Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters)

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South African Audiologists’ Perceived Knowledge, Views and Reported Practice in the Realm of Fall Risk Screening with Older Adults
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-06) Van Rie, Kayla Jade; Kanji, Amisha; Naudé, Alida
Background: Falling in older adults has contributed significantly to injury and loss of life worldwide, thus, warranting the development of fall screening and prevention measures. Audiologists routinely evaluate older adults and are also key role players in balance disorders. The effectiveness of FRS and prevention is believed to depend on the healthcare professional's level of knowledge and practice in fall prevention. Little is however known about South African (SA) audiologists’ views, perceived knowledge, and practice in the realm of fall risk with older adults. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the perceived knowledge, views and reported practices of SA audiologists in the realm of FRS with older adults. Method: A mixed methods approach with a sequential triangulation design was utilised. The participants recruited for this study were SA audiologists who were registered with the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) and had experience with older adults. The systematic review was used to inform the data collection tools. The data was then collected via online surveys and online interviews. Purposive sampling was used as the survey Uniform Resource Locator (URL) link and interview invitations were distributed via email to the SA Association of Audiologists (SAAA) and, the National Speech Therapy and Audiology databases and was also distributed via audiology-specific social media platforms. One hundred and six (n=106) participants completed the online survey and eighteen (n=18) participated in the online interviews. Data from the survey was analysed using descriptive and correlation statistics, and a deductive thematic analysis was used for interview data. Results: The research study findings indicated a strong motivation among audiologists to learn more about supporting older adults at risk of falling, as almost 100% (n=102) expressed a desire for further training. Notably, the results showed that 83% (n=88) of participants XVIII believed that audiologists lacked sufficient training in FRS during their undergraduate curriculum, aligning with their perception of limited knowledge in conducting FRSs. In light of these results, it is, however, encouraging that 68% (n=73) of participants believed that audiologists had an important role to play in FRS and 58% (n=62) believed that it should be within the audiologist’s scope of practice. Ninety percent (n=95) of participants believed that incorporating FRS would change clinical practice and may provide the profession with an opportunity for expansion. Several challenges which could influence the perceived feasibility of the implementation of FRS clinically were reported, including the need for additional training (80%; n=85), lack of time (48%; n=51), difficulty collaborating with multidisciplinary team (MDT) members (38%; n=40) and discomfort with the vestibular portion of their scope of practice (38%; n=40 ). Currently, it appears that very few audiologists are conducting FRSs with older adults. The results clearly suggests an opportunity for audiologists to expand their current perceived scope of practice, enhancing their role in preventative audiology. Conclusion: Overall, this study found that SA audiologists viewed embracing the implementation of FRS positively. A lack of perceived knowledge and anticipated challenges were reported to limit the implementation of FRS clinically.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health in South Africa: Experiences of Black Psychologists
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-10) Seboka, Kanelo; Amod, Zaytoon
This study explored the experiences of Black psychologists working with children and adolescents within the South African context. The purpose of this investigation was to shed light on these experiences, whose insights could contribute to teaching and training as well as to policy developments in relation to child and adolescent mental health in this country. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed for this study. Individual, semi-structured interviews with ten Black psychologists who are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) was the primary data collection method, analysed using thematic data analysis. Eight themes were identified: Perceptions of Psychology and Mental Health; Systemic Influence and Understanding; Parent/Caregiver Psychoeducation; Inter-Professional Collaboration; Professional Competence; The ‘Black Culture’ and Context; Indigenous Knowledge and Practices and Mental Health Resources and Policies in South Africa. Findings indicated the need for promotion of the following aspects: mental health psychoeducation to eliminate negative health-seeking behaviours, professional inter collaboration and overall child and adolescent mental health. Findings further indicated the need for more cultural diversity in psychology training programmes as well as the prioritisation of child and adolescent mental health in government policies. Based on this, it is recommended that schools/clinics be reliable sources of mental health information; inter-professional training that has cultural relevance be offered at tertiary level; and for promotive and intervention programmes to be implemented in schools as a form of psychosocial support for the learners, teachers and the broader community.
