bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Implications of Apartheid Legacies in South African Correctional Centres
Authors: Hoffman Sandra M.
Published: March 2013

I conducted critical research into the apparently unrelenting culture of violation in South Africa generally, and specifically in correctional centres. In defining violation, I slightly modify Fanon's definition of violence to encompass “any relation, process or condition by which an individual, organisation or group violates the physical, social and/or psychological integrity of [the self and] another person or group”. I show that the authoritarian ideology underlying apartheid left structural legacies that undermine rehabilitation and transformation to a culture of mutual respect at interpersonal and institutional levels. I do so by contrasting some extant authoritarian indicators: top-down discipline and militarism, with indicators of mutual recognition and respect to show that both safety and rehabilitation are compromised by unnecessary perpetuation of authoritarian ideology in correctional centres. Critically questioning the traditional top-down structure and substituting mutuality as crucial to rehabilitation necessarily called for the application of theoretical assumptions consistent with intersubjectivity. I use a person-in-practice method whereby I juxtapose my own voice with those of clients, academics, society (as represented in the news media) and staff in the correctional system. This method streamlines as a coherent process, and an effective means to demonstrate my thesis.
The Relationship between Thinking Styles and Emotional Intelligence: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Murphy A. , Janeke H.C.
Published: March 2013

In this study we explore the association between thinking styles and emotional intelligence. Participants ( N = 309) completed Sternberg's Thinking Styles Inventory (TSI) and the Schutte Self-Report Inventory (SSRI) for emotional intelligence. Statistical analysis of the scores of the participants on the two instruments indicates that there is an overlap between the TSI and the SSRI, and suggests that they measure similar constructs. The results show that thinking styles are significant predictors of emotional intelligence and that participants who have high emotional intelligence prefer more complex and creative thinking styles.
That Strange Thing Called ‘Identifying’
Authors: Olivier Bert
Published: March 2013

Is the act of looking unavoidably accompanied by an act of identification (identifying), firstly in the sense of identifying a subject, and secondly of identifying objects as enduring? Identification of objects is here understood as the (unconscious) attribution of enduring identity or substantial sameness to objects in the human world, and of subjects as the experience or awareness of a relatively enduring identity or selfhood on the part of a human being. The exploration is taken in the direction of the structural dynamics of the ‘act of identifying’. Here the work of mainly Lacan, Nancy, Kant, Silverman and Kierkegaard (and to a lesser extent, that of Husserl and Deleuze) is employed to clarify the various aspects of ‘identifying’ with someone or something. This includes Lacan's ‘mirror stage’ in conjunction with his early elaboration on aggressivity, as well as his register of the symbolic as the repository of ethical norms, Nancy's phenomenology of the image, Kant's notions of apperception, of the empirical and the transcendental self, Silverman's understanding of desire, and Kierkegaard's different models of the self, namely, the aesthetic and the ethical. Employing the theoretical lenses referred to above, the focus is shifted towards an illuminating instance of visual and linguistic (imaginary and symbolic) viewer identification in cinema to be able to elaborate on the theoretical work in question, namely, Minghella's The Talented Mr Ripley. An interpretive analysis of this film reveals that the reason why identifying visually and symbolically with a protagonist in a cinematic narrative becomes painfully and uncomfortably apparent to a viewer when such protagonists unexpectedly perform unconscionable actions, is related to the primary and secondary identifications at the imaginary and symbolic levels, especially regarding the ethical import of the latter.
Humour in Gestalt Therapy — Curative Force and Catalyst for Change: A Case Study
Authors: Jacobs Susanne
Published: March 2013

I report on the findings of a study into the use of humour in therapy, which forms part of ongoing attempts to identify new ways in which to enhance therapy towards a positive experience for both client and therapist. In contrast to the many clinical papers that deal with the patient's inability to cry and mourn, few discuss the inability to laugh or use wit and humour. Most research points to this behaviour as a maladaptive response and uses humour for developmental assessment. In contrast, this exploratory article describes a single case, where the client revealed a habitually resisted contact through deflection and where she moved from a denial state to full awareness to emotional wellness through the use of humour techniques. Furthermore, it is argued that humour can be taught and used constructively as a coping mechanism in potentially harmful situations. In addition, humour can create awareness with the client, therapist and other users to improve humour capabilities.
Stress-Induced Impairment of Spatial Navigation in Females
Authors: Thomas Kevin G.F. , Laurance Holly E. , Nadel Lynn , Jacobs W. Jake
Published: March 2013

