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Nurses working in mental health institutions experience enormous challenges sometimes without formal support structures and programmes to ease their caring duties. This study sought to develop a support programme for nurses caring for patients with chronic mental illness in three mental health institutions in Limpopo Province. A qualitative descriptive phenomenological design was used. A total of thirty participants (male = 7; females = 23) between 27 and 64 years were selected using a purposive homogeneous sampling method. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Hycner‘s adapted phenomenological explication method was used to analyse the data. Six primary themes and twenty-four sub-themes emerged during data explication. The six major themes include: the nature of chronic mental illness, professional nurses’ phenomenological experiences, challenges experienced by professional nurses (PNs), coping mechanisms used by PNs, support structures and programmes for PNs, and suggested support programmes for PNs. The first theme comprises common diagnoses as a sub-theme. Receiving and giving reports, personal hygiene, morning devotions, health education, giving patients medication, physical assessment, and administrative tasks emerged as sub-themes of the second theme. The third theme includes these sub-themes: shortage of staff, lack of social support, safety and security problems, lack of incentives, shortage of resources, and shortage of treatment. Prayer, belief in God, teamwork, self-counselling, and absenteeism are coping mechanisms used by nurses in the fourth theme. The fifth theme focuses on support structures and programmes. According to these PNs, there are no formal support structures or programmes available for nurses, except union forums, monthly meetings, and nurses’ day. Family support, support by colleagues and supervisors, psychological support, and general social support are sub-themes that emerged in the sixth theme. The study findi

With the realisation that both the traditional and western health care systems are consulted in South Africa, the Traditional Health Practitioners Act, No 22 of 2007 was promulgated. In addition to the Act, there was a growing body of literature proposing the integration of the two health systems to improve the overall South African health system. This study explored the possibility for such collaboration by investigating case formulation by western-trained clinical psychologists and traditional health practitioners regarding selected cases of mental disorders. A qualitative research design, specifically a case study method was used in the present study. Six clinical psychologists and six traditional health practitioners were selected through purposive sampling and were requested to participate in the study. The researcher further sampled two vignettes of Major Depressive Disorder and Schizophrenia for data collection purposes. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and vignettes and analysed through Braun and Clarke‟s thematic content analysis steps. Six main themes that related to case formulations by clinical psychologists emerged. These themes were: a). Collateral information as a major determinant in the assessment and treatment of mental illness; b). Classifications of mental illness; c). The symptomatology of mental illness; d). Causes of mental illness; e). The multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of mental illness; and f). Views regarding the collaboration of Clinicians and Traditional Health Practitioners. On the other hand, eight themes that related to the case formulations by traditional health practitioners were identified. These themes were: a) Divination as the main process of enquiry, b) Descriptive names of mental illnesses, c) Conceptualisations of stress related and depressive disorders by Traditional Health Practitioners, d) Views on causes of mental illness, e) The effectiveness of the Western approach in the treatment of s

Dreams have always been intriguing phenomena confronting humankind over many years. They have been perceived differently across time and space, with different meanings attached to their manifestation. The general understanding and perception about dreams was that they emanate from some supernatural powers. Dreams have been some of the subjects of inquiry within the field of psychology. In this context, dreams are commonly perceived to originate from ‘within – intra’’ the dreamer. This study sought to explore the role that dreams play in the work of Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) when diagnosing and managing mental illness. The study espoused a qualitative research approach and phenomenology design. Twenty-six THPs were selected through snowball and purposive sampling methods from five villages in Blouberg Municipality (Limpopo Province). Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews and analysed through interpretive phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The following themes were extracted from the findings of the study: the THPs’ perception of dreams; the essence of dream for THPs; perceived sources of dreams; methods used to confirm the contents of dreams; and methods used to interpret symbolic dreams. Based on the above phenomenological accounts by the participants, an explanatory model on the use of dreams by THPs in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses was developed. The explanatory model suggests that dreams are divided into four categories, namely: dreams as form of vision; dreams as a form of enlightenment; dreams as a form of awareness raising; and, dreams as a form of spiritual communication. The study made significant contribution through the development of an explanatory model to understand the role of dreams in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness by Traditional Health Practitioners. The model presented a comprehensive process of dreams as a diagnostic and treatment tool in mental health care practice in the Africa

Climate change poses a major threat to both the well-being of people and the environment. Subsistence farmers are particularly affected because they rely on local supply systems that are sensitive to climate variation. The aim of the study was to explore psychological resilience factors associated with climate change adaptation by subsistence farmers in a rural farming community in Maruleng Municipality in Limpopo Province (South Africa). The objectives of the study were to: investigate subsistence farmers' notions of climate change and adaptation; determine the psychological resilience factors influencing the farmers’ adaptation the climate change; determine strategies that the farmers use to cope with climate change; and, based on the farmers’ notions of climate change and adaptation, and the associated resilience factors, develop a psychological explanatory model on climate change adaptation by subsistence farmers. Data were collected through direct interactions with participants using a grounded theory research design. An open-ended interview guide was used to collect data with a sample of 15 participants selected through theoretical sampling within the Maruleng Municipality. The research findings indicate that farmers have limited conceptual knowledge relating to climate change and its causes. The results further indicated that participants have become resilient to climate change through mitigation strategies including mulching, adaptive irrigation techniques and being innovative. From a psychological perspective, the subsistence farmers’ resilience factors that emerged included passion for farming, hope, enthusiasm, courage, acceptance or tolerance, livelihood and a coherent belief system. Based on the findings of the study, a psychological explanatory model in climate change adaptation by subsistence farmers was developed. The explanatory model suggests that resilience factors are influenced by notions and adaptations of climate change. The study is concluded

The integration of mental health care (MHC) into primary health care (PHC) has been identified as a practical intervention to: increase accessibility to mental health care; reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with mental illnesses; improve the management of chronic mental illness; and, to reduce the burden of comorbidity of mental illnesses with other chronic illnesses. In the South African context, integrating MHC into PHC also seeks to respond to numerous legislative reforms, with the aim of providing comprehensive health care, particularly to previously disadvantaged populations. The aim of the present study was to explore the perceptions of facility managers in the Tshwane District (Gauteng Province) towards the integration of mental health into PHC. Fifteen participants from the Tshwane district facilities participated in the study. The participants were selected through a non-probability purposive sampling method. Data was collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire, and analysed using the thematic coding approach. Significant findings suggested that the major hindrances to the realisation of the policy objectives may be due to: the lack of rehabilitation and psychotherapeutic services; insufficient skill and knowledge of mental health on the part of staff; insufficient or unsuitable practice space in the facilities; and, poor cooperation between South African Police Services, Emergency Medical Services and Primary Health Care. Inter-facility communication, district implementation support and policy knowledge has notably increased over the years and were deemed to be amongst the biggest enablers.

