adolescence. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to explore the various identities that black adolescents are exploring given the context of the country. Additionally, the aim of this research was to explore the methods in which adolescents utilise to develop their identity and the challenges encountered during this process. The study made use of three data collection methods; a Short Reflective exercise, a Nominal Group Technique and Focus Groups. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to generate main themes and sub themes. The main themes discussed in this study revealed that adolescents experiences multiple aspects of their identity, which exist in a complex interwoven system influenced by both external and internal factors. The main challenge was the difficulty in integrating the dominant westernised/individualistic ideology with the collectivistic ideology that adolescents are raised according to. Overall, the study indicated that the majority of the participants had a positive self-concept and a positive outlook with regards to their future. Recommendations emphasise the need for further research that would be based on the South African context to further explore black identity and to gain contextual information that can be used to combat some of the social issues that the South African youth is challenged with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Buso, Masimbulele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) , Adolescent psychology -- South Africa , Identity (Psychology) in adolescence -- South Africa , Teenagers, Black -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96702 , vital:31310
- Description: South Africa, just like most African countries, is a country rich in social, political and economic history due to colonisation, specifically the apartheid system. The current socio-political and economic climate of the country is said to influence the process of identity development and formation during adolescence. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to explore the various identities that black adolescents are exploring given the context of the country. Additionally, the aim of this research was to explore the methods in which adolescents utilise to develop their identity and the challenges encountered during this process. The study made use of three data collection methods; a Short Reflective exercise, a Nominal Group Technique and Focus Groups. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to generate main themes and sub themes. The main themes discussed in this study revealed that adolescents experiences multiple aspects of their identity, which exist in a complex interwoven system influenced by both external and internal factors. The main challenge was the difficulty in integrating the dominant westernised/individualistic ideology with the collectivistic ideology that adolescents are raised according to. Overall, the study indicated that the majority of the participants had a positive self-concept and a positive outlook with regards to their future. Recommendations emphasise the need for further research that would be based on the South African context to further explore black identity and to gain contextual information that can be used to combat some of the social issues that the South African youth is challenged with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring mythical creatures and their influence on mental health amongst black South Africans residing in rural areas of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Sibam, Zimkhitha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Supernatural beliefs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44717 , vital:38150
- Description: In various cultures, supernatural beliefs abound and influence individuals through mythical ideas and figures. In South Africa and other parts of the world, mythical creatures are held accountable for terrorising individuals and instilling fear or, held accountable for a host of psychosocial experiences. For example, the tokoloshe is a mythical creature whose very name raises fear and suspicion amongst many Black South Africans. Using community narratives, this study explored the potential influence of the belief in mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on mental health and well - being in rural communities in South Africa (SA). This understanding is considered important given the existing gap in the literature focussing on supernatural beliefs and their influence on mental health which resonates with a current movement in SA focusing on the transformation of psychology considering the need to transform and contextualise the relevance of psychology to population groups in SA, understanding supernatural cultural beliefs becomes important. This study employed a qualitative design and the participants were purposively sampled from rural communities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province. Four focus group discussions consisting of five to six participants in each were conducted, with the central aim of exploring the potential mental health implications of the belief in mythical creatures. The following ethical considerations were adhered to whilst conducting the study; informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity ad confidentiality and doing no harm to participants. In this study thematic content analysis was used following Braun and Clarkes (2013) analytical steps. Participants suggested that a strong cultural belief in the existence and reality of the tokoloshe exists and described the tokoloshe as a short and hairy male who sexually assaults women mostly in their sleep and causes people to disappear, only to be found dead. Amongst other things, the tokoloshe is believed to be responsible for psychological, social and physical experiences like, misfortune, possession, numbness and fatigue. The tokoloshe is suggested by the participants as causing Running Head: EXPLORATION OF MYTHICAL CREATURES AND MENTAL HEALTH 9 fear influencing an individual’s psychosocial and emotional well - being. Traditional healers and prophets were further suggested as the most likely to be consulted if the above symptoms were experienced, rather than a psychologist. The findings of the study suggests that supernatural beliefs currently