Earlier work predicted that the physiological effects of an acute stressor disrupt a neurological system underlying cognitive-map (CM) guided navigation, but leave intact systems underlying landmark (LM) guided navigation. This prediction has been only partially confirmed. Furthermore, no-one has investigated sex differences in the relations between acute stress and spatial navigation, even though stress affects verbal memory and decision-making performance of males and females differently. We administered the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), a standardized laboratory procedure designed to induce mild psychosocial stress, to 15 healthy undergraduates to examine the effects of acute stress on CM- and LM-guided navigation in men and women. They, and a demographically matched control group of 14 undergraduates, completed a virtual environment navigation task. Exposure to the TSST disrupted CM-guided (but not LM-guided) navigation in women, but affected neither in men. The data partially support the previous work, and offer novel findings regarding the relative vulnerability to acute psychosocial stress of CM-based navigation in females.
Emotional Intelligence: An Integral Part of Positive Psychology
Authors: Bar-On Reuven
Published: March 2013

Both “emotional intelligence” and “positive psychology” are rapidly becoming very visible, popular and important areas within psychology. This article suggests that emotional intelligence should be considered an integral part of positive psychology. Empirical findings are presented that support this notion in addition to examining the way both disciplines have been described, defined and conceptualised over the past decade. This approach to categorising emotional intelligence is one way of justifying where it should be placed within the field of psychology. In light of the fact that the current article addresses this issue directly and based on the specific approach which is applied, it is hoped that this publication will represent a useful contribution to the literature.
Perceptions of Registered Counsellor Efficacy
Authors: Elkonin Diane S. , Sandison Alida
Published: March 2013

The registration category of the Registered Counsellor has resulted in on ongoing debate regarding the training and efficacy of these practitioners in the delivery of psychological services. Although the category has been in existence for some years there is little evidence that the category is fulfilling the purpose for which it was developed, namely, to supply psychological services at a primary health-care level. Our aim in this article is to explore the roles that registered counsellors play in their practicum placements, in order to better understand and to provide evidence of the practical value of the skills and expertise that they can offer in a variety of settings. Through the use of semi-structured questionnaires, in face to face and telephone surveys, 15 supervisors were interviewed to obtain their perceptions and experiences of the efficacy of the registered counsellors and the role that registered counsellor trainees play in their different placement settings. Findings were extremely positive in terms of the perceived value of the registered counsellor across a variety of settings.
Comparing Native Signing, Late-Signing and Orally Trained Deaf Children's ‘Theory of Mind’ Abilities
Authors: van Staden Annalene
Published: March 2013

I argue that language skills and social interaction, specifically quality social discourse (reciprocal interaction) concerning mental states are pivotal in the development of social understanding and ‘theory of mind’ development. Thus, this research is grounded and positioned within the theories of social constructivism. Theory of mind' development in relation to language acquisition, social interaction and the assessment of ‘false-belief’ is presented. In addition, the advantage that Sign Language offers in the early years of a deaf child's life is clearly demonstrated, by comparing the performance of native signing deaf children with deaf parents and late-signing and orally trained deaf children of hearing parents on different ‘false-belief’ tasks. In contrast to deaf children of hearing parents, deaf children who have deaf parents, are provided with natural access and exposure to Sign Language. As a result, native signing deaf children demonstrate developmental benchmarks in ‘theory of mind’ acquisition similar to typical developing hearing children.
Personality Styles of Patients with Bipolar Disorder: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Laher Sumaya , Rebolo Carla
Published: March 2013

The relationship that exists between personality and bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex one with numerous published studies yielding conflicting results. Thus we intended to ascertain whether a relationship exists between personality and bipolar disorder in a South African sample of 23 bipolar individuals. The MCMI-III was used to confirm the diagnosis of BD and to measure personality styles. A significant relationship between bipolar disorder and the following personality styles was found: avoidant, passive-aggressive, antisocial and depressive. A significant relationship between BD and debasement was also found. No significant gender differences were found for the personality styles. These results are discussed in the light of research on BD and personality.
The Relationship between the Big Five Personality Traits and Burnout in South African University Students
Authors: Morgan Brandon , de Bruin Karina
Published: March 2013