Though recent South African legislation and policy documents have called for closer collaboration between Western-trained and traditional health practitioners, there is little evidence to show that there is a formal collaboration between the two categories of health care providers. Located within the interpretivist paradigm, and using an exploratory descriptive design, the researcher sought to explore the perceptions of Western-trained health practitioners (WTHPs) in Sekhukhune District (Limpopo Province) towards collaboration between themselves and traditional health practitioners (THPs) in treating mental illness. Seventeen WTHPs (males = 07; females = 10) from three hospitals in Sekhukhune District were selected through purposive sampling and requested to take part in the study. The sample comprised of five clinical psychologists, five medical officers working in psychiatric units, and seven psychiatric nurses. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed through thematic analysis. Specifically, Renata Tesch’s eight steps were used to analyse the data. The following psychological themes emerged from the study: (a) shared goals on collaboration; (b) a good effect on collaboration is anticipated; (c) managing interdependence between traditional and Western-trained practitioners; (d) proposed ideal structures of governance to govern the collaboration; (e) recommended legislations and policies on collaboration; (f) suggested factors that may foster collaboration; (g) proposed factors that hinder collaboration; and, (h) referral systems that exist in the health care. The findings suggest that some WTHPs are willing to collaborate with THPs, especially if proper guidelines for collaboration could be provided by the government. Some recommendations on an ideal structure of governance and legislation on collaboration were made by the WTHPs. The WTHPs highlighted factors that may hinder or facilitate closer collaboration between themselves and THPs in

Though it is difficult to determine the prevalence of intimate partner murder-suicide (IPMS), it does appear that this phenomenon is reported in different parts of the world. The psychological consequences of this phenomenon to the surviving family members have also been widely reported. The aim of the study was to conduct a psychological autopsy (PA) on male perpetrators and female victims of IPMS in a rural community in Limpopo Province. The research objectives were; 1) To understand the psychological intent, motives and behaviour of male perpetrators and female victims in IPMS; 2) to identify role played by male perpetrators and female victims in effecting their death; 3) To investigate multiple trajectories (that is, psychological, social, environmental and cultural/historical context) contributed to IPMS; 4) To identify other factors or events that may have triggered fatal behaviour of both male perpetrators and female victims of IPMS; 5) To understand circumstances around IPMS; 6) To develop guidelines to assist in responding to IPMS. The study was qualitative in nature. In particular, the case study design was used. Interpretative phenomenology approach was adopted. The study was informed by the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Purposive sampling used to select cases of intimate partner murder-suicide. Snowball sampling used to select participants and archival sampling was used to select archived record. Thematic Content Analysis (that is, inductive analysis) was used to identify patterns of meaning across the datasets in order to provide answers to the research objective. The research revealed five major themes. These themes are psychological profile of perpetrators, psychological profile of victims, multiple trajectories towards IPMS, possible triggers in IPMS and circumstance around IPMS. Research findings suggest that although IPMS came as a total surprise there were psychological intent, motive, behaviour on the part of male perpetrators and female victims., National Institute for the Humanities and Social Science (NIHSS), and South African Humanities Deans Association (SAHUDA)

Persons living with intellectual disabilities (ID) at times display behaviours that are a challenge for healthcare professionals, parents and teachers. These challenging behaviours are often presented in health-care, educational, or social care services by individuals with intellectual disabilities. However, what could be explained as challenging may be understood differently through cultures, beliefs or surroundings. The aim of the study was to conceptualise and develop an explanatory model for challenging behaviour in persons with intellectual disabilities. The study comprised twenty (23) participants who were parents and teachers of persons with intellectual disability. The target population of the study live in Ga-Dikgale and Ga-Molepo villages that are located in the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. These villages were chosen because they have special schools for children with ID. A semi-structured, in-depth, one-on-one interview was used to collect data. The data was analysed using thematic content analysis (TCA). Three superordinate themes emerged that covered the understanding of challenging behaviour from the participants. These themes were: (a) knowledge about challenging behaviour; (b) beliefs about causal explanations of challenging behaviour; and, (c) coping with challenging behaviour. The results revealed that participants held varied beliefs regarding causal explanations of challenging behaviour. Cultural background of the participant seemed to play a critical role in shaping these beliefs. Additionally, three modes of coping were used by the participants in the study to cope with challenging behaviour. These are: cultural/traditional coping; religious coping; and, family and professional support methods. A Bio-Psycho-Socio-Cultural Model (BPS-C) was subsequently developed to explain challenging behaviour of persons with intellectual disability. This model integrates components of the Bio-Psycho-Social model (biological characteristics, behaviour, NIHSS and SAHUDA

Diabetes has been noted globally and nationally as one of the leading causes of mortality. Studies have also shown that this morbid condition has a negative impact on the psychological well-being of those affected. The aim of this study was to survey the psychological well-being and quality of life of diabetic patients in Ga-Dikgale community, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to establish the psychological well-being and quality of life of diabetic patients at clinics in Ga-Dikgale according to gender and age. Using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the Quality of Life Indexes (QoLI), data was collected from 200 diabetic patients from clinics at Ga-Dikgale. The Kruskal-Wallis test results, amongst others, show that there are no statistically significant differences between the genders on the General Health questionnaire, (1) = 1.19, p = 0.22. The study recommends that outcomes of the psychological well-being and quality of life of diabetic patients can be improved if health practitioners factor in variances in modifying diabetes education and supportive care for individuals diagnosed with chronic conditions such as diabetes in association with mental health experts to ensure that the psychological well-being of these patients is prioritised. There is also a need to assess the psychological well-being and quality of life of diabetic patients in comparison to non-diabetic patients in rural communities such as Ga-Dikgale, VLIR-UOS (Flemish University Council)

After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared 2010 a decade of indigenous knowledge systems, there has been an increase in the studies on the role of African traditional healers in describing mental illness and its treatment. Studies have pointed to the relevance of traditional healing in primary health care in many developing countries. The aim of the present study was to explore the conceptualisation and treatment of mental illness by Zezuru Shona traditional healers in Goromonzi District in Zimbabwe. A qualitative research design, and in particular, the phenomenological method was used in the present study. Ten Shona traditional healers were selected through purposive and snowball sampling and requested to participate in the study. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using Hycner’s phenomenological explicitation process. Five major themes related to the traiditonal healers’ conceptualisation on mental illness were identified. These are: a). Types/characteristics of mental illness; b). Causes of mental illness; c). Diagnosis and treatment of mental illness; d). Challenges faced by traditional healers; and, e). Facilitating factors in the work of traditional healers. The study further revealed that there are a number of illnesses that are are not mental illness but could be closely associated with mental illness. These are epilepsy (pfari), locking (kusungwa) and sexual dysfunctions. Culture was found to play a central role in the traditional healers’ conceptualisation and treatment of mental illness. In this regard, spirituality was found to be a critical factor in the work of traditional healers in diagnosing, interpreting, treating and preventing mental illness and the associated conditions of ill health. These results were discussed in the context of indigenous knowledge systems and mental illness. The study is concluded by recommending the need to have a holistic understanding of mental illness and associated conditions.