Exploring the relationship between job demands, resource, and psychological well-being: A study in the hospitality and tourism industries.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Marks, Joshua Blaine; Donald, Fiona
Identified as a key factor contributing to elevated levels of individual performance and thus organisational performance, ensuring ideal levels of individual psychological well-being has grown increasingly important within organisations, especially following the onset and recession of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the pandemic having receded, its initial impact left lasting effects on various industries, particularly the tourism and hospitality industries as these industries saw a drastic reduction in workforce size and revenue generated. This has prompted the implementation of nationwide recovery efforts; however, these have been found to be primarily aimed at addressing the financial and economic impacts of the pandemic with minimal consideration for addressing the psychological impacts of the pandemic. This study aimed at evaluating the current state of individual psychological well-being of individuals working in the tourism and hospitality industries in South Africa. Given the broad nature of the psychological well-being construct, attempts to evaluate it in the work context have proved difficult. Hence it is for this reason that this study evaluated psychological well-being with reference to the experience of work engagement and burnout, as these constructs have been conceptualised as indicators of psychological well-being. Therefore individual psychological well-being was assessed through the exploration of the potential relationships between various job characteristics and the experience of work engagement and burnout. The sample consisted of 65 participants from organisations within the tourism and hospitality industries in South Africa. Participants were required to complete a questionnaire that comprised of a demographic information section, the Job-Demands Resources Scale (JDRS), the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Health Services Survey (MBI-HSS), and the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9). The results generated indicated the presence of significant, weak to moderate relationships between the variables of interest, with few exceptions. Furthermore, the significant regression models generated by the analysis provided insight into the relative contributions of the chosen job characteristics to the experience of work engagement and burnout. The results were discussed within the broader literature on the concepts of job demands and job resources, and the experience of work engagement and burnout.
Experiences of Thabazimbi Resident Mine Employees Regarding the Perceived Effects of Mining Activities within their Community. The case of Amandelbult Mine in Limpopo, South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-09) Ditshego, Mashiatshiti Johanna; Dube, Nkosiyazi
South Africa’s mining industry has historically been at the heart of the nation’s economy also taking into consideration the country’s high-ranking spot as one of the leading naturally rich resource countries within the world. In reality, the mining industry has played a key part in contributing to the country’s economic growth, and it remains South Africa’s most watched financial segment. However, the mining industry has experienced a major turmoil, since it also brings along socially unintended circumstances within the communities that they operate in, for example an increase of informal settlement, spontaneous mine closures, and the perpetuation of fights inside traditional houses. As much as there are several studies done within the South African mining sector, studies looking into the experiences and perceived effects of mining activities in communities where these mining companies operate are very limited within the South African literature in Occupational Social Work. Therefore, this qualitative study sought to close this gap, as it aims to explore the experiences of Thabazimbi Resident Mine Employees Regarding the Perceived Effects of Mining Activities within their Community. The study was qualitative in nature, with a case study used as the research design. The target population was mine employees residing in Thabazimbi. Purposive sampling was used to recruit (10) mine employees and (2) key informants in the community to be participants for the study, with a semi-structured interview guide employed as a research instrument. Data for the study was collected using face-to-face individual interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the findings. Findings indicate that mining activities had both positive and negative experiences for the resident employees. Thabazimbi resident employees suggested some recommendations that can be implemented to mitigate the negative effects that they raised in the findings. Recommendations are made in relation future research.
Understanding the experiential intersections of violence, gender identities and mental health, in the accounts of male parolees, in Gauteng, South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-03-15) Kallenbach, Jessica Jade; Bowman, Brett
Imprisonment in South Africa has been categorized by untold hardships and suffering. Some of the major factors which influence life in correctional centres in South Africa, are embedded within violence, gender identities and mental health. These three constructs – violence, gender identities and mental health – appear embedded within the logic of the correctional centre regime. Thus, to understand the entirety of an offender’s experience during incarceration, it is necessary to investigate the intersections of violence, gender identities and mental health. This was achieved using a qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological approach to centre on the participants’ experiences. This research consisted of six semi-structured face-to-face interviews with male parolees at Zonderwater Correctional Community Centre. The interviews were based on a self-developed questions derived from research by Akhona (2014), Bantjes et al. (2017), Celinska and Sung (2014) and Gear and Ngubeni (2002). The interview questions were open-ended and focused on the participants’ subjective meanings, understandings and experiences regarding the dynamic intersection of violence, gender identities and mental health in South African correctional centres. The findings of this research revealed that the exposure to and involvement in violent acts are inextricably related to the fundamental deprivations that offenders are subjected to and the associated “pains of imprisonment”. This revelation demonstrated the negotiation of gender that takes place within these confines, making acts of sexual assault and violence deemed more acceptable. In navigating this system of violence and gender identity negotiations, the findings of this study illustrated the emotional and mental impact that this environment has on offenders. This highlighted the pertinent need for the Department of Correctional Centres (DCS) to address current gaps in the rehabilitation models they use. These gaps could account for the recidivism rate in South Africa. It is clear that the intersection of violence, gender identities and mental health play an influential role in determining the reported experiences of offenders. The study thus has the potential to contribute to policies, by illustrating that a multi-layered approach to rehabilitation is required.