Research on burnout has tended to explore the organisational factors associated with this condition. However, an important factor that is often overlooked is the relationship between burnout and personality. We explored this relationship in South African university students. The participants completed the Basic Traits Inventory — Short, the Maslach Burnout Inventory — Student Survey and a biographical questionnaire. The results revealed several significant relationships between personality traits and burnout with personality explaining a sizeable degree of variance in burnout. Neuroticism, Extroversion and Conscientiousness demonstrated a relationship with all three burnout constructs (emotional exhaustion, cynicism and professional efficacy). Personality traits explained 13% of the variance in emotional exhaustion, 12.8% of the variance in cynicism and 24.8% of the variance in professional efficacy.
Friendship in Socially Isolating Work Environments
Authors: Milner Karen , Russell Jennifer , Siemers Ian
Published: March 2013

Our aim was to assess the relationship between workplace friendship and organisational commitment in the call centre environment. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used to collect the data. Three call centres within a South African financial institution were sampled. Self-report questionnaires were distributed in order to obtain quantitative data, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with call centre operators. The results of the quantitative analyses revealed a positive relationship between workplace friendship and organisational commitment in two of the three call centres. From the qualitative analysis, four themes were identified: the alienating nature of call centre work resulting in lack of commitment to the call centres; high commitment to the financial institution in which the call centres were based; structural and managerial constraints on friendship formation; and agency, on the part of call centre operators to resist the structural and managerial constraints on friendship. The practical and theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
Obstacles to the Utilisation of Psychological Resources in a South African Township Community
Authors: Ruane Ilse
Published: March 2013

Attitudes and beliefs regarding the utilisation of psychological resources were explored among a group of black Africans of 18 years and older. Both males and females participated in focus groups that were conducted at Itsoseng Clinic on the Mamelodi Campus of the University of Pretoria. Discussion questions addressed participants' perceptions of psychologists and psychotherapy, barriers to seeking treatment and recommendations for improved service delivery. The focus group responses indicated that reasons for seeking treatment included HIV&AIDS, problems related to the participants' socioeconomic situation, relationship issues and educational problems (learning problems, career guidance and educational stress among tertiary learners). Key barriers to service utilisation included the stigma of mental illness, lack of knowledge, affordability of treatment, lack of trust, impersonal service and lack of cultural sensitivity. Participants discussed the issue of the psychologist's race, as they felt that many white psychologists lack sensitivity toward and knowledge of black communities. Participants further stated that black psychologists were not much better due to the acculturation that occurs during the training of black psychologists. Recommendations for more culturally sensitive services are suggested. The implications of these findings for the practice and profession of psychology are also examined.
Bipolar Mood Disorder in Children and Adolescents: In Search of Theoretic, Therapeutic and Diagnostic Clarity
Authors: Bradfield Bruce Christopher
Published: March 2013

I address early onset Bipolar Mood Disorder, exploring the ways in which the disorder manifests in the lives of children. Complications in current and past literature are clarified, and the dearth of substantive research into the area is noted. I clarify associated risk factors specific to paediatric bipolar disorder. A treatment procedure informed by cognitive-behavioural, narrative and family systems theories is proffered, and is considered in relation to the development of a pharmacological intervention. I highlight shortcomings in psychiatric interventions, and provide a framework for treatment which that takes into account the complex variety of needs which bipolar children present.
Effect of a Course in Research Methods on Scientific Thinking among Psychology Students
Authors: Kagee Ashraf , Allie Saalih , Lesch Anthea
Published: March 2013

This study followed a quasi-experimental design to determine the effect of a course in research methods on undergraduate students' ability to reason scientifically. Two classes of students in their first and second year of study were asked to participate in the study. The second year class ( n = 171) was taught a course in research methods, while the first year class ( n = 201) was taught a course in research methods. An instrument consisting of a series of vignettes was administered to all students at the beginning and at the end of the quarter in which these courses were taught. Total scores on the instrument were used to determine the extent of scientific thinking. Analysis of variance showed a non-significant difference between the groups at pretest and a significant difference ( p < 0.05) at post test. These results were interpreted to mean that the research methods course was responsible for increasing students' level of scientific thinking.
The Hidden Resilience of Street Youth
Authors: Malindi Macalane J. , Theron Linda C.
Published: March 2013

The phenomenon of resilience among street children as a group of at-risk youth goes unnoticed, since they are not typically regarded as resilient. Street children are mostly categorised as vulnerable youth who need care and support, and this deficit view ignores the assets and resources that enable them towards resilience. Nevertheless, street children are remarkably resilient. Using a qualitative approach (semi-structured and focus group interviews), we explore the hidden resilience of 20 street youths in the Free State and Gauteng. The findings transform the popular conceptualisation of street youth as vulnerable and, instead, paint a picture of young people who negotiate resilient trajectories, strengthened in part by personal resources (that are typically unconventional), bonds to their peer groups, and religiosity, to cope resiliency with the multiple challenges of streetism.
“Complex Trauma”: Reflections on the Effect of Early Childhood Abuse among a Small Adult Group of Bariatric Patients
Authors: Liebenberg Hermann , Papaikonomou Maria
Published: March 2013