The training to become a traditional healer has been under scrutiny because of the symptoms that are experienced during ancestral calling. Ancestral calling usually presents itself in the form of a mysterious physical or psychological illness that will not ordinarily respond to western treatment. The Eurocentric perspective interprets the symptoms of ancestral calling and the resultant process to become a traditional health practitioner as a manifestation of some psychological disturbance. The researcher embarked on a journey with traditional health practitioners to understand their lived experiences and explored the psychological meanings of Vhavenda ancestral calling with a view to identifying and documenting the psychological meanings embedded in this culturally entrenched practice. A qualitative research method located within the interpretative paradigm was used. A descriptive phenomenological research design was adopted to explore the lived experiences of traditional health practitioners who have gone through the process of ancestral calling. Both snowball and purposive sampling methods were used to recruit 17 participants until saturation was researched in the findings. The six major themes that emerged are: a) signs of ancestral calling; b) meaning attached to ancestral calling; c) help-seeking pathway following an ancestral call; d) responding to the ancestral call; e) roles of the master healer; and f) post training realities and experiences. The findings of the study revealed that there are several symptoms that are indicative that one has an ancestral calling. These symptoms are often misunderstood and misdiagnosed when interpreted from the Eurocentric perspective. However, accepting the ancestral calling and going through training is linked with identity formation. The findings also revealed that ancestral calling is a life-transforming and therapeutic experience and a journey of self realisation, South African Humanities Deans’ Association and the National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences

Mental illness is a high burden of disease especially in Low- and Medium-Income Countries (LMICs) like South Africa. In many LMICs, there is a paucity of Mental Health Professionals (MHCPs). As a result, people with mental illness call their faith healers or religious/spiritual leaders (pastors in this study) when experiencing mental health problems. Pastors are more accessible, share the same religious/spiritual beliefs about mental illness with their congregants and often provide religious/spiritual solutions to those who consult with them. Thus, they are often preferred over MHCPs. However, pastors are rarely involved as partners in community based mental health programs. While mental illness is mainly clinically diagnosed and recognised by MHCPs using the DSM-5 and ICD-10 codes, less is known in South Africa with regards to the views of pastors with regards to their notions of what mental illness is. Thus, it may be complex for Pentecostal pastors to clearly distinguish between spirit possession and mental illness as much as it is complex for MHCPs who struggle with accommodating their patients’ religious/spiritual beliefs. Religious/spiritual beliefs are significant in many Africans seeking mental health recovery. However, less has been explored in South Africa in the area of religion/spirituality and its relevance in the practice of clinical psychology. Western based psychotherapeutic methods of intervention which exclude the religious/spiritual domain of African clients continue to dominate the practise of psychology in Africa. Given the above, this study aimed to explore and understand selected Pentecostal pastors’ perception and treatment of mental illness. The research objectives were, namely: (1) to establish the notions held by Pentecostal pastors’ regarding what mental illness is (2) to establish Pentecostal pastors’ perception of what causes mental illness; (3) to determine Pentecostal pastors’ perceptions of how and by whom mental illness can be recog, National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS), and South African Humanities Deans Association (SAHUDA)

The psychological impact of perinatal death in the form of bereavement has been widely researched especially from the western perspective. The aim of this study was to establish the help-seeking pathways by mothers bereaved through perinatal death from the African perspective. The qualitative research paradigm in particular the phenomenological approach was adopted for the study. Phenomenology is described as an approach that focuses on the study of the lived experiences of individuals within their world. The application of this approach included personal interviews of 20 mothers who have experienced perinatal death at Doctor George Mukhari hospital in Gauteng province. The aim was to establish the help-seeking pathways they adopted to relief their distress, in terms of how they managed their bereavement and the help that they sought to relief their emotional distress. The findings of the study indicated that mothers lacked knowledge about what precipitated the onset of sudden symptoms such as early rupture of membrane, bleeding, lack of foetal movement which finally led to perinatal death. This lack of knowledge led mothers to attribute the cause of perinatal death to various reasons and conclusions such as distance decay, bad roads that delayed their arrival timeously at the hospital for their babies to be saved. Some cited lack of sense of urgency from the medical personnel and shortage of staff, especially doctors. However, they perceived positive social support from their families, spouses and medical professionals as one of the factors that contributed to their level of calmness and ability to bear the pain of loss. However, participants sought alternative help to facilitate clear understanding about what could have caused their babies to die, also how to manage their grief and how to deal with their subsequent pregnancies. Most of the participants benefited from the various healing pathways they chose. There is a need for healthcare system and community suppo

Mental illness is one of the major health challenges that significantly contribute to the global burden of diseases worldwide. Several studies reveal that mental illness often triggers or prompts people to embark on some help-seeking pathways in order to ameliorate their condition. These help-seeking pathways are often not linear routes, but rather recursive and complex. The aim of the study was to explore the pathways followed by caregivers of mentally ill persons seeking mental health care services in Sinthumule Kutama area. The objectives of the study were: a) to examine the experiences of caregivers in caring for persons suffering from mental illness; b) to explore pathways that caregivers often engage in when they are seeking treatment options for mentally ill patients before and/or after they have been diagnosed with their condition; and, c) to find out whether or not caregivers make use of other forms of management in addition to the formal treatment interventions that they may receive from the health care facilities. A qualitative approach was followed; and participants were selected through a snowball sampling method. The sample comprised twelve participants (female=11; Male=1) residing in and around the Sinthumule-Kutama District area, Limpopo Province. The participants’ ages ranged from 24 to 88 years. The data was collected using in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The following themes emerged from the study: a) the perceived causes of the mental illness; b) the pathways followed in the management of mental illness; and c) the use of alternative forms of management interventions. The findings of this study revealed that the participants hold different perceptions and beliefs about the probable causes of mental illness. Secondly, the study further revealed that the participants visited a number of alternative management agencies to seek treatment for their mentally ill family m

The growing number of young people in schools presenting with mental illness is increasingly becoming a disconcerting issue locally and globally. This qualitative study sought to explore the perceptions of mental illness by learners drawn from four secondary schools in Ga-Dikgale rural community (Limpopo Province). Twenty-seven learners (males = 14; females = 13) were selected through purposive sampling and requested to participate in the study. Semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions (n = 2) were conducted. The following three themes emerged from the data: a) Knowledge of mental illness, its causes and symptoms b) Knowledge on the management and types of interventions needed for mental illness c) Challenges associated with mentally ill people. The themes and sub-themes emerging suggested deep seated Afrocentric cultural perceptions which tended to shape learners’ views and understanding of mental illness. Some paradoxical explanations with regard to mental illness also emerged. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that mental health literacy campaigns be conducted in schools, VLIR-UOS