influence the understanding and treatment of a variety of experiences and that unless psychological science begins to incorporate such beliefs into its therapeutic modalities, as a discipline it may not adequately provide services to a diverse population group. Future research should consider exploring role of mythical creatures specifically the tokoloshe on mental illness, with the aim of identifying ways of incorporating such beliefs into psychological interventions. Future studies could consider exploring community narratives of mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on different cultures within South Africa, to compare the differences and similarities. The study also identified several interesting themes, including the potential violence against women, from the tokoloshe. While these narratives were a reflection of personal experience and belief, the implication this poses to the psychology of gender and violence must be explored further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sibam, Zimkhitha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Supernatural beliefs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44717 , vital:38150
- Description: In various cultures, supernatural beliefs abound and influence individuals through mythical ideas and figures. In South Africa and other parts of the world, mythical creatures are held accountable for terrorising individuals and instilling fear or, held accountable for a host of psychosocial experiences. For example, the tokoloshe is a mythical creature whose very name raises fear and suspicion amongst many Black South Africans. Using community narratives, this study explored the potential influence of the belief in mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on mental health and well - being in rural communities in South Africa (SA). This understanding is considered important given the existing gap in the literature focussing on supernatural beliefs and their influence on mental health which resonates with a current movement in SA focusing on the transformation of psychology considering the need to transform and contextualise the relevance of psychology to population groups in SA, understanding supernatural cultural beliefs becomes important. This study employed a qualitative design and the participants were purposively sampled from rural communities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province. Four focus group discussions consisting of five to six participants in each were conducted, with the central aim of exploring the potential mental health implications of the belief in mythical creatures. The following ethical considerations were adhered to whilst conducting the study; informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity ad confidentiality and doing no harm to participants. In this study thematic content analysis was used following Braun and Clarkes (2013) analytical steps. Participants suggested that a strong cultural belief in the existence and reality of the tokoloshe exists and described the tokoloshe as a short and hairy male who sexually assaults women mostly in their sleep and causes people to disappear, only to be found dead. Amongst other things, the tokoloshe is believed to be responsible for psychological, social and physical experiences like, misfortune, possession, numbness and fatigue. The tokoloshe is suggested by the participants as causing Running Head: EXPLORATION OF MYTHICAL CREATURES AND MENTAL HEALTH 9 fear influencing an individual’s psychosocial and emotional well - being. Traditional healers and prophets were further suggested as the most likely to be consulted if the above symptoms were experienced, rather than a psychologist. The findings of the study suggests that supernatural beliefs currently influence the understanding and treatment of a variety of experiences and that unless psychological science begins to incorporate such beliefs into its therapeutic modalities, as a discipline it may not adequately provide services to a diverse population group. Future research should consider exploring role of mythical creatures specifically the tokoloshe on mental illness, with the aim of identifying ways of incorporating such beliefs into psychological interventions. Future studies could consider exploring community narratives of mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on different cultures within South Africa, to compare the differences and similarities. The study also identified several interesting themes, including the potential violence against women, from the tokoloshe. While these narratives were a reflection of personal experience and belief, the implication this poses to the psychology of gender and violence must be explored further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring Mythical creatures and their influence on mental health amongst black South Africans residing in rural areas of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Sibam, Zimkhitha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mythology Cultural psychiatry Psychiatry, Transcultural
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45075 , vital:38231
- Description: In various cultures, supernatural beliefs abound and influence individuals through mythical ideas and figures. In South Africa and other parts of the world, mythical creatures are held accountable for terrorising individuals and instilling fear or, held accountable for a host of psychosocial experiences. For example, the tokoloshe is a mythical creature whose very name raises fear and suspicion amongst many Black South Africans. Using community narratives, this study explored the potential influence of the belief in mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on mental health and well-being in rural communities in South Africa (SA). This understanding is considered important given the existing gap in the literature focussing on supernatural beliefs and their influence on mental health which resonates with a current movement in SA focusing on the transformation of psychology. Considering the need to transform and contextualise the relevance of psychology to population groups in SA, understanding supernatural cultural beliefs becomes important. This study employed a qualitative design and the participants were purposively sampled from