COVID-19 and children who experience special educational needs: Caregivers’ experiences, coping strategies, and support needs.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-05) Fernandes, Jenna; Amod, Zaytoon
Every aspect of parenting becomes magnified when caring for a child who experiences special educational needs, especially during a pandemic. Despite the wide recognition that the pandemic intensified existing stressors for caregivers of children who experience special educational needs as indicated by reports of significant declines in mental health, there is a scarcity of research exploring caregivers’ experiences during the pandemic, and especially within the South African context. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the experiences of South African caregivers, their available support structures, coping strategies, and support needs. An exploratory qualitative research design was employed, in which twelve caregivers of children who experience special educational needs participated in semi structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, and subsequently, the researcher developed five intersecting themes and fourteen subthemes. Notably, the five themes were, “exhausted to the bone”, twice as isolated, finding the light in the dark, soldiering on and learning to cope, and a wish for change and advocacy. Critically, the results of the research study suggest that despite the difficulties experienced by caregivers, there were opportunities for growth and development. However, there is a deep desire for there to be more understanding and tolerance of differences.
From Fatherlessness to fatherhood: Experiences of adult Black South African men in the Gauteng Province.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Senwamadi, Jacob Ramasoane Makgoane John; Matee, Hopolang
This study aimed to explore the experiences of Black South African first-time fathers who grew up without their biological fathers, as well as how these men perceive their fathers’ absence to have influenced their experiences of fatherhood. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with five Black first-time fathers between the ages of 25-30. The study followed a qualitative explorative design where the participants were recruited using purposive sampling. The findings of the study revealed that some of the first-time fathers had known their biological fathers’ identities during childhood even though they were not physically or financially present in their lives. Furthermore, they did not form any close relationship with them. The participants reported to have experienced rejection from their fathers while growing up. There was a common thread amongst the participants with regards to the need to feel accepted by their biological fathers. This appeared to be a powerful motivational basis for the men’s’ interpersonal experiences. The experience of rejection in childhood has been found to have many negative effects on an individual’s development later in life. This includes increased aggression, increased internalising of difficulties in adolescence, and psychopathological symptoms in adulthood. It has also been found that individuals with this experience are more likely to hold distorted mental representations that could lead to perceiving rejection and hostility in interpersonal relationships, and to further interpret relationships as being untrustworthy and unpredictable. What the participants experienced in this study is consistent with what has been reported in psychoanalytic literature; fatherhood is defined in connection to the father's function in the Oedipus complex where his function as an intrapsychic construct, also known as the "internal father," and their involvement in child development. It was concluded that in post-apartheid South Africa, numerous factors such as high levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality are amongst the major determinants of family disruptions particularly among the Black people. The situation is exacerbated by the burden of HIV/AIDS and violence-related mortality. The family and parental practices have been significantly affected leaving so many children growing up without biological fathers, either through rejection or premature death.