The experience of early traumatic exposure, obesity and finally the paradoxical forced behavioural intervention experienced by a small group of five different participants (three women and two men) who underwent bariatric surgery1 to “cure” a chronic disease such as obesity, were explored and structured around the prominent themes identified by the researchers from the “voices” of the participants. The aim was to arrive at a final “voice” that would reflect collectively on their stories. The research question was based on the interrelationship between prolonged traumatic exposures, morbid obesity and whether bariatric surgery acts as a form of remedial intervention for this small group of participants suffering from morbid obesity. A qualitative research paradigm and social constructivist epistemology were supported by the exploratory case study design as a systematic way of collecting data, analysing information through a process of thematic content analysis and finally reporting the results. The delineation of the themes resulted in the following collective sub-themes: Obesity was the result of psychological defences against the impact of prolonged childhood trauma; the symptom constellation of Complex Trauma seems paramount among the participants of this study; and the remedial effect of bariatric surgery on these patients seems complementary to the relief of the impact of early childhood traumatisation. Incidental findings includes: amnesia regarding “good” periods during childhood; obesity creates an “invisible” perception by others of the obese person; to lose weight causes more back pain due to less bodily support by those who had suffered from back pains prior to surgery; while the occurrence of stomach pains after “stressful periods” could be viewed as an unexpected finding from this research group. The research question is based on the interrelationship between prolonged traumatic exposures, morbid obesity and whether the remedial forced behavioural intervention such as bariatric surgery acts as a form of remedial intervention for this small group of participants suffering from morbid obesity.
The Influence of The Family on Interracial Intimate Relationships in Post-Apartheid South Africa
Authors: Jaynes Claire
Published: March 2013

This study sought to identify and explore discourses on interracial intimate relationships, and to investigate their possible intersections with discourses on racism. Thompson's method of depth hermeneutics, of which critical discourse analysis is a component, was employed to analyse data generated by two focus group discussions and interviews with two heterosexual, interracial couples. The original study demonstrated the way in which discourses on interracial intimate relationships in post-apartheid South Africa intersect with discourses on race and racism. This article restricts its focus to how discourses related to the family were employed in order to deny, negate and justify opposition to interracial intimate relationships. The article ultimately demonstrates how the ideological construction of the family may be seen as maintaining a racially stratified South African society.
Intervention Groups for HIV-Infected Women: The Need for Additional Services
Authors: Eloff Irma , Forsyth Brian , Finestone Michelle , Ebersöhn Liesel , Visser Maretha , Ferreira Ronél , Boeving Alex , Sikkema Kathleen
Published: March 2013

The Kgolo Mmogo study is a randomised controlled intervention trial that examines the effectiveness of a group intervention to enhance resilience in HIV-infected South African mothers ( N = 427) and their young children ( N = 435). We describe here how the severity of psychological and social problems experienced by some of the study participants required referrals for other services and discuss the barriers encountered in facilitating such referrals. Over a 30-month period 54 mothers and 59 children were referred for additional support. For mothers, the most frequent reasons for referral related to domestic violence and problems within relationships, while for children the most common grounds for referral were the evaluation and treatment of behavioural problems and severe emotional disturbances, including depression. Eight children were referred for suspected abuse. Observations from the study demonstrate that current systems for referral are overloaded and that there is a paucity of specialised services available. Our experience suggests that participants may benefit from using the intervention as a first point of support and that psychosocial referrals should perhaps be delayed until functional advice is provided (within the group) on ways of accessing wider support effectively. The intervention may also benefit from the inclusion of an intervention team member who is specifically tasked to follow up on referrals. This includes follow-up for participants who were not included in the group intervention. Furthermore, we argue that socio-economic constraints, which often manifest as lack of mobility to access service delivery, can severely impact on the implementation of an intervention study in a developing context. This constraint is experienced in terms of limited access to experimental intervention groups and services from referrals.
The Relationship between Work-Family Enrichment and Work-Family Satisfaction Outcomes
Authors: Jaga Ameeta , Bagraim Jeffrey
Published: March 2013

