My research focuses primarily on applied research within the fields of social gerontology/gerontological social work, and secondary on addiction (substance misuse and problematic internet use). Phone: +27124202648 Address: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Southern African Journal of Social Work and Social Development, 2024
Pandemics, such as the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) in March 2020, have a negativ... more Pandemics, such as the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) in March 2020, have a negative impact on older persons’ (60 years and older) physical and mental health. Research on the effects of Covid-19 on older persons’ experience of loneliness and self-reported social support has predominately originated from the Global North. Applying the strengths perspective, the present study aimed to determine and compare the loneliness and social support among South African older persons during a pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was operationalised to collect data from community-dwelling older persons (n = 139) and older persons residing in residential care facilities (n = 99) through purposive sampling across five South African provinces. A loneliness scale was used to measure the respondents’ overall loneliness, including emotional and social loneliness. A social support scale was used to measure the availability of social support across four domains. The survey focused on social contact, number of close friends/relatives, socio-demographics, and subjective physical and mental health, respectively. Independent samples t-tests were run to explore any statistically significant differences between the two groups. Community-dwelling older persons were found to present with marginally higher levels of loneliness. No statistically significant differences were identified between the two groups. Community-dwelling older persons measured higher on social support than their peers in residential care. Two domains of social support, namely, affectionate support and positive social interaction, were found to be significantly different (p < 0.01). Based on the study’s results, implications for strengths-based gerontological social work services in resource-constrained settings during a pandemic were delineated.
The literature on the biopsychosocial effects of COVID-19 on older persons has originated predomi... more The literature on the biopsychosocial effects of COVID-19 on older persons has originated predominately from the Global North, with a dearth of studies focusing on the loneliness of older persons in the developing world, such as South Africa. This cross-sectional study explored the loneliness of South African older persons (N = 118) before and during COVID-19 to inform gerontological social work. The survey incorporated a standardised scale of loneliness and items to assess the type and quantity of contact with others, physical health, mental health and socio-demographic variables. Bivariate and multivariate analyses explored the factors that contributed to overall loneliness, emotional loneliness and social loneliness. Results indicated a statistically significant increase in social, emotional and overall loneliness from pre-to during COVID-19. Considered from a socio-ecological resilience perspective, gerontological social work services are recommended for alleviating loneliness amongst South African older persons during a pandemic, such as COVID-19.
The purpose of this study was to create a profile of the sentenced older adult male offender inca... more The purpose of this study was to create a profile of the sentenced older adult male offender incarcerated in South African prisons. The findings of this investigation are based on face-to-face surveys with 88 older adult male inmates. In order to develop a comprehensive profile, the study explored offenders’ backgrounds, previous and current offenses, lifestyle patterns, physical and mental health, institutional living conditions, release, reintegration, and mortality in prison. These domains are discussed in detail, and recommendations are offered for the treatment and care of this offender group. The recommendations may be applicable to other developing countries in the Global South.
COVID-19 had a significant impact on older South Africans' experience of social support. This cro... more COVID-19 had a significant impact on older South Africans' experience of social support. This cross-sectional study explored possible risk and protective factors of social support among community-dwelling older adults (N = 118). Social support pre-to during COVID-19 decreased significantly; however, overall social support was greater for those who were older, had more face-to-face contact, and had a greater number of friends or relatives. From a socio-ecological perspective on resilience, greater opportunities for older adults to create connections, such as classes or community events, are recommended to facilitate desired social supports, which in turn supports greater health and well-being.
This qualitative study explores and describes the resilience of homeless older persons in the Cit... more This qualitative study explores and describes the resilience of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. Eleven participants, recruited purposively, participated in photovoice activities supplemented with semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed through reflexive thematic analysis and trustworthiness was ensured. Findings indicate that conflict, abuse, family disappointment, unemployment, mental health challenges, declining mobility, isolation and a lack of access to services are risk factors hindering resilience. Religion, support and socialisation, amongst other things, are identified as protective factors enabling resilience. Recommendations for resilience-informed biopsychosocial gerontological social services to homeless older persons are offered to navigate towards better-than-expected outcomes.