Psychological wellbeing, Organisational support, and Job Satisfaction in Aviaition professionals in South Africa.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-05) Mohottalalage, Isira Jayamanna; Donald, Fiona
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the aviation industry, introducing new stressors for employees. This study examined relationships between psychological wellbeing, organizational support, and job satisfaction among 38 South African aviation professionals during the post-pandemic recovery period. Quantitative survey data was analysed using correlational and multiple regression techniques. Results revealed positive associations between organizational support, psychological wellbeing, and job satisfaction. In the multiple regression model, organizational support emerged as the strongest predictor, explaining over a quarter of variance in job satisfaction (β = .52, p < .001). This highlights its crucial buffering capacity amid acute pressures. Psychological wellbeing also exhibited a robust positive relationship with job satisfaction (β = .43, p < .01), emphasizing the importance of personal resources and positive appraisals for fulfilling work. Together, organizational support and psychological wellbeing significantly predicted job satisfaction, indicating their joint salience. Findings align with the job demands-resources model, with organizational and personal resources helping mitigate pandemic-related demands to sustain satisfaction and performance. Practical implications point to investing in supportive cultures, mental health provisions, and work-life balance policies to alleviate COVID-related strains as aviation companies rebuild. 4 However, limitations including the small sample size warrant caution in generalizing results. Addressing methodological constraints through expanded samples, longitudinal tracking, qualitative data, controlled experiments, and cross-national comparisons offers critical directions for subsequent research on optimizing occupational wellness in aviation during post pandemic transitions.
Teachers’ Psychological Transformation from the use of Corporal Punishment to Alternative Disciplinary Measures in South African Schools.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kau, Irish; Mayise, Simangele
South Africa has a history of violence, originating from the previous apartheid regime. This includes violence in private and public settings such as in the home, school and neighbourhood. One of the positive socio-political changes introduced by the new democratic government was the abolition of corporal punishment in schools. However, the delay in empowering teachers with alternative means to corporal punishment had an impact on discipline in schools that is still prevalent to this day. Teachers believe that their power to discipline learners has been curtailed, and they therefore find it difficult to maintain a culture of teaching and learning in schools. The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate teachers’ psychological transformation from the use of corporal punishment to positive disciplinary measures. The main aim of the current study was to explore teachers’ understanding of alternatives to corporal punishment (ATCP) in South African primary schools. The study adopted a qualitative approach, with data being collected through a biographical questionnaire, individual and focused group in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews, and document analysis. Data was analysed through thematic analysis. The ethical principles adhered to were informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality and non-maleficence. Cultural-historical activity theory was employed as a theoretical lens to further explore the teachers’ mental shifts from the use of corporal punishment to ATCP. Findings suggest that teachers perceive positive discipline as viable with the collective effort of parents, teachers, learners and the larger community. Despite the historicity and internalisation of corporal punishment by teachers, fear of incarceration, fear of dismissal from work, and the abhorrence of violence, necessitated a mental shift. Contradictions between private and public use of disciplinary measures were illuminated as a threat to the effective implementation of ATCP in schools.
A Systematic Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis of the Cognitive Performance of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Barnard, Helen; Vorster, Adri
Autism Spectrum Disorder, which includes previous diagnostic terms such as Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder and High Functioning Autism, is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by persistent deficits in social communication, difficulties in interaction across multiple contexts, difficulties in non-verbal communicative behaviours, and the exhibition of unusual behaviours. Given that Autism Spectrum Disorder is a spectrum disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder individuals experience different degrees of signs and symptoms. Given the nature of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the differing levels of severity, individuals also present with varying cognitive capabilities and subsequently cognitive abilities (strengths and weaknesses) when assessed on individual intelligence measures such as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, which has been revised multiple times since its inception in 1949. The purpose of this research study is to investigate the cognitive performance of Autism Spectrum Disorder children assessed on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. First, a systematic review was conducted of available literature and research studies focused on the cognitive performance of Autism Spectrum Disorder children who have been assessed on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, followed by a meta-analysis to investigate the extent to which the performance differences observed between Autism Spectrum Disorder children and typically developing peers, when measured on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, is meaningful. Although a systematic review of 49 published research studies was undertaken, the meta-analysis included only 12 studies which focused on comparing the cognitive performance of Autism Spectrum Disorder and typically developing children. The results revealed that children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism performed the highest on the Perceptual Reasoning Index and the lowest on the Processing Speed Index. Although limited data are available on individuals diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder, they performed the highest on the Perceptual Organisation Index and the lowest on the Verbal Comprehension Index. The results also revealed that when taking into account all the diagnostic terms used, Autism Spectrum Disorder children performed the highest on the Block Design subtest, followed by the Similarities subtest. They performed the lowest on the Coding subtest, followed by the Comprehension subtest. The meta-analysis revealed that the means and standard deviation differences found among the various Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children indices between Autism Spectrum Disorder and typically developing children revealed that the typically developing children who participated in the various studies iii performed higher than Autism Spectrum Disorder children across all the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children indices except for the following: The High Functioning Autism children obtained a slightly higher mean Full-Scale IQ score than typically developing peers, with a higher mean Verbal Comprehension Index found on the part of the High Functioning Autism children. There is practical value in supporting Autism Spectrum Disorder children to reach their potential and minimising the impact of their diagnosis, as well as its accompanying difficulties on their scholastic progress and performance.