In this study, we investigate the positive aspects of the interface between work and family by examining the relationship between work-family enrichment and work-family satisfaction outcomes. Employees ( N = 336) at a national retail chain completed a survey questionnaire. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that work-to-family enrichment explains a significant proportion of the variance in both job satisfaction and career satisfaction and that the affective component of family-to-work enrichment explains a significant proportion of the variance in family satisfaction. Implications for both work-family theory and management practice are discussed.
Intern Clinical Psychologists' Experiences of their Training and Internship Placements
Authors: Pillay Anthony L. , Johnston Emma R.
Published: March 2013

The study involved a mail survey of all 150 intern clinical psychologists registered with the HPCSA during the year 2009. A response rate of 55.3% was achieved with a representative provincial distribution. The results indicated that 34.9% of the respondents felt adequately prepared for the internship and 53% felt only partly prepared, while 53% considered the training to be relevant and 31.3% felt it was only partly relevant. Although the majority of the respondents were satisfied with various components of their work and supervision, less than half reported having adequate infra-structural support. Only 12% had completed their Masters' dissertations, and less than one-third of the sample favoured the proposed HPCSA ruling on dissertation completion before the internship. The majority of respondents were keen to pursue further research and a doctorate. One-third had planned to emigrate, and this group showed significantly higher levels of dissatisfaction with aspects of the training and supervision, experienced significantly more language difficulties with patients, and had significantly less favourable views of Community Service. The results are discussed within the context of local and international training issues in Professional Psychology, with some recommendations provided.
Towards a Definition of Philosophical Counselling in South Africa
Authors: Louw Dirk J. , Fourie David P.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to define Philosophical Counselling (PC) or, more specifically, PC as practised in South Africa. This was done through allowing South African philosophical counsellors to tell their stories about PC. The epistemological framework was that of social constructionism. The study involved a series of in-depth interviews with three South African philosophical counsellors. The major themes that emerged from the participants' stories seemed to centre around: the existential need for the other; the conceptual need for the other; engaging with the other methodically; and caring for the other. While their stories largely resonate with current and overwhelmingly European and North American conceptions of PC, they also seem to provide a uniquely South African impetus to revise these conceptions. Moreover, the findings of this study may facilitate a dialogue between philosophical counsellors and their colleagues in related professions, especially psychotherapists.
HIV and AIDS Related Stigma: A Necessary Protective Mechanism for Children in High Exposure Areas?
Authors: Goodall Julia , van der Riet Mary , O'Neill Vivien , Killian Beverley
Published: March 2013

Much research conducted within the context of stigma related to HIV and AIDS focuses on the effects of stigma without reflecting on the complex social processes which contribute to its construction. In order to render HIV and AIDS interventions and treatment strategies more effective, it is important to consider the function of stigma. This study reflects on the complex social processes underlying children's understandings and construction of stigma related to HIV and AIDS. The study used qualitative interview and focus group data generated in a project on barriers to learning. The findings suggest that the process of stigma construction functions as a protective othering response that may provide a necessary psychological defence in the often overwhelming context of HIV and AIDS. A focus on how children make sense of stigma is at the heart of changing future health behaviours in this context.
Relating Learning Strategies, Self-Esteem, Intellectual Functioning with Academic Achievement among First-Year Engineering Students
Authors: Seabi Joseph
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between learning strategies, self-esteem, intellectual functioning and academic achievement among first-year engineering students in South Africa. The current study also intended to determine which variables would contribute significantly to academic achievement. Four measures (Learning and Study Strategies Inventory, Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory, Organiser, and Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices) were administered to 111 students. The students' final examination results served as a measure of academic achievement. Modest but significant correlations were found between self-esteem, learning strategies, Organiser, and academic achievement. Results further revealed Attitude, Freedom from Anxiety, Test Strategies, and Organiser as significant contributors to academic achievement. Implications for educational practice are discussed.
Historical Trends in South African Race Attitudes
Authors: Durrheim Kevin , Tredoux Colin , Foster Don , Dixon John
Published: March 2013

This article presents an historical survey of intergroup attitudes in South Africa, tracing social distance scores back to 1934 and semantic differential scores back to 1975. We compare the attitudes of different race groups towards each other over time by standardizing the scores from different historical periods on a common metric. This enables us to pursue two lines of investigation: (1) to chart the effect that racial classification has had on ingroup bias patterns, and (2) to assess the impact of changing historical contexts on intergroup attitudes — especially the threatening and competitive context of the post-1976 struggle for liberation and the post-1994 context of democracy and reconciliation. The data indicate that dramatic changes may be taking place, with white respondents showing declining levels of prejudice, the inversion of the historically asymmetric attitude ‘colour bar’, and a slight, perhaps negative, change in attitudes of black African respondents toward other groups.
Individual Psychotherapy as Treatment of Choice: Preliminary Findings from the UCT Child Guidance Clinic
Authors: Waumsley Samuel , Swartz Sally
Published: March 2013