The aim of the study was to explore the notions of childhood mental illness by Sepedi-speaking elderly people in the Mankweng community of Limpopo Province (South Africa). Using the phenomenological method, the researcher sought to understand these elderly people’s notions with a view to: i) describing their conceptualizations of childhood mental illness; ii) determining their notions of the types and causes of mental illness; and iii) describing their views regarding the management of childhood mental illnesses. A total of 8 participants who were selected through snowball sampling were interviewed using unstructured interviews. The results of this study suggest that; i) childhood mental illness is better understood if described than defined, ii) childhood mental illness is manifested through behavioural and physical features, iii) there are many causal factors attributed to childhood mental illness, and iv) both Western and African traditional methods are recognized in the treatment of childhood mental illness in this rural community. The results are discussed in the context of the psychological literature on multicultural counseling and psychotherapy., Department of Health and Social Development

Extensive research on the knowledge and attitudes of students regarding mental illness has been conducted among university students globally. Some of these studies have indicated that students’ attitudes are influenced by a number of factors such as gender, year of study and contact with people with mental illness. In addition, university students’ attitudes towards people with mental illness were found to vary based on the course that they were enrolled in. The present study sought to explore the knowledge and attitudes of university postgraduate students towards mental illness. A survey research design was adopted. Using systematic random sampling, 143 students enrolled for an honours degree in the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Limpopo were selected and enlisted to participate in the study. The students completed a self-reported questionnaire including the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule (MAKS) and Attitude Scale for Mental Illness (ASMI). The results of the study indicate that nearly half of students (49.7%) have adequate knowledge about mental illness. Most students (mean = 38.55) were able to identify mental disorders and were familiar with various treatment modalities. Gender, study course, and previous contact with people with mental illness had no effect on the students’ knowledge of mental illness. A further exploration revealed that 50.3% of the students displayed favourable attitudes towards people with mental illness. 31.5% of the students reported having previous contact with people with mental illness. A majority (60%) of students who had previous contact with someone with mental illness displayed favourable attitudes compared to students (46%) with no previous contact. Lastly, there was no relationship between the students’ knowledge about mental illnesses and their attitudes. The results suggest that educational and awareness campaigns aimed at improving students’ knowledge about mental illness and attitudes should promote contact with

The study explored recidivism as a lived experience among the youth incarcerated at Polokwane Secure Care Centre in Polokwane, Limpopo Province. The study focused on describing the subjective meanings that recidivist youth attach to their behaviour and established what the youth consider to be the causes of their recidivist behaviour. Furthermore, the study explored what the youth perceive as possible interventions to reduce recidivism. A total of six participants (all males; aged between 16 and 18) were selected using the purposive sampling method. Data were collected using semi structured interviews. Thematic analysis method was used to analyse the data. The six major themes that emerged during data analysis were; a) labelling; b) peer pressure; c) substance abuse; d) socialisation; e) conduct disorder; and f) self discipline and constructive activities. The findings of the study suggest that various factors contribute to recidivism including the use of substances; parenting styles as well as peer pressure. Furthermore, the findings showed that behavioural problems including criminal behaviour in the youth, may be due to being labelled as a criminal or Conduct Disorder. The findings further suggest the influence the environment has on the youth, and how being socialised in an environment that emphasises a fancy lifestyle may contribute to the youth engaging in criminal activities to meet the standards of that particular environment. The findings further suggest that self discipline and of constructive activities may help to reduce recidivism among the youth. The study is concluded by, among others, recommending that psychological services be widely available to communities which will allow the youth to have easy access to such services. This may assist them in dealing with issues such as their experiences within the households (such as abuse) and how to better manage/ control their emotions as opposed to responding aggressively.

Suicide is one of the major global public health challenges, with evidence showing that an interplay of multiple factors leads to someone taking their life. While suicide is often a solitary act, its impact on other people is far-reaching. When someone commits suicide, family and friends are almost always left behind to grieve, trying to understand the reasons for the suicide and having to learn to continue with their lives. Because suicide happens within families, its impact on the remaining members is of paramount importance. Understanding the impact of suicide on the surviving family members is a critical step in determining how to assist survivors. The study comprised eleven (11) participants who were all nuclear family members bereaved by suicide in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. They were all from the Sepedi-speaking ethnic group. Data was collected through in-depth, semi structured, individual face-to-face interviews. Data analysis was done through the use of Hycner’s phenomenological explication process. The following themes were extracted from the participants’ case studies: knowledge of suicide; causes of suicide; methods used in the act; the impact of suicide on the family; prevention of suicide; coping strategies; grief following suicide and grief following other causes of death; concerns about the topic of suicide; and, suggestions in terms of support for suicide bereaved families. The current study reveals that there is still a lot of secrecy around psychological problems which lead people to suicide with the survivors not knowing who or what to blame. It is also evident from the findings that suicide bereaved people tended to be psychologically disturbed, less likeable and more blameworthy than non-suicidally bereaved. The psychological impact experienced includes depression, self-blame, aggression, suicidal ideations and also resulting in hospitalisation for some. Suicide can lead to longer and more complicated grief reacti

Suicidal behaviour is a global health concern. The youth have been found to be at an exceptional risk in terms of suicidal behaviour due to a variety of problems that they encounter. Studies have been conducted to conceptualise suicidal behaviour. However, cultural aspects have often been neglected or marginalised. In Africa traditional healers play an important role in health care provision and the conceptualisation of problems encountered by the people. The present study was aimed at exploring how traditional healers conceptualise youth suicidal behaviour in Bakenberg, Limpopo Province. A qualitative exploratory method was utilised to execute the study. Study participants included ten traditional healers (six females and four males) aged between 35 and 85 years of age, who were selected using a snowball sampling method. A conversational method was used to collect data, employing semi-structured interview questions as a way of initiating conversations. The conversations were conducted in Sepedi and later translated into English. The study revealed that suicide is mainly understood to be multifaceted. Witchcraft, family problems, poor problem-solving skills, substance use, life difficulties and other secondary factors were all identified as central themes. The study revealed that suicide is a speciality within traditional healing, thus only those who are gifted and trained can assess or intervene. Ditaola (divination bones) and ancestral guidance were reported to be some of the means used to identify suicidal youth. The study also revealed that talk therapy (counselling) and herbal medicine „Molebatsa‟ were used as the main intervention methods. Herbal medicine is used as both a prevention and treatment of suicidal behaviour in youth. Thus it can prevent the occurrence of suicide or calm an individual who had a failed suicide attempt.

Early motherhood has been associated with negative biological and social outcomes in the developing world of the teenage mother and child. The study sought to explore the psychological health of teenage mothers from selected secondary schools in Seshego Township, Limpopo Province. Generally, the study makes use of a comparative design and 120 participants were selected for the study consisting of 60 teenage mothers and 60 teenage non-mothers. The psychological health of teenage mothers was compared to the psychological health of teenage non-mothers. The study made use of the 28-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) with only three demographic questions, which was given to both teenage mothers and teenage non–mothers. The results of the study show that there was no significant difference in the psychological health of teenage mothers and teenage non–mothers. Results also showed that there was no significant difference on the sub-scales of somatic symptoms, anxiety and insomnia, social dysfunction and depression. Results of teenage mothers were compared to one another, and this comparison also showed that there was no significant difference within this group. Also results on age, grade and family structure showed no significant difference between the two groups compared to one another. Given the literature that exists worldwide showing that teenage motherhood can have negative impacts on mothers, particularly social and economic, but also physical and psychological health, it is clear that further research in this area needs to be conducted.