Experiences of Gender Roles in Young Adults Living in Soweto
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-11) Mdunge, Fundiswa Rejoice Lucia; Patel, Ruby
The study explores the more contemporary meanings and experiences of gender roles which have been developed by young adults over the years in their small-lived, contemporary experiences within Soweto. The study draws on in-depth interviews conducted with six young adult men and women and is carried out using a qualitative design. In exploring the topic of gender roles, normative patterns of change were identified which can contribute to the future discourse of gender role development. These normative patterns of change were attributed to ecological influences from the individual, their family, and their local and international communities, as well as intersectional influences which were identified as also playing a role in the participants’ experiences of gender. The study reveals participants’ experiences which are related to themes of gendered social pressures and socialisation, generational experiences of traditional and non-traditional gender roles, gendered divides and harmful gender stereotypes, gender identity conflicts in the ecological system, social ostracisation, issues of adultification, and views on patriarchal gendered ideologies and the maternal gatekeepers of these ideologies. The participants’ stories reveal fractures in their contemporary gender role ideology and their gender role development during their upbringing. Despite these fractures, they express hopes to develop gender role experiences which incorporate both traditionally socialised gender roles and non-traditionally developed understandings of gender and gender roles in their future adult years, as a means to create their own personal gendered experiences based on their exposure to different ecological environments.
The Audiological Profile of Singers’ and Musicians’ in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Flowers, Aimee Lee; Pillay, Dhanashree
Introduction: Excessive exposure to loud music is shown to have a negative impact on hearing, necessitating studies that explore the impact of music on the audiological profile of musicians and singers. The tonotopic arrangement of the cochlea plays an important role in the perception of music. Audiological testing can provide insight into the functioning of the auditory system of musicians and singers and it can provide information about the possible noise/music induced impact of music on the auditory system. The rationale for this study was to fill in the gaps in knowledge pertaining to the effects of noise/music induced hearing loss on musicians and singers in South Africa Methodology: The study aimed to document the audiological profile of musicians and singers in South Africa. The participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. The study consisted of 57 participants. The age range was 13 years to 75 years of age. The design of the study was exploratory and data were collected via a case history questionnaire and a diagnostic audiological investigation. The data were analysed using qualitative and quantitative analyses. Results: Music induced hearing loss (MIHL) is present among musicians and singers however, age and years of experience are influential factors in this result. The results of the current study indicated that 88% of the participants did not use HPDs for various reasons such as stigma or lack of awareness. Participants showed knowledge related to ear cleaning and high noise levels, however, there was a lack of insight into the importance and good ear hygiene practices. Fifty-one participants indicated that there is a need for the implementation of programs to inform the general public about good ear hygiene. The results of the diagnostic audiological testing indicated age was a significant factor in relation to pure tone thresholds and distortion product otoacoustic emissions(DPOAEs). Noise notches were evident at 3000Hz and 6000Hz and correlated with both the pure tone threshold and DPOAE results. The DPOAE results indicated that being a professional singer was also a significant factor. Conclusion: The current study highlights the effects of music on the auditory system. The effects of music can be detrimental to a musician and singer’s hearing, and the incorrect ear care can have devastating effects for performers. Therefore, the need 7 for the implementation of programs to educate musicians and singers about ear hygiene, the correct ear hygiene practices and the effects of music on the audiological system as well as the correct way to mitigate these effects is imperative.