Individual psychotherapeutic interventions conducted at the University of Cape Town Child Guidance Clinic (CGC) between 2000 and 2009 were investigated quantitatively with a view to offering informed conclusions on the current nature of clinical practice at the Clinic. Considering relevant socio-economic, political and pedagogical contexts of the Clinic's work, some observations are also offered on the applicability of such individual psychotherapeutic practice more generally in the local South African setting today. The 156 individual case files that make up the sample were reviewed and a broad range of clinical information was collated including data on clients' demographics, their presenting difficulties and interventions employed, as well as on clients' apparent clinical outcomes. Results indicated that clients' social class had little or no effect on clinical outcomes. The majority of clients in the sample appeared to have positive outcomes upon termination, despite a significant proportion of clients reporting histories of childhood sexual abuse and othertrauma. Trainee clinicians at the CGC appear to manage well, achieving what appear to be generally positive clinical results over relatively short time frames despite clinical inexperience and clients' often severe presenting difficulties. This, it is argued, attests to the power of individual work to unlock individual potential in the local context.
The Psychofortology of Female Psychiatric Out-Patients: Living with Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Steyn C. , Howcroft J.G. , Fouché J.P.
Published: March 2013

Depression and anxiety are estimated to be two of the most important causes of disease burden in the world, and they appear to be more prevalent among women than men. The present study aimed to explore and describe the psychofortology of female psychiatric out-patients living with mood and anxiety disorders. An exploratory descriptive research design was used and the participants were selected by means of non-probability purposive sampling. The sample consisted of 60 female psychiatric out-patients who were selected from the Nelson Mandela Metropole in the Eastern Cape. The selection was based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data were gathered through the administration of a biographical questionnaire, Hammer and Mailing's Coping-Resources Inventory, Antonovsky's Sense-of-Coherence Scale, Diener, Emmons, Larson and Griffin's Satisfaction-with-Life Scale, and Kamman and Flett's Affectometer-2. These data were then analysed according to the aims of the study by the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and multivariate data analysis. The results of the study indicated that the female psychiatric out-patients with mood and anxiety disorders generally experienced lower levels of coping and subjective wellbeing when compared with normative data. The results also identified three clusters, which revealed that the psychiatric out-patients with mood disorders — although they experienced low levels of coping and subjective wellbeing — obtained higher scores than the patients with anxiety disorders. The findings of the research also address the management and care of female psychiatric out-patients living with mood and anxiety disorders.
Suicide in a Poor Rural Community in the Western Cape, South Africa: Experiences of Five Suicide Attempters and Their Families
Authors: Holtman Zelda , Shelmerdine Sarah , London Leslie , Flisher Alan
Published: March 2013

International studies have documented the association between poverty, low education levels and poor mental health, including suicide attempts. Many farm worker communities in the Western Cape, South Africa, are exposed to poor living and working conditions throughout their lives. They also tend to suffer from chronic illness such as tuberculosis as well as widespread alcohol abuse. Many farm workers are also exposed to pesticides, which have been associated with affective disorders. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews this qualitative study explored the life experiences of five suicide survivors and their carers to examine the factors that, according to them, predisposed them to and precipitated the suicide attempt. The impact of the suicide attempt on the family was also explored as well as shortcomings in terms of psychological support networks in the community. Contextual factors identified by the study participants that affected them included abject poverty as a result of unemployment and low education levels, childhood within dysfunctional family environments, early alcohol use and current alcohol dependence, previous and current interpersonal conflict and violence, a sense of hopelessness and the absence of coping mechanisms. Easy access to pesticides as a means for self-harm was also a common factor. Further research on the determinants of suicide attempts in this community is needed, as well as on effective and affordable interventions in remote and vulnerable communities such as these. Addressing structural problems would deal with the underlying reasons for suicidal feelings. In the meantime, shorter-term multi-sectoral interventions are needed by stakeholders such as government, civil society and faith-based organizations. These could include effective legislation and policies that regulate working and living conditions of farm workers, appropriate mental health care interventions, educational workshops, and nutrition schemes that address the unique needs of rural farming communities.
Challenges Counselors Face While Practising in South African Schools: Implications for Culturally Relevant in-Service Training
Authors: Pillay Jace
Published: March 2013

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the challenges counselors face while practising in South African schools. An ecological systems theoretical approach was used. In-depth interviews were conducted with school counselors from six different schools, in various education districts in Gauteng. These interviews were transcribed and analysed for recurrent themes. The findings highlight three main characteristics that are essential for counselors within the South African context. These are the ability to fulfill multiple roles and responsibilities in a multicultural context; taking responsibility for their own as well as others' personal and professional development; and the ability to establish internal and external collaborative networks. All these characteristics allude to an ecosystemic way of thinking and functioning which is embedded in community participation and support. Hence, there are implications for culturally relevant in-service training.
Psychosocial Factors Predicting Academic Performance of Students at a Historically Disadvantaged University
Authors: Sommer Marc , Dumont Kitty
Published: March 2013

The aim of the present study was twofold: firstly, to replicate another model proposing that psychosocial factors, such as academic motivation, self-esteem, perceived stress, academic overload, and help-seeking, predict academic performance via adjustment to university. Secondly, the study aimed to identify those psychosocial predictors most relevant for a historically disadvantaged university context. The study was conducted among 101 first- and second-year students at the University of Fort Hare. The results revealed that both the model structure, as suggested in earlier work, and some predictors could be replicated. The results also point to specifics of the university context under investigation.
PTSD Symptoms in Intellectually Disabled Victims of Sexual Assault
Authors: Shabalala Nokuthula , Jasson Aimee
Published: March 2013

The high rates of sexual violence in the country suggest that people with intellectual disabilities (ID) are likely to be sexually victimised. Rape and sexual assault have negative consequences for survivors, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) being the most common psychiatric diagnosis used to capture the reaction to this trauma. This study sought to investigate the presence of PTSD symptoms in a group of people with ID who had been sexually abused. The Child PTSD Checklist was administered to 54 individuals with ID — 27 with and 27 without a known history of sexual abuse. The Checklist was also administered to the care-givers of those who had been sexually abused. Higher rates of a PTSD diagnosis and a higher intensity of PTSD symptoms were found in the group with than in the group without a history of sexual abuse. There were no significant differences between self and care-giver reports with respect to the prevalence of a PTSD diagnosis, but there were differences on the different symptom clusters. The results indicate that survivors with ID should be asked directly about their internal subjective experiences, with care-giver reports being used as collateral information, and that therapeutic interventions following sexual abuse should be offered.
The Manifestation of Anxiety among Sesotho Speakers
Authors: Mosotho Lehlohonolo , Louw Daniel Andreas , Jacobus Frederick , Calitz Wilhelmus
Published: March 2013

Mental health research in black communities in South Africa has been neglected to an alarming degree. Consequently the health system is in a precarious situation owing to a lack of accurate data to facilitate proper planning. This study investigates the way in which anxiety is clinically manifested among Sesotho speakers. For this exploratory descriptive study, the participants consisted of 101 Sesotho speakers diagnosed with anxiety disorders. They were drawn from the population of patients visiting various health establishments in the Mangaung area, South Africa. A semi-structured interview based on the Psychiatric Interview Questionnaire was used to evaluate the participants. It consisted of two types of data collection: the open-ended interview and clinical observation. The results show that there were marked differences in the presentation of anxiety symptoms among Sesotho speakers in comparison with what has been reported in western literature. Anxiety among Sesotho speakers is characterized by the prevalence of hallucinations, and there are also overlapping symptoms of anxiety and depression.
A Retrospective Evaluation of a Wilderness-Based Leadership Development Programme
Authors: Draper Catherine E. , Lund Crick , Flisher Alan J.
Published: March 2013