The aim of the present study was to investigate knowledge and attitudes of rural community members towards mental illness. A total of 249 participants were selected through simple random sampling from Dikgopeng community, Ga-Dikgale, through the Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) table. A simple random sampling method was employed in selecting the participants. A quantitative cross-sectional research study was administered using the Mental Attitude Knowledge Scale (MAKS) and Attitude Scale of Mental Illness (ASMI). The MAKS and ASMI are structured 5-point Linkert scale questionnaires translated from English into Sepedi. Demographic data were collected and administered using the demographic questionnaire. The Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) software package for Windows (Version 24) was used to analyse data collected and to draw conclusions from this. Two hypotheses were drawn from the study to help understand the aim of the study. Hypothesis one entailed that there is a significant difference in the level of knowledge towards mental illness by members of GaDikgale community, according to gender and age. According to the present study, there was a mean effect of gender with male participants being more knowledgeable about mental illness as compared to female participants. It was revealed that there was no effect of age on the knowledge scale. Hypothesis two detailed that there is a significant difference in attitudes on mental illness by members of GaDikgale community according to gender and age. From the study, there was a positive attitude towards people with mental illness by the older participants than there was with the younger participants. There was no effect of gender on attitudes towards mental illness. It is shown from the present study that within rural communities, with the majority (57%) of the participants being lay people, mental illness is regarded as a burden for the family, contributing to isolation and poor access to adequate western trea

The CVA patients normally do not know what to expect and often get confused by the change of behaviour that may result. This is because little is done on informing them of the risk factors, the stigma attached to CVAs, and also some strategies on how to deal with all the experiences CVAs bring along with them. The main aim of this study was to inquire more about the lived experiences of people with cerebrovascular accidents in Ga-Dikgale, Limpopo Province. Ten people living with CVAs’ in Ga-Dikgale village, in the Capricorn district, were selected and interviewed. The interviews were audio-taped, and later transcribed and translated. The original data was reduced and interrogated to identify some emerging meaning units which further led to emergence of themes. Phenomenology and the health belief model were chosen as the relevant lenses with which the study could be viewed. Phenomenology helps understand the individual from his or her point of view while the health belief model describes how a person’s belief towards his or her health status can affect their healing process, and these are lens with which to view this study. Snowball and purposive sampling methods were used for sampling participants and data was collected through semi-structured face- to-face interviews. IPA was used for analysing collected data in this study. Most participants in this study were found to still believe that CVAs are a result of witchcraft, while ignoring the main risk factors such as hypertension, high blood pressure and diabetes, to mention a few. The study also study revealed the daily experiences of living with CVAs. It is not an easy thing for others as they have to endure a lot of pain and also the embarrassment of being unable to control their bodies and emotions., National Research Foundation (NRF)

Demographical factors affect the way people perceive, conceptualise and make meaning of their daily living experiences, which in turn influence their decision-making abilities in certain situations. Therefore, perceptions and conceptualisations, together with the associated attitudes to organ donation, were defined and understood in participants’ socio-cultural context. A qualitative study was conducted among the African elderly community members of Madibaneng Village (Sekhukhune District), Limpopo Province (South Africa) to explore perceptions of organ donation. African elderly community members were selected using purposive sampling, after ethical clearance from the University and gate-keepers’ permission from the Tswako-Lekentle traditional council had been obtained. Six (6) males and six (6) females were interviewed. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The following psychological themes and subthemes emerged from the study: African elderly community members’ understanding and knowledge about organ donation (inadequate knowledge and lack of awareness); community members’ feelings about organ donation; African elderly community members attitudes to organ donation (family dynamics relating to organ donation, culture and organ donation and psychological aspects of organ donation), and participants’ perceptions of those living with donated organs. The findings revealed that multiple demographical factors affect and influence people’s perceptions of organ donation. The study revealed that 80% of the elderly community members expressed some positive perceptions about the process of organ donation; however, some of the participants expressed conflicting factors that might affect their ultimate decision about becoming donors, such as associated psychological aspects. Other participants portrayed a negative perception that was more likely to have been affected by cultural factors, their family dynamics, beli

Thesis (Ph. D. (International Politics)) -- University of Limpopo, 2016, The United States of America’s (US) foreign policy towards Africa has been the subject for debate. This is partly because the country’s relationship with African countries is not consistent. By and large, such relations are shaped by a number of factors which include political orientation and material resources. Within this context, the present study uses case studies from two different parts of Africa to tease out US foreign policy towards Africa. This explorative study uses Ghana and the United Republic of Tanzania (hereafter referred to as Tanzania) as test cases to compare and critique the post-Cold War foreign policy of the US towards Africa. It does this by first analysing and constructing the theoretical material on the three pillars of the US Africa policy (oil, democracy and security) and subsequently, contemporaneously locating the US relationship with Ghana and Tanzania. Largely, the study carries a historical sensibility as it traces the US relationship with Ghana and Tanzania from as far as the colonial era. History is crucial in this regard because the past provides a sound basis for understanding the present and future. To add, in International Politics theory holds sway and history is used as a laboratory. In this thesis, the researcher proposes Afrocentricity as an alternative theoretical paradigm crucial in understanding US foreign policy towards Africa. As it shall be seen, such a paradigm (theoretical lens) remains critical in highlighting the peculiarity of the US relationship with Ghana and Tanzania. It is envisaged that a deeper understanding of the US foreign policy towards Ghana and Tanzania is achievable when its analysis and interpretation is located within a broader continental context of Africa. To realise the purpose of this study, the researcher relies methodologically on interdisciplinary critical discourse and conversations in their widest forms. With reference to the test cases for this study, the agenda for democratic consolidation

Upon entering the university environment, first year students encounter what could be described as a “foreign culture”, and have to reconcile conflicting transitional spaces of their home and university identities. This adjustive demand can lead to some considerable levels of psychological distress. This study examined the level of psychological health in first year students. It also evaluated whether factors such as monetary background, residential area, race and the availability of bursaries affect students’ transition into “university life”. First year students (N = 300; male = 135; female = 165) completed the General Health Questionnaire-12 at the University of Limpopo. A substantial percentage (that is, 30.33%) of the participants was found to have or is prone to psychological health problems. This finding is consistent with the results of previous studies which have found that some students may be susceptible to mental health problems predating their entry into university. There was no significant difference between the levels of psychological health between males and females and bursary users and those that are funded by their parents or guardians. There was also no significant difference between those that live in the rural areas and those from the cities. However, the figures between those that are poor and rich were strikingly noteworthy.

Studies by the World Health Organisation have shown that mental illness is an international health concern across the globe, with one in four people (25%) suffering from mental disorders in both developed and developing countries. In many African countries traditional health practitioners are the health care providers of choice for individuals, families and communities. The aim of this study was to explore methods used by Shona speaking traditional health practitioners in the prevention of mental illness in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. A qualitative research design was used in the present study. Ten Shona speaking traditional health practitioners (male=9; female=1) were selected through purposive sampling and requested to participate in the study. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed through thematic content analysis. It was found that traditional healers tend to commonly understand and conceptualise mental illness in terms of the causes instead attaching nosological labels to these conditions. The findings of the study also show that most of the traditional health practitioners interviewed had similar methods of preventing mental illness both in families and individuals. Culture was found to be central in shaping how the traditional health practitioners understand and prevent mental illness. Ancestors were found to be pivotal in specifically determining the methods to prevent mental illness for each client. The study is concluded by recommending closer collaboration between the dominant Western health care system and traditional healing in order to improve mental health care provision in Zimbabwe.

The South African constitution makes provision for the rights of gays and lesbians, and has legalized same-sex relationships. However, many people, including students in same-sex relationships continue to be harassed and maltreated. The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes of first entering students towards same-sex relationships at the University of Limpopo. A sample of 100 students (first entering students= 50, final level students = 50; with ages ranging from eighteen to forty five years), with a total number of twenty five (25) students drawn each of the four faculties at the university were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data was collected using the Homophobia Scale comprising of 25 close-ended questions which focus on behavioural, affective and cognitive attitudes towards gays and lesbians. Data were analysed using nominal data analysis and interpreted using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) software. The study results revealed that fifty two percent (52%) of first entering students at the University of Limpopo have negative attitudes towards same-sex relationships with seventy four percent (74%) of first-entering students having no knowledge regarding same-sex relationships. Seventy three percent (73%) of participants behave negatively towards people in same-sex relationships. The study is concluded by recommending that more similar studies that include larger sample of students from different universities and different racial backgrounds be conducted. The results of the study have implications for the University of Limpopo in when it comes to understanding and promoting knowledge about same-sex relationships.

The study explored the psychological meaning of mourning rituals in Botlokwa community, Limpopo Province. The study focused on identifying and describing the types of mourning rituals observed and performed by the participants after the loss of a loved one. Furthermore the study explored the subjective meaning the participants attach to the mourning rituals so as to identify and articulate the psychological themes embedded in the mourning rituals. A total of ten participants (male = 5; females = 5; aged between 40 and 60) were selected using the purposive sampling method. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Thematic content analysis method was used to analyse the data. The three major themes that emerged during data analysis were; a) The types of mourning rituals observed and performed after the death of a loved one; b) the subjective meaning that the bereaved attach to the mourning rituals and c) the psychological meaning embedded in the mourning rituals observed and performed after the death of a loved one. The findings of the study suggest that the mourning rituals performed by the Batlokwa people have significant psychological meanings. These include assisting the bereaved to cope with the death of a loved one, strengthening the bereaved and ensuring that the bereaved are healed and accept the death of a loved one. The study results further shows the different subjective meanings that the bereaved attach to the mourning rituals performed. Furthermore the findings of the study suggest that the participants perform mourning rituals in order to prevent them from misfortunes, illnesses, bad luck and to remove what is perceived as a “dark cloud” hanging over them after the death of a loved one. The findings further suggest that the bereaved benefit psychologically from performing the mourning rituals. One of the benefits is having to let go of the deceased with the knowledge that their loved ones’ soul is resting in peace. The study is concluded by, NIHSS scholarship

Caring for children with intellectual disability often results in stressful experiences for caregivers, even leading to crises in some cases. The aim of the present study was to explore the lived experiences of teachers of intellectually disabled learners in three special schools in Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. The study sought to determine teachers’ understanding of intellectual disability, the challenges they face in working with such children, and the psychological strategies they use to deal with intellectually disabled learners. The study was qualitative in nature. The sample consisted of 9 participants (male=0; females=9) working with intellectually disabled learners in special schools who were selected through a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using the interpretive phenomenological analysis. An understanding of intellectual disability as denoting deficits in such learners’ brains, preventing their optimum functioning was common. The findings of the study show that the experience of teachers of children with intellectual disability was fairly positive. It was characterised by feelings of fulfilment and contentment. Nonetheless, challenges such as burn out, stigma and lack of parental and government support were also revealed in the study. Essentially, the study recommends workshops on effective coping strategies for the teachers, and public awareness campaigns in communities about intellectual disability, amongst others.

The aim of this study was to determine the notions of manhood by adolescent African boys in Ngove Village, Limpopo Province. The study sought to describe what it means to be a man according to African boys in a rural community. The study also described critical routes through which African boys transit from boyhood to manhood. The qualitative method was used. The sample consisted of 10 participants from Ngove Village, and was selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected through individual semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Data was analysed using interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA). Common themes around what it means to be a man were clearly delineated. Findings of this study suggest that manhood is a status that is earned when a male person possesses specific qualities that one’s community and culture consider to be in keeping with being a man. The findings of this study further suggested that from early childhood, African boys experience social pressure that compels them into channeling their behaviours into standards set by the community. Meanwhile it is maintained that the male gender is the primary element of manhood, it is strongly emphasised that the male person will need to display his manhood behaviourally.

The aim of the present study was to explore and describe the psychosocial experiences of secondary school learners from child-headed households in Mankweng area, Limpopo province. A qualitative research approach, specifically the phenomenological research design was used in this study. Ten grade 8 to 10 learners (male = 5; female = 5), aged between 16 and 18 years were purposively selected and requested to participate in the study. Data were collected through structured interviews. The Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) method was used to analyse the data. The following three categories of themes were identified: a). Circumstances leading to child-headed households; b). Socioeconomic themes category; and, c). Psychosocial themes category. Each of the three categories yielded a number of themes. There were nine psychosocial category themes that emerged from the data. These among others included the following: a). Poor scholastic performance by learners from child-headed families; b). Increased levels of sexual abuse and teenage pregnancy for the girl child; and, c). Psychosocial trauma. With regard to coping strategies, the study found that girls tended to engage in risky sexual behaviour as a way to access financial support and to cope with their challenges when compared to boys who tended to engage in more positive behaviour like garden work in order to earn a living. Based on the above findings, the study recommends that learners from child-headed households should receive counselling support from school based support teams. Special consideration should be given to the orphaned girl child who is more vulnerable to psychosocial risks when compared to a boy child from a similar family background. The study further recommends that community support centres be established in order to support learners from child-headed families with after-school care, meals and recreational activities. There is also a need for community forums to be established and to prior