Caregiver experiences of Attachment and Bonding Practices in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Gauteng, South Africa.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Prinsloo, Engela Maria; Neill, Joanne; Sawasawa, Cynthia
Background: Infant attachment and bonding are crucial within the early post-natal period to ensure a secure and healthy relationship from which the infant can explore the world thereby allowing for the development of a variety of skills. Context and culture are known to influence attachment and bonding practices. Then considering the challenging Neonatal Intensive Care Unit environment it is crucial to explore how this environment might influence attachment and bonding with a specific focus on context and culture. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the experiences of caregivers regarding attachment and bonding practices in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in central Gauteng, South Africa. Methods: A qualitative design was used to explore caregiver experiences around attachment and bonding practices concerning context and culture in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. An advertisement was posted on online forums for caregivers in South Africa who have had infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Non-probability, purposive sampling and snowball sampling was used to collect data. Both in-person and remote semi-structured interviews took place and were used to collect data. Thematic analysis was used as data analysis. Results: The following themes and subthemes were identified; the act of mothering in the NICU (with subthemes loneliness and disempowerment of caregivers, the emotional roller coaster ride, and the need for psychological/emotional support), Culture in the NICU (with subthemes care in the NICU, the influence of culture and caring for a baby in the NICU, and limited information-giving practices in the NICU), and a Sense of missing out (with subthemes unexpected pre-term birth, feeling estranged, and the tension between society’s image and the reality of having a baby in the NICU). While context and culture influence attachment practices amongst caregivers, in the case of an infant being admitted to the NICU, these practices do not take precedence, but rather the health of the infant. Implications: Methodological recommendations include alternative sampling and data collection methods than online advertised snowball sampling that allow for a larger and more diverse sample size. Policy and practice recommendations for NICUs include improving accessibility to psychological support services and orientating information on the NICU for caregivers.
Patterns of Relationship Difficulties: A Retrospective Study amongst Older Jewish Adults In South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Porter, Emma Michelle; Graham, Tanya
This research study employed a qualitative methodology to explore the retrospective experiences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among older Jewish South Africans. Undertaking a phenomenological approach, the objective was to examine how this unique demographic group specifically navigated childhood experiences of parental abuse and neglect. The investigation extended to exploring the participants’ experiences of various relationships over their lifespans and identifying environmental factors contributing to these experiences. Through semi-structured interviews with 9 Jewish South Africans aged between 60 and 80, the study sought to elucidate their experiences and their subsequent meaning-making processes. Employing thematic analysis, five principal themes emerged: Parental Abuse and Neglect in Childhood; Family Dynamics; Experiences of Familial Relationships through the Lifespan; Experiences of Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Relationships through the Lifespan; and Adaptation within the Ecological Systems. The findings revealed intriguing phenomena and patterns, shedding light on the nuanced aspects of post-adversity development. Shared themes of unhealthy and conflictual relationships arose, as well as repeated patterns of harsh or reactive parenting behaviours. However, many participants spoke about changing the patterns that they learned in their childhoods and experiencing and creating positive and supportive relationships with spouses, friends, or their own children. Aspects of the participants contexts were seen as potentially contributing to these positive changes, such as religion and spirituality, access to activities and hobbies, and the influences of the broader family and community. This research contributes to the knowledge bases of ACEs, generational trauma, and minority religions in a non-Western context, specifically within the framework of older Jewish South Africans. The conclusions and inevitable limitations of the study give rise to recommendations for future research, emphasising the need to delve deeper into uncovered phenomena and expand beyond the traditionally Western-centric theories that were utilised.
The Impact of Severe Mental Illness on Mothering: Perceptions of Clinical Psychologists
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Walton, Emily; Harvey, Clare
A large portion of adult women who suffer from severe mental illness (SMI) are mothers. Unfortunately, mothers with SMI have historically been considered as incapable of caring for their children. The impact that SMI has on mothering, particularly in the South African context, remains underexplored in literature. In particular, the perceptions of individuals working therapeutically with these groups have been largely neglected and overlooked. This exploratory study had a dual focus which was both to draw attention to the impact that SMI can have on mothering and the mothering identity, and to explore the perceptions and experiences of clinical psychologists working with these individuals. This study followed a qualitative research approach underpinned by the interpretivist design in order to address the aims of the research and answer the research questions. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select a sample of seven clinical psychologists who have experience working with mothers with SMI. In order to generate the data, semi-structured interviews guided by an interview schedule were employed, and a thematic approach to data analysis was utilised. As a theoretical framework, the Grounded Theory of the Psychological Experience of Mothering (Barlow & Cairns, 1997) was drawn on, in conjunction with relevant psychoanalytic theories, to guide the research methods, data analysis and presentation and discussion of findings. The impact of SMI on mothering and the mothering identity is intricately interweaved with contextual factors, as well as the internal and intrapersonal processes that occur in the individual mother. The findings revealed the complex and nuanced nature of this phenomenon, and the duality that is present in the identity of the mother, as well as the psychologist, which has to be negotiated in treatment. The unique South African context introduces further complexities which have to be both managed by psychologists and mothers with SMI.