Teachers face increased workplace challenges in South Africa. Through a process of intervention r... more Teachers face increased workplace challenges in South Africa. Through a process of intervention research, this study aimed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of a work-based support programme for teachers. Maslow's hierarchy of needs was adopted as the theoretical framework informing both programme design and evaluation. Teachers (n = 10) were recruited through simple random sampling in the North West Province, South Africa. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions before and after exposure to the programme. Data were thematically analysed. Pre-exposure findings supported existing literature that states that teachers face numerous malleable workplace challenges such as learner indiscipline, parental disengagement, overcrowded classrooms, considerable administrative work and burnout. Post-exposure findings indicated that the programme mitigated teachers' perceived weaknesses and seems to have enabled them to cope with and manage their workplace challenges. It is concluded that the programme facilitated a process to enable participants to navigate towards self-actualisation and reaching their full potential in the work environment. Recommendations are offered for the further implementation of the programme and in addressing work-based challenges experienced by South African teachers.
The biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons (male and female persons, 55 years an... more The biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons (male and female persons, 55 years and older), specifically considered from a resilience lens, are inadequately described within the South African context. This study explored and described the biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane from a resilience lens. A qualitative research approach, operationalised through a collective case study, was implemented with 34 older persons across different research sites in the metropolitan area. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Transcriptions of interviews were analysed through a process of thematic analysis. Apart from a brief profile, six themes are reported; (1) the choice of areas where homeless older persons reside, (2) the causes of homelessness, (3) the adversities they face and (4) coping strategies employed by homeless older persons, (5) the services and professionals homeless older persons utilised, and (6) the voices of participants concerning their recommendations for the City of Tshwane. Considered from a resilience lens, recommendations for an integrated social services delivery framework are offered for mitigating the harsh circumstances of homelessness among older persons.
The study focuses on a qualitative evaluation of the Soul City Social Intervention Programme (SCP... more The study focuses on a qualitative evaluation of the Soul City Social Intervention Programme (SCP) on HIV and AIDS targeted at the youth in the Northern Cape province, South Africa. The evaluation was implemented through a qualitative study, operationalised through an instrumental case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 SCP field workers. Thematic analysis crystallised into two themes. Theme 1 focuses on the limitations regarding the implementation of the SCP, while theme 2 highlights the evaluation of the SCP from the field workers’ perspective. recommendations are made to improve the effectiveness of the programme.
SAHARA-J: Journal of Social Aspects of HIV/AIDS An Open Access Journal ISSN: (Print) ( A qualitative evaluation of a stress management programme for HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane, South Africa, 2020
The HIV and AIDS pandemic resulted in increased demands on the South African healthcare system an... more The HIV and AIDS pandemic resulted in increased demands on the South African healthcare system and contributed to elevated stress levels among healthcare workers, including home-based care workers. The goal of the study was to evaluate a stress management programme for HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane, South Africa. Social constructionism was adopted as the theoretical framework of the study. The study implemented intervention research and adopted a qualitative research approach, specifically the instrumental case study. Non-probability sampling, specifically volunteer sampling was utilised to recruit a group of twelve HIV and AIDS home-based care workers (n = 12). The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and administered before and after exposure to the stress management programme. The research findings, based on thematic analysis, revealed that the programme was effective in mitigating the impact of stress experienced by the HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane. Recommendations are proffered for the refinement of the newly developed stress management programme for implementation among HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in similar field settings.
Appropriate gerontological social work services are, amongst others, dependent on social workers'... more Appropriate gerontological social work services are, amongst others, dependent on social workers' knowledge of and attitudes towards older persons. The current cohort of students, known as Generation Z, are global citizens. This study determined and described South African undergraduate social work students' knowledge of and attitudes towards older persons. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken with B Social Work students (N = 395) at two universities. Data collection included the three scales of Palmore's First Facts of Aging Quiz in multiple-choice format (1996) and four scales of Fraboni's Scale of Ageism (1990). Age and five categorical factors were considered to determine their simultaneous impact on each of the seven scales/subscales of the two instruments by performing multi-way ANOVA models. An unexpected finding was that the factor 'completed a course in gerontology' did not have any impact on any scale. Year level of study, area of childhood residence and consideration to work exclusively with older persons after graduation simultaneously impacted respondents' 'overall attitude' towards older persons. Two factors (i.e., year level of study and area of childhood residence) mutually impacted respondents' 'overall knowledge' of aging. Recommendations for the training of Generation Z students are offered concerning course content and pedagogical interventions.