The deterioration of health associated with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus often leads to psychological problems especially among ageing older persons. The aim of the present study was to explore the lived experiences of older persons living with chronic diseases in Ga-Dikgale community in the Limpopo Province. Specifically, the study sought to determine the subjective meanings that older persons living with chronic diseases attach to their conditions; to establish older persons’ causal explanations of their chronic diseases; and, to determine the psychological strategies that older persons use to manage their conditions. A qualitative approach, and in particular, the phenomenological method was used in the present study. Ten older persons living with the experiences of chronic diseases (male = 3: female = 7), aged between 60 and 90 were selected through purposive sampling and requested to participate in the study. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and analyzed using the Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) method. The themes that emerged from the study included the following: a). The subjective explanations by older persons living with a chronic disease; b). Manifestations of chronic diseases; c). The psychological coping strategies used by older persons; d) The management of chronic diseases. The findings of the present study further suggest that the participants understand their illnesses as chronic conditions that require long-term management. A number of psychological strategies are utilised by the participants to cope with their chronic conditions. These include passive/active coping and cognitive reappraisal coping strategies. With regard to the management of chronic conditions, most participants were of the view that medical treatment received from the clinic is appropriate for the treatment of their conditions. Some of the participants were however of the view that the nurses did not give them enough in

The aim of the study was to explore the psychological profiles of perpetrators of domestic violence as represented in newspaper articles. An archival research approach was chosen as the appropriate design for the present study. The researcher accessed and studied all newspaper articles from two daily newspapers reporting on domestic violence over a two-year period (that is, from January 2011 up to December 2012). A total of 98 newspaper articles (sixty from the Sowetan newspaper, and 38 thirty eight from the Daily Sun newspaper) covering the period under review were retrieved. The data was captured on a self-developed data record sheet. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. The results were analysed and presented using frequency tables, descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations. The results of the study showed that the majority of the victims of domestic violence were women with little education and skills. Assault, attempted murder and murder were found to be the forms of violence perpetrated against the victims. The majority of the perpetrators (70.4%) were males, with higher education and skills. Some of the perpetrators were represented in the newspaper articles as being emotionally troubled (69.4%), passively aggressive (11.2%), mentally disturbed (5.1%) and socially deviant (3.1%). The majority of the mental health problems that were associated with the perpetrators of domestic violence included depression, borderline personality and acute psychosis. A number of triggers were found to lead to domestic violence. These included family arguments, jealousy, substance abuse, and criminal behaviour. Based on the above results, the study is concluded by recommending anger and stress management as some of the programmes that the government could introduce to minimise domestic violence.

Literature has shown that war has negative psychological consequences and long-term effects on war veterans that can be passed on from generation to generation. Little is known about Zimbabwe war veterans` conceptualisation of trauma. The study was aimed at developing a culturally appropriate psychological model for Zimbabwean war veterans. The research objectives were; 1)To explore the Zimbabwean war veterans’ conceptualisation of complex trauma. 2)To establish how Zimbabwean war veterans cope with complex trauma in their lives. 3) To develop a culturally relevant psychological trauma model for war veterans in Zimbabwe. The study was qualitative and the phenomelogical research approach was adopted. The research was informed by the Afrocentric paradigm. Criterion sampling was used to select twenty-six participants. Sixteen individual interviews and two focus group discussions were conducted. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The research revealed five major themes covering the experiences of complex trauma among war veterans in Zimbabwe. These themes are social, economic, spiritual, political and personal trauma. Research findings also identified cultural notions of trauma. The participants` had their own way of conceptualising trauma in their local language. The following broad themes that described the participants` coping strategies were identified; appraisal coping, social coping, problem focused coping, emotion focused coping and spiritual coping. Their coping strategies were informed by their culture, experiences and social context. From these themes a cultural model of trauma was developed. The model is unique as it acknowledges the importance of the cultural context in the conceptualisation of trauma and the need to be knowledgeable about local constructs, meanings and languages that inform world views. The model validates propositions by the Afrocentric paradigm that trauma in African contexts is multifaceted. The study recommends the need

The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the views on child homicide by mothers. The qualitative research approach, and in particular the phenomenological method of inquiry was used. A sample of seventeen mothers (with ages ranging from thirteen to fifty three years) was drawn from four female correctional centres in South Africa, namely; Thohoyandou (Limpopo Province), Polokwane (Limpopo Province), Johannesburg correctional centre (Gauteng Province) and Durban Westville correctional centre (KwaZulu-Natal Province). The sample was obtained through purposive sampling. All the participants were interviewed using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using the phenomenological method. The themes that emerged from data analysis were: a) Motives for child homicide; b) Type of methods used in child homicide; and, c) Pre- and post-homicidal ideations and behaviour. The study revealed that there were different motives leading mothers to commit child homicide. These included: child homicide as a result of everyday stressors that the mothers encountered;child homicide as an act of altruism; child homicide to gain acceptance; perpetrators of child homicide as victims of abuse; child homicide as accidental; child homicide attributed to witchcraft; and, mental illness as amotive for child homicide. The study also highlighted different types of methods used by the mothers to commit child homicide. The methods included: the use of weapons; hitting, dropping and strangling; suffocation; drowning; and, poisoning. The findings also suggested that pre-homicidal ideations and behaviour of the participants were associated with anger, depression, frustration and self blame. The participants showed post-homicidal ideations and behaviour such as remorse, regret and guilt, whilst others felt a sense of relief and were somehow hopeful about the future. The study is concluded by making recommendations for further research on child homicide based on larger sam

Several studies have shown that alternative health care practitioners play an important role in addressing the mental health care needs of individuals by offering culturally appropriate treatment. In South Africa, it has been suggested that indigenous healers are frequently consulted for mental illness when compared to their Western trained counterparts. The aim of the present study was to explore the conceptualization of mental illness by VhaVenda indigenous healers. Specifically, the study sought to achieve the following objectives: a). Establish what VhaVenda indigenous healers understand about mental illness; b). Determine the types of mental illness identified by VhaVenda indigenous healers; and, c). To determine what indigenous healers in this community perceive as the signs and symptoms of mental illness. A qualitative approach, and in particular, the case study method was used in the present study. Ten indigenous healers (male = 8: female = 2), aged between 35 and 60 were selected through snowball sampling and requested to participate in the study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using the content analysis method. The following psychological themes emerged from the study: a). participants understanding of mental illness; b). causes of mental illness; c). types of mental illness; d). signs and symptoms of mental illness; e). diagnoses of mental illness and f). Treatment of mental illness. The findings revealed that there are multiple causalities of mental illness and were accounted for by African indigenous beliefs. The findings of the present study further suggested that the participants do not have an elaborate nosological system that distinguishes between the different types of mental illness. Instead of giving names to the illnesses, the participants tended to describe the illness based on what is perceived as the cause which emanate from cultural ideologies. Furthermore, the results revealed that indigenous healers use t