rural communities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province. Four focus group discussions consisting of five to six participants in each were conducted, with the central aim of exploring the potential mental health implications of the belief in mythical creatures. The following ethical considerations were adhered to whilst conducting the study; informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity ad confidentiality and doing no harm to participants. In this study thematic content analysis was used following Braun and Clarkes (2013) analytical steps. Participants suggested that a strong cultural belief in the existence and reality of the tokoloshe exists and described the tokoloshe as a short and hairy male who sexually assaults women mostly in their sleep and causes people to disappear, only to be found dead. Amongst other things, the tokoloshe is believed to be responsible for psychological, social and physical experiences like, misfortune, possession, numbness and fatigue. The tokoloshe is suggested by the participants as causing fear influencing an individual’s psychosocial and emotional well-being. Traditional healers and prophets were further suggested as the most likely to be consulted if the above symptoms were experienced, rather than a psychologist. The findings of the study suggests that supernatural beliefs currently influence the understanding and treatment of a variety of experiences and that unless psychological science begins to incorporate such beliefs into its therapeutic modalities, as a discipline it may not adequately provide services to a diverse population group. Future research should consider exploring role of mythical creatures specifically the tokoloshe on mental illness, with the aim of identifying ways of incorporating such beliefs into psychological interventions. Future studies could consider exploring community narratives of mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on different cultures within South Africa, to compare the differences and similarities. The study also identified several interesting themes, including the potential violence against women, from the tokoloshe. While these narratives were a reflection of personal experience and belief, the implication this poses to the psychology of gender and violence must be explored further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sibam, Zimkhitha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mythology Cultural psychiatry Psychiatry, Transcultural
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45075 , vital:38231
- Description: In various cultures, supernatural beliefs abound and influence individuals through mythical ideas and figures. In South Africa and other parts of the world, mythical creatures are held accountable for terrorising individuals and instilling fear or, held accountable for a host of psychosocial experiences. For example, the tokoloshe is a mythical creature whose very name raises fear and suspicion amongst many Black South Africans. Using community narratives, this study explored the potential influence of the belief in mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on mental health and well-being in rural communities in South Africa (SA). This understanding is considered important given the existing gap in the literature focussing on supernatural beliefs and their influence on mental health which resonates with a current movement in SA focusing on the transformation of psychology. Considering the need to transform and contextualise the relevance of psychology to population groups in SA, understanding supernatural cultural beliefs becomes important. This study employed a qualitative design and the participants were purposively sampled from rural communities in the Eastern Cape (EC) Province. Four focus group discussions consisting of five to six participants in each were conducted, with the central aim of exploring the potential mental health implications of the belief in mythical creatures. The following ethical considerations were adhered to whilst conducting the study; informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity ad confidentiality and doing no harm to participants. In this study thematic content analysis was used following Braun and Clarkes (2013) analytical steps. Participants suggested that a strong cultural belief in the existence and reality of the tokoloshe exists and described the tokoloshe as a short and hairy male who sexually assaults women mostly in their sleep and causes people to disappear, only to be found dead. Amongst other things, the tokoloshe is believed to be responsible for psychological, social and physical experiences like, misfortune, possession, numbness and fatigue. The tokoloshe is suggested by the participants as causing fear influencing an individual’s psychosocial and emotional well-being. Traditional healers and prophets were further suggested as the most likely to be consulted if the above symptoms were experienced, rather than a psychologist. The findings of the study suggests that supernatural beliefs currently influence the understanding and treatment of a variety of experiences and that unless psychological science begins to incorporate such beliefs into its therapeutic modalities, as a discipline it may not adequately provide services to a diverse population group. Future research should consider exploring role of mythical creatures specifically the tokoloshe on mental illness, with the aim of identifying ways of incorporating such beliefs into psychological interventions. Future studies could consider exploring community narratives of mythical creatures, specifically the tokoloshe on different cultures within South Africa, to compare the differences and similarities. The study also identified several interesting themes, including the potential violence against women, from the tokoloshe. While these narratives were a reflection of personal experience and belief, the implication this poses to the psychology of gender and violence must be explored further.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring the management-union relationship at a large automotive manufacturer
- Authors: Le Roux, Loreen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40382 , vital:36154