Exploring the Constructions of Masculinity of Unemployed Young Black Men from Mamelodi
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sibanyoni, Dineo Naomi-Beth; Graham, Tanya
Although masculinity has been widely explored internationally and in local academic research, there are still gaps in understanding the constructions of masculinity with regards to young men’s experiences of unemployment in impoverished areas. This research explores constructions of masculinity among young unemployed black men living in the township of Mamelodi, in Gauteng. The particular focus is on understanding their perceptions of employment and the provider role within their conceptualisations of hegemonic masculinity. With this understanding, their ideas around how these constructions obstruct or enhance their psychosocial life experiences can be better understood. The research used qualitative research design to yield more rich and detailed data. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were utilised to recruit eight participants to share their experiences. The participants were young unemployed black men between the ages of 18 and 35 years of age, making up the criteria needed to make up the sample. The theoretical framework that the study uses to support and understand the phenomena was the social constructionist view of masculinity. The data collecting method was semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was then used to analyse the data. The main themes identified in the analysis were Proactivity, Dreams and Hopes, Unemployment, Masculinity and Culture, and Obstacles and Persistence. The findings indicated that the experience of being a young unemployed black male has an impact on how these men see themselves in relation to the social expectations of men fulfilling the provider role in their environment. This was seen to also influence their psychosocial lives. Through the findings, an exploration of the resistance to show full expressions of emotions that occur with this particular group of people can also be observed.
A Systematic Review Examining the use of Neurofeedback as an Intervention in the Management of Burnout
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-05-30) Patron, Daniella; Besharati, Sahba; Beukes, Johanna
Background: Burnout is highly prevalent and has a long-lasting impact on health and well-being. However, a lack of formal diagnosis and standardised definition criteria has resulted in vague measurement standards and uncertainty regarding appropriate interventions. Neurofeedback training has shown the potential to modulate patterns of stress and produce long -lasting changes in the brain. However, the efficacy of neurofeedback training and its application to burnout is still in question. Work related stress is highly prevalent and has a serious and long-lasting impact on health and well-being. One ‘occupational phenomenon’ known as burnout has affected people in a multitude of professions and across a variety of societal domains. However, burnout is not currently recognised as a formal diagnosis and has no universally applied definition criteria. Aim: This systematic review aimed to determine if neurofeedback training is an appropriate intervention for the management of burnout. The secondary aim of the study was to evaluate the methodological, procedures and practical standards by which the neurofeedback training intervention was implemented as well as how the various burnout measures and populations were represented. Methods: This review (pre-registered on PROSPERO CRD42023448860) adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Six databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, ProQuest, PsycINFO and Ebscohost) and one search engine (Google Scholar) were searched according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Exclusion criteria: unpublished material, studies published before 2003, published in languages other than English, comorbidities with other disorders, use of other EEG interventions, no mention of burnout characteristics. Findings: The search strategy yielded a total of N = 6 studies included in the final review. Study results showed neurofeedback training improved negative characteristics associated with burnout, especially when combined with other intervention methods. However, vag ueness and omission were found in most study designs and intervention protocols with inconsistent burnout measures and sampling bias. Conclusion: In conclusion, neurofeedback training has shown the potential for managing certain burnout characteristics. However, due to the inconsistent study designs and vague methodological protocols, it remains uncertain whether it is entirely effective as an intervention for burnout. Thus, there is a need for more studies to be conducted in this area with the employment of stringent and standardised study designs, clearer reporting of methodological protocols, universally applied burnout definitions and regulated measures, more ethnically diverse samples, and a focus on more representative populations from diverse domains other than adults in healthcare professions
The effects of listening to music on positive affect and negative affect, after acute stress exposure.
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mertsch, Dane Jordan; Jordan, Dane
In today’s world, the negative effects from daily acute stressors have become more and more of a concern impacting the general health and well-being of individuals across the world. The aim of the current study was to see whether listening to music had an effect on positive affect and negative affect, after acute stress exposure. Previous literature has shown that there is a mixture of findings within the research, with some research studies finding evidence suggesting listening to music may help with stress recovery; however, other research studies have found evidence suggesting it may be too soon to conclude that listening to music helps with stress recovery due to the non-significant results. A quantitative longitudinal experiment with elements of between and within groups design was conducted to investigate whether listening to music would increase positive affect and decrease negative affect, following acute stress exposure. Participants underwent a stress induction task and were randomly assigned to one of the three listening conditions (self-selected music group, researcher-selected music group, and an ambient sound group). Participants self-reported positive affect and negative affect levels were recorded after both the stressor task (time 1) and the listening condition (time 2). Two mixed model ANOVAs were run to see whether listening to music increased participants positive affect and decreased their negative affect, after acute stress exposure. The results from the mixed-model ANOVAs were non significant indicating insufficient evidence to support this hypothesis. Further research on this important topic is required in order to help clarify the current conflicting results found in the literature.
Trainee psychologists’ experiences of professional development during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-08) Baloyi, Cindy; Jithoo, Vinitha
The declaration of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in March 2020 resulted in unprecedented and transformational effects on professional psychology programs. Professional psychology programs were confronted with several legal, practical, and ethical challenges associated with delivering appropriate training while also ensuring the safety of trainees, supervisors, and clients. An emergency remote teaching and supervision plan was launched to mitigate these challenges. However, the online platforms were a foreign territory for most trainees and trainers and required familiarisation before mastery. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of trainee psychologists’ professional development during the COVID-19 pandemic in South African universities. The current study was also undertaken to explore trainees’ experiences of online practical work. Participants in this study were distinctive because they were the first cohort of professional trainees to be exclusively trained online. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of twelve intern psychologists. Subsequently, the data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings suggested that only the delivery mode in which learning and teaching took place changed, but the curriculum remained the same. However, the change in delivery had implications for trainees’ mental health, academic goals and expectations. Trainees reported initial anxiety and uncertainty associated with the unknown use of online platforms. Despite support from the university and their lecturers, they noted challenges related to constant academic changes that were implemented on a trial-and-error basis, studying from home in suboptimal environments, managing home and work balance, and counselling clients in a new and different therapeutic framework. Psychological assessments and community work were difficult to adapt to online platforms. In addition to the challenges faced, however, there were unexpected opportunities that positively impacted trainees’ learning and acquisition of profession-wide competencies.
Parental Experiences and Perceptions of their Child’s Remedial School’s Interventions and Collaborative Engagement
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-03) Mawoyo, Chantelle Chioniso; Amod, Zaytoon
The study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of parents in South Africa in relation to the interventions that their children receive within the remedial school setting to address their specialised learning needs. Further, this research investigated the parents’ collaborative engagement with teachers and professionals within these remedial schools and explored how their experiences can be improved. This qualitative exploratory study used semi-structured interviews to collect data. Eight parents of children currently placed in remedial schools in South Africa participated in this study. The findings of the study indicate that majority of the remedial parents’ experiences differed based on whether it was a private or public remedial school. Parents in private remedial schools reported receiving more support from the teachers and other professionals in the remedial schools as opposed to public remedial schools. Sufficient resources and consistent collaborative engagement were highlighted by the parents as necessities and significant factors that directly impacted their experiences of the remedial interventions put in place to address their children’s specialized learning needs. There was a gap in collaborative engagement where parents found themselves lacking effective communication from the remedial schools due to a lack of remedial resources. There were also gaps in collaborative engagement between parents and the schools as multidimensional factors relating to parental support we not successfully met by all teachers and professionals. Lastly, COVID-19 resulted in parents having an added load of doing more remedial work with their children at home. In addition, COVID-19 made some remedial interventions difficult to be successfully carried out.

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