The role of indigenous healers in managing various conditions of ill-health has been studied and debated. Studies have revealed that the majority of the population in South Africa use traditional health care to treat various mental conditions. Studies have also revealed that traditional medicine plays an important role in primary health care in many countries. The aim of the study was to explore Swati traditional healers’ conceptualization of the causes and treatment methods of mental illness in Kanyamazane Township in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. A phenomenological research method was used in the present study. Ten (10) traditional healers, six (6) female and four (4) male, who were selected through purposive sampling method participated in the study. Semi structured personal interviews were conducted with the traditional healers. The interviews were conducted in siSwati and later translated to English. The main themes that emerged were grouped under the following 3 main topics: conceptualisation and types of mental illness; causes of mental illness; and, treatment of mental illness. The traditional healers identified and described a number of mental illnesses that could be identified by their behavioural symptoms and thought disruptions. These include: depressive conditions, addictions, psychotic illnesses, adjustment disorders and genetic mental illnesses. Mental illness was perceived to be caused by a number of factors that, among others, include the following: supernatural powers such as witchcraft, spirit possession, intrusion of objects, evil mechanisation, improper use of traditional medicine, disregarding ancestors and cultural customs as well invitation by ancestors to become a traditional healer, substance abuse, genetic predisposition, life stressors, social conditions, and injuries to the head, Cleansing the patient of evil spirits through washing, steaming, induced vomiting, casting out evil and herbal medication were some of the methods that wer

The Euro-American bereavement literature has greatly contributed towards the management of the bereaved over centuries by psychologists. However, much of the literature lacks inclusion of non-westerners‘ bereavement and grief experiences. In light of this historical weakness, the aim of the present study was to explore bereavement and mourning in the Northern Sotho community with a view to identifying and documenting the psychological themes embedded in this culturally constructed experience. A total of fourteen participants (male = 7; females = 7; aged between 35 and 85) were selected using the snowball sampling method. The data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Hycner‘s adapted phenomenological explicitation method was used to analyse the data. The four major themes that emerged during data-explicitation were; a). The influence of belief systems on the conception of death; b). The experience and expression of the pain of grief; c). Diverse bereavement rituals and cultural practices that are performed to heal the bereaved, and; d). Various mechanisms that are put in place to quarantine the bereaved from spreading death contaminations. The study findings suggest that the conceptualisation, experience, and expression of bereavement is profoundly influenced by an interplay of a plethora of factors that include people‘s varying worldviews, cultural practices, and now, the emerging new-global culture. Based on the findings of the study, a culturally informed bereavement conceptual model was developed. The model proposes that a clinician should be guided by four domains when providing grief counselling. The first domain involves the clinician looking into the client‘s belief system and how this influences the client‘s grieving process. The second domain entails analysis of the nature and circumstances surrounding death. In the third domain, the clinician will need to examine the influence of various psychological, physical and socioeconomic factor, SAHUDA/NIHSS

Culture affects the way people conceptualise and make meaning in their daily experiences, and in turn influence their decisions to seek solutions to their predicaments. Therefore the definition, causes and treatment of illnesses appear to be perceived in a socio-cultural context. A qualitative study was conducted among the indigenous healers of Moletjie (Capricorn District), Limpopo Province, (South Africa) to explore the treatment of mental illness. Indigenous healers were selected using the purposive sampling after the African Religion/ Culture & Health Forum was consulted and the names of indigenous healers who are members were obtained. 5 males and 5 females were interviewed. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the content analysis method. The following psychological themes emerged from the study: indigenous healers’ notions of mental illness; perceived causes of mental illness; the process of assessment using the divination bones (ditaola); general treatment practices; treatment approaches to psychotic patients; continuous assessment during the treatment process; constant observation of patients during the treatment process; and, treatment procedures that are executed on discharge of the patient. The findings revealed that there are multiple causalities of mental illness and were accounted for by African traditional beliefs. The study revealed that 90% of the indigenous healers admit patients in their homestead during the healing process but the duration differs. The results further revealed that there are two major treatment modalities employed: namely, the use of herbs and ritual performance. The findings emphasize that treatment of mental illness is mainly determined by the perceived causes which emanate from cultural ideologies.

This study explored the phenomenological experiences of mothers of children with mental retardation in two special schools (i.e. Fulufhelo and Pfunanani). The former is in Vhembe while the later is situated in Mopani district in Limpopo province. A qualitative approach was followed and participants were selected using purposive sampling. The sample consisted of 24 members (12 for individual interviews and 12 for focus group) whose children were diagnosed with mental retardation at the time of the study. Data were collected through unstructured interviews and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. The following psychological themes emerged from the study: mothers’ subjective understanding of mental retardation; mothers’ understanding of the causes of mental retardation; living with a mental retarded child; psychological reactions of mothers to a diagnosis of mental retardation and mothers’ causal explanation of mental retardation. The present study discovered that all families with mentally retarded children are directly or indirectly affected by this condition.

The study investigated the academic performance of orphaned primary school learners between the ages of eight and ten in Mankweng circuit. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative component of the study included the sampling of 200 learners from ten schools in Mankweng circuit. One hundred learners formed the experimental group (orphans) whilst another hundred were placed in the comparison group (non-orphans). Availability and quota sampling was used for sampling the experimental group and simple random sampling was used to sample the comparison group. Four learning areas chosen for the study include Sepedi, Numeracy, English and Lifeskills. In all learning areas, it was found that the comparison group fell within level 2 (50-69) area whilst the experimental group fell within level 1 (0-49) area suggesting that the comparison group is performing better than the experimental group. The qualitative component of the study involved sampling ten educators from ten sampled primary schools in Mankweng Circuit, i.e. one educator per school. The main theme that emerged from these transcripts was the educators’ view that orphaned children tend to perform poorly at school when compared to non-orphaned children. Furthermore, the educators were of the view that orphaned children are more likely to show poor grades, lack of concentration and inability to write schoolwork when compared to non-orphans. The educators were also of the view that orphaned children were more likely to display behavioural and emotional problems when compared to non-orphans. Educators also suggested that guardians of orphaned learners are not coping well, and as such, are unable to adequately attend to the needs of these children. In conclusion, interventions at school, government as well as community levels are suggested. A suggestion is also made regarding the support that should be provided for grandparents (guardians) who tend to be drained as a result of having to lo

A number of studies have indicated that psychological management of chronic diseases is important in order to assist a patient to cope with and manage their condition. The disease and the phenomenon around it can be explained as reasons why individuals move from one treatment facility to the other. This study explored the psychological strategies used by people in Ga-Dikgale community to manage chronic diseases. A qualitative approach was followed and participants were selected through purposive sampling. Ten participants (five males and five females) who are receiving health care services for their chronic diseases were requested to participate in the study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis. The results of the study are presented in terms of the following themes: participants‟ own explanations of chronic diseases; participants‟ subjective notions of the events or factors that could have led to their chronic diseases; what participants believe is the main causes of their disease(external or internal factors); pathways followed by the participants to manage their chronic disease; experiences of living with chronic disease; psychological coping strategies; the role of educational agencies; and implications for theory. The study revealed that chronic diseases are ambiguous in nature, with every individual explaining them in ways that relate to their personal experiences. For this reason there are different ways of managing or coping with them. Some people take on more active means of coping, while others are more passive., VLIR project