- Description: The South African labour environment makes a significant contribution to the country’s ability to function within a social market economy. Labour instability deters foreign investment and has had a negative impact on productivity levels. It would, therefore, be of value to the field of labour relations to consider how the management-union relationship at an organisational level can be improved to encourage a stable, effective and collective relationship. A qualitative approach was adopted to explore and describe the nature of the management-union relationship, including both the confrontational and cooperative elements of interaction, at a large automotive MANUFACTURER that operates within a multinational group. The study explored the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework, which was once or is regarded as the benchmark of Industrial Relations structures within the South African context. This was due to its implementation of an adapted Co-determination Model of employee participation from as early as 1994; thus, providing an opportunity to study a long-established and mature management-union relationship. The relationship was regarded as an aspect of the Industrial Relations climate and focused on interaction within the MANUFACTURER’s Industrial Relations Framework (three committees being the Joint Strategic Workshop, Plant Committee and Negotiating Committee). The aim of the study is to describe the specific factors identified by the parties as having influenced their relationship. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework was considered in terms of its contribution towards achieving the parties’ goals and lastly, suggestions for improvement were shared to improve the effectiveness of the relationship. The literature reviewed considered the nature of the collective relationship. Firstly, the characteristics of a collective relationship were described to appreciate the complexity and multifaceted, simultaneous influences of the external and internal elements, which impact on the relationship. Secondly, frames of reference were identified that contextualised the chosen industrial relations ideology adopted. Thirdly, typical industrial relations relationship patterns were described which explained the selected approach adopted in the management-union interaction. Fourthly, the South African legislative context was highlighted to appreciate the South African Government’s support for the primacy of the collective relationship. Lastly, a few academic models that included seminal work, were considered to recognise key factors influencing the collective relationship. The most common factors identified were attitudinal dimensions (attitudes, behaviours, and perceptions), goals, sharing common objectives, trust, recognition of legitimacy, access to information, voice, equity (fairness), and communication. The sample consisted of Human Resource Management and NUMSA representatives who participated in the Industrial Relations Framework. Semi-structured, individual interviews were used as a research instrument for data gathering. On conclusion of this phase, a thematic analysis was conducted and themes were identified. This assisted in the description of key factors that had an impact on this particular collective relationship within a pluralistic industrial relations context. The findings revealed that the nature of the relationship differed at the various committees. It was influenced by the functioning of the committee, the effectiveness in achieving the parties’ goals, the level of management represented and the nature of the processes involved in the interaction (information-sharing, consultation and negotiation). Positive changes are underway whereby union capacity building is being addressed to aid and elevate the level of engagement. Operational improvements to benefit the functioning of the committees and afford the union increased input. A joint organisational vision is also being drafted as the first step towards a closer, future partnership as the MANUFACTURER faces competitive challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Le Roux, Loreen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40382 , vital:36154
- Description: The South African labour environment makes a significant contribution to the country’s ability to function within a social market economy. Labour instability deters foreign investment and has had a negative impact on productivity levels. It would, therefore, be of value to the field of labour relations to consider how the management-union relationship at an organisational level can be improved to encourage a stable, effective and collective relationship. A qualitative approach was adopted to explore and describe the nature of the management-union relationship, including both the confrontational and cooperative elements of interaction, at a large automotive MANUFACTURER that operates within a multinational group. The study explored the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework, which was once or is regarded as the benchmark of Industrial Relations structures within the South African context. This was due to its implementation of an adapted Co-determination Model of employee participation from as early as 1994; thus, providing an opportunity to study a long-established and mature management-union relationship. The relationship was regarded as an aspect of the Industrial Relations climate and focused on interaction within the MANUFACTURER’s Industrial Relations Framework (three committees being the Joint Strategic Workshop, Plant Committee and Negotiating Committee). The aim of the study is to describe the specific factors identified by the parties as having influenced their relationship. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework was considered in terms of its contribution towards achieving the parties’ goals and lastly, suggestions for improvement were shared to improve the effectiveness of the relationship. The literature reviewed considered the nature of the collective relationship. Firstly, the characteristics of a collective relationship were described to appreciate the complexity and multifaceted, simultaneous influences of the external and internal elements, which impact on the relationship. Secondly, frames of reference were identified that contextualised the chosen industrial relations ideology adopted. Thirdly, typical industrial relations relationship patterns were described which explained the selected approach adopted in the management-union interaction. Fourthly, the South African legislative context was highlighted to appreciate the South African Government’s support for the primacy of the collective relationship. Lastly, a few academic models that included seminal work, were considered to recognise key factors influencing the collective relationship. The most common factors identified were attitudinal dimensions (attitudes, behaviours, and perceptions), goals, sharing common objectives, trust, recognition of legitimacy, access to information, voice, equity (fairness), and communication. The sample consisted of Human Resource Management and NUMSA representatives who participated in the Industrial Relations Framework. Semi-structured, individual interviews were used as a research instrument for data gathering. On conclusion of this phase, a thematic analysis was conducted and themes were identified. This assisted in the description of key factors that had an impact on this particular collective relationship within a pluralistic industrial relations context. The findings revealed that the nature of the relationship differed at the various committees. It was influenced by the functioning of the committee, the effectiveness in achieving the parties’ goals, the level of management represented and the nature of the processes involved in the interaction (information-sharing, consultation and negotiation). Positive changes are underway whereby union capacity building is being addressed to aid and elevate the level of engagement. Operational improvements to benefit the functioning of the committees and afford the union increased input. A joint organisational vision is also being drafted as the first step towards a closer, future partnership as the MANUFACTURER faces competitive challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring the meaning of informal social alcohol consumption rituals in performing masculinity amongst male university students
- Authors: Makgale, Obakeng
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: College students -- Alcohol use , Drinking of alcoholic beverages -- South Africa , College students -- Conduct of life -- South Africa , Male college students -- Conduct of life -- South Africa , Masculinity
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96680 , vital:31308
- Description: Alcohol use amongst university students has received a significant amount of attention in different countries across the world (Dempster, 2011; Kobin, 2013; Maphisa & Young, 2018). The purpose of this study is to explore the meaning of informal social alcohol drinking rituals in performing masculinity amongst male university students. This study used a Social Constructionist approach to gender as theoretical framework. Thus, gender is understood as constructed through social interactions, where a person performs their masculinity before an approving audience (Butler, 2009; Sallee, 2011). This research employed a qualitative research approach. Four participants were selected for in-depth interviews which were analysed using Thematic Network Analysis (Attride-Sterling, 2001). Two global themes emerged from the data set. The first global theme focused on “Men and Alcohol” and concerns the facilitative role that alcohol use and tolerance plays in masculine performance, exploring how masculinities compete for the hegemonic position through excessive alcohol use. The second global theme concerns the “Wolf Pack” and focuses on how peer groups engage in informal social drinking rituals and how these rituals function within the group dynamic. Informal social drinking rituals appear to play a significant role in successful display of hegemonic forms of masculinity in this context, and also play a significant role in expanding one’s social network. However, the consequences associated with this social practice places one in the position of having to maintain participation in heavy drinking in order to feel secure, leaving one vulnerable to negative consequences associated with excessive drinking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Makgale, Obakeng
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: College students -- Alcohol use , Drinking of alcoholic beverages -- South Africa , College students -- Conduct of life -- South Africa , Male college students -- Conduct of life -- South Africa , Masculinity
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96680 , vital:31308
- Description: Alcohol use amongst university students has received a significant amount of attention in different countries across the world (Dempster, 2011; Kobin, 2013; Maphisa & Young, 2018). The purpose of this study is to explore the meaning of informal social alcohol drinking rituals in performing masculinity amongst male university students. This study used a Social Constructionist approach to gender as theoretical framework. Thus, gender is understood as constructed through social interactions, where a person performs their masculinity before an approving audience (Butler, 2009; Sallee, 2011). This research employed a qualitative research approach. Four participants were selected for in-depth interviews which were analysed using Thematic Network Analysis (Attride-Sterling, 2001). Two global themes emerged from the data set. The first global theme focused on “Men and Alcohol” and concerns the facilitative role that alcohol use and tolerance plays in masculine performance, exploring how masculinities compete for the hegemonic position through excessive alcohol use. The second global theme concerns the “Wolf Pack” and focuses on how peer groups engage in informal social drinking rituals and how these rituals function within the group dynamic. Informal social drinking rituals appear to play a significant role in successful display of hegemonic forms of masculinity in this context, and also play a significant role in expanding one’s social network. However, the consequences associated with this social practice places one in the position of having to maintain participation in heavy drinking in order to feel secure, leaving one vulnerable to negative consequences associated with excessive drinking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019