The Leadership Project (LP) in Cape Town, South Africa, is a wilderness-based leadership development programme that targets young people from diverse backgrounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the LP, focusing on process and perceived outcomes. Document analysis and key informant interviews were used to evaluate programme reach and implementation process. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups with past programme participants ( n = 46) were conducted to assess perceived outcomes. Study findings indicated that the LP offers a relevant programme and has wide reach through its range of client agencies and organisations. Qualitative findings highlighted that participants' positive experiences and views of the LP came about through the interaction between ‘self’, ‘others’ and the ‘environment’. Participants' perceived intrapersonal and interpersonal outcomes of the LP aligned with the LP's intended outcomes. Mechanisms of perceived outcomes — leaders, programme activities and programme setting — influenced and facilitated the reflective process. This reflective process (strongly related to the intrapersonal outcome of increased self-awareness) appeared to underlie the interpersonal outcomes of the LP. Therefore, a significant finding of this study was that awareness of self is a key characteristic of leadership development. The nature of perceived outcomes was underpinned by the changing of perspectives, and the LP was described as either starting or contributing to a process of change, or as a life changing experience. No major improvements to the LP were suggested, but rather participants' responses affirmed the content and delivery of the programme. These findings indicate that a study with a relatively small scope can provide insight into the perceived outcomes of a leadership development programme, particularly one that caters for participants from a diverse range of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The findings have elucidated the manner in which inter personal outcomes are underpinned by intra personal outcomes, and the complexity of these outcomes in terms of assessment.
The Difference between Adolescent Users and Non-Users of Addictive Substances in a Low Socio-Economic Status Community: Contextual Factors Explored from the Perspective of Subjective Wellbeing
Authors: Florence Maria , Koch Elize
Published: March 2013

We aimed to explore the differences between adolescents from a low socio-economic Cape Town community who used addictive substances, and those who did not, with regard to subjective well-being. The Kidscreen52 was used to measure subjective wellbeing in a sample of 179 Grade 10 and 11 learners; 41.3% of the sample was male. Thirty-five percent of the adolescents reported to be substance users, with significantly more males reporting substance use than females in both grades. Scores on four of the sub-scales were significantly different for the substance users and non-users (namely, Feelings, General mood, Family and home life, School and learning). A post hoc analysis indicated that males and females differed significantly on General mood, but that this difference did not interact with substance use.
Introducing the CORE-OM in a South African Context: Validation of the CORE-OM using a South African Student Population Sample
Authors: Campbell Megan M. , Young Charles
Published: March 2013

The Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM) was originally introduced as a standardised, practice-based evidence tool for generating effectiveness data by practitioners within the context of routine clinical practice in the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) settings. Following wide application across UK NHS sites the CORE-OM has proven to be a pragmatic measure of both a) gross psychological distress and b) the effectiveness of psychotherapy interventions across client populations, presenting problems, clinical settings and therapy models. However in order for South Africa to benefit from this tool, the CORE-OM must be applicable within a South African context. This requires its validation within South African populations. The aim of this article is to demonstrate the cross-cultural validity of the CORE-OM, using a South African student population sample and in so doing to provide preliminary referential data for use in interpreting CORE-OM scores within English-medium, South African University student counselling centre contexts.
Psychometric Properties of the Wellness Questionnaire for Higher Education
Authors: Gradidge D.H. , de Jager A.C.
Published: March 2013

The wellness model is applied widely by student counselling and development practitioners in South Africa. Its holistic focus is inclusive of physical, intellectual, social, environmental, occupational, financial, emotional and spiritual dimensions of individual development. It is used for individual counselling and also to conceptualise student needs in order to plan for student counselling and development group interventions. However, no standardized measures of wellness exist for South African use. The Wellness Questionnaire for Higher Education (WQHE) was developed in response to this assessment deficiency. This article describes the psychometric properties of the WQHE as evidenced to date. The overall findings in terms of the various psychometric properties investigated confirm that (i) wellness is an observable and measureable behaviour, and (ii) the WQHE adequately operationalises the wellness model for South African students of Higher Education across gender, language and academic year level groups — thereby providing users with a valid and reliable indication of their levels of wellness.
Rethinking Rorschach Interpretation: An Exploration of Resilient Black South African Adolescents' Personal Constructions
Authors: Odendaal Isabel E. , Brink Marita , Theron Linda C.
Published: March 2013

We explore Exner's Rorschach Comprehensive System as a schema-processing task to understand how six Black1 South African adolescents' personal constructions informed their transactional resilience. Transactional resilience is conceptualised as a process of meaning-making of present and past experiences to knit a healthy sense of self. We first provide a framework for a culturally sensitive, conceptual Rorschach interpretation. Then, using six case studies, we illustrate how a schema-processing approach to Rorschach interpretation facilitated the identification of four personal constructions informing their transactional resilience. These constructions were case-specific, self-reflective strategies and included (1) emotional stoicism, (2) frequent introspection, (3) honouring the past, and (4) adopting a new identity. These findings offer an opportunity for rethinking how a culturally sensitive, conceptual Rorschach interpretation allowed understanding of these strategies to emerge. We conclude by discussing the Rorschach indicators that contributed significantly to a better understanding of the role of personal constructions in the resilient participants' process of self-knitting, and encourage psychologists to replicate this schema-processing Rorschach approach.