The numbers of people infected with HIV and living with AIDS remain high in South Africa. The you... more The numbers of people infected with HIV and living with AIDS remain high in South Africa. The youth of the Northern Cape province in South Africa are a vulnerable population in this regard. However, there seems to be a dearth of rigorous evaluations of HIV and AIDS social intervention programmes targeted at the youth. This study aimed to evaluate the relevance of the content of an HIV and AIDS social intervention programme for the youth in the Northern Cape as well as to collect attendees' recommendations with regards to programme content. The data collection method comprised a group-administered questionnaire completed by youth (N = 172) who participated in the Soul City social intervention programme (SCP) implemented for the youth in the Northern Cape, and recruited through stratified random sampling. Based on specific criteria, the results showed that the SCP programme's content was relevant to the communities it served. The youth also forwarded recommendations for the programme content. Recommendations from the study include that youth support should be beyond dialogues; women's rights should be promoted within the context of HIV prevention strategies; the SCP should intensify its condom promotion efforts because it is relevant to the South African government's macro-level plan; relevant community leaders should be visited to explain the rationale for the youth's involvement in programmes; and the programme should focus more pertinently on poverty alleviation strategies.
Dual diagnosis has become a topic of interest in recent years. In South Africa individuals diagno... more Dual diagnosis has become a topic of interest in recent years. In South Africa individuals diagnosed with dual diagnosis are left without adequate services as a result of the separation of substance abuse and mental health treatment services. Through a phenomenological study the authors aimed to explore how adults diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and stimulant use disorder experienced treatment at treatment centres. Considered from a bio-psychosocial perspective, the findings give insight into service users' living world with a dual diagnosis, their experiences, their unique needs for treatment and requirements to maintain abstinence. Recommendations for social work services at treatment centres are offered.
The unique case of substance abuse among employees in the
waste management sector seems inadequat... more The unique case of substance abuse among employees in the waste management sector seems inadequately described. Based on the perspectives of employees recently released from treatment centers for substance abuse, and their supervisors at a public waste management organization in South Africa, this study explored and described the risk factors for substance abuse in the waste management sector. As part of a collective case study, data were collected through semistructured interviews with employees (n¼10) and a focus group discussion with supervisors (n¼8). Recommendations are offered to manage the risk factors for substance abuse in the waste management sector.
Social welfare policies mandate social workers to build social capital in order to, amongst other... more Social welfare policies mandate social workers to build social capital in order to, amongst other things, manage the impact of HIV and AIDS on communities. However, the views of community members residing in metropolitan areas about the roles that social worker could perform in enhancing social capital to manage HIV and AIDS are inadequately described. One comprehensive focus group discussion was conducted with 10 community members representing four NPOs involved in HIV and AIDS work across the Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni Metros. Recommendations are made to social workers to enhance social capital, and guidelines and strategies offered to fulfil this obligation through developmental social work.
More than 20% of admissions into treatment centres are re-admissions, with high incidences among ... more More than 20% of admissions into treatment centres are re-admissions, with high incidences among young African adults in the Gauteng Province. Drug abuse and relapse have a negative impact on the achievement of social development goals in South Africa, and make serious demands on social work services. This study determined the risk factors for relapse among young African adults following in-patient treatment for drug abuse, specifically according to gender in order to propose localised and gender-specific treatment programmes and aftercare/reintegration services. A survey was undertaken with 44 respondents, who completed a group-administered questionnaire, at treatment centres across the Gauteng Province.
The premise of this study is that if exposure to substance use in the social environment of adole... more The premise of this study is that if exposure to substance use in the social environment of adolescents is understood, macro interventions could be recommended to promote adolescents' right to live in a safe and sustainable environment. The aim of the study was to explore adolescents' experiences of exposure to substance use in their social environment, other than the home. A qualitative research approach was adopted and 40 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Adolescent participants, of both genders between 11 and 18 years, were recruited across the Tshwane Metropole. The Social Learning Theory underpinned this study as it offers concepts and principles for understanding how social environmental factors impact on adolescents' behaviour. Key findings indicated that exposure to substance use is highly prevalent amongst adolescents in the Tshwane Metropole and could be normalised in their social reality. Recommendations are offered for appropriate macro interventions in line with a developmental approach.
South Africa and Kenya have both adopted a social development approach to shape their development... more South Africa and Kenya have both adopted a social development approach to shape their development agendas, as well as national policies in response to drug abuse. The goal of this study was to compare the content of South Africa’s National Drug Master Plan 2006-2011 (NDMP) and Kenya’s National Drug Abuse Control Policy 2011 (NDACP) from a social development perspective. A quantitative comparative study was undertaken to compare the manifest content of these policies. A checklist of five dimensions of social development, with concomitant themes and indicators, was compiled for this purpose. Both policies emphasise the dimensions ‘levels of service delivery’ and ‘integrated service delivery’, while paying limited attention to the ‘rights-based approach’ and ‘capital development’ dimensions of social development. Lessons learnt from the study are presented in an effort to align drug policies, especially those of developing countries, with a social development approach.
In hierdie artikel word gefokus op 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram, ooreen-komstig ... more In hierdie artikel word gefokus op 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram, ooreen-komstig 'n sterkteperspektief, wat ontwikkel en aangebied is vir alkoholafhanklike bejaardes verbonde aan 'n geregistreerde behandelingsentrum. Die voorgenoemde program is deur die navorsers ontwikkel, gemik op die eiesoortige behoeftes, sterktes en uitdagings van dié kliëntegroep. Die doelwitte van hierdie artikel is (a) om die proses waarvolgens 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram vir alkoholafhanklike bejaardes ontwikkel en aangebied is, te bespreek, asook (b) om die programinhoud kortliks weer te gee, sodat maatskaplikewerk-praktisyns die program enersyds kan benut, en andersyds gestimuleer word tot soortgelyke praktykinisiatiewe.
Southern African Journal of Social Work and Social Development, 2024
Pandemics, such as the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) in March 2020, have a negativ... more Pandemics, such as the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) in March 2020, have a negative impact on older persons’ (60 years and older) physical and mental health. Research on the effects of Covid-19 on older persons’ experience of loneliness and self-reported social support has predominately originated from the Global North. Applying the strengths perspective, the present study aimed to determine and compare the loneliness and social support among South African older persons during a pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was operationalised to collect data from community-dwelling older persons (n = 139) and older persons residing in residential care facilities (n = 99) through purposive sampling across five South African provinces. A loneliness scale was used to measure the respondents’ overall loneliness, including emotional and social loneliness. A social support scale was used to measure the availability of social support across four domains. The survey focused on social contact, number of close friends/relatives, socio-demographics, and subjective physical and mental health, respectively. Independent samples t-tests were run to explore any statistically significant differences between the two groups. Community-dwelling older persons were found to present with marginally higher levels of loneliness. No statistically significant differences were identified between the two groups. Community-dwelling older persons measured higher on social support than their peers in residential care. Two domains of social support, namely, affectionate support and positive social interaction, were found to be significantly different (p < 0.01). Based on the study’s results, implications for strengths-based gerontological social work services in resource-constrained settings during a pandemic were delineated.
The literature on the biopsychosocial effects of COVID-19 on older persons has originated predomi... more The literature on the biopsychosocial effects of COVID-19 on older persons has originated predominately from the Global North, with a dearth of studies focusing on the loneliness of older persons in the developing world, such as South Africa. This cross-sectional study explored the loneliness of South African older persons (N = 118) before and during COVID-19 to inform gerontological social work. The survey incorporated a standardised scale of loneliness and items to assess the type and quantity of contact with others, physical health, mental health and socio-demographic variables. Bivariate and multivariate analyses explored the factors that contributed to overall loneliness, emotional loneliness and social loneliness. Results indicated a statistically significant increase in social, emotional and overall loneliness from pre-to during COVID-19. Considered from a socio-ecological resilience perspective, gerontological social work services are recommended for alleviating loneliness amongst South African older persons during a pandemic, such as COVID-19.
The purpose of this study was to create a profile of the sentenced older adult male offender inca... more The purpose of this study was to create a profile of the sentenced older adult male offender incarcerated in South African prisons. The findings of this investigation are based on face-to-face surveys with 88 older adult male inmates. In order to develop a comprehensive profile, the study explored offenders’ backgrounds, previous and current offenses, lifestyle patterns, physical and mental health, institutional living conditions, release, reintegration, and mortality in prison. These domains are discussed in detail, and recommendations are offered for the treatment and care of this offender group. The recommendations may be applicable to other developing countries in the Global South.
COVID-19 had a significant impact on older South Africans' experience of social support. This cro... more COVID-19 had a significant impact on older South Africans' experience of social support. This cross-sectional study explored possible risk and protective factors of social support among community-dwelling older adults (N = 118). Social support pre-to during COVID-19 decreased significantly; however, overall social support was greater for those who were older, had more face-to-face contact, and had a greater number of friends or relatives. From a socio-ecological perspective on resilience, greater opportunities for older adults to create connections, such as classes or community events, are recommended to facilitate desired social supports, which in turn supports greater health and well-being.
This qualitative study explores and describes the resilience of homeless older persons in the Cit... more This qualitative study explores and describes the resilience of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. Eleven participants, recruited purposively, participated in photovoice activities supplemented with semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed through reflexive thematic analysis and trustworthiness was ensured. Findings indicate that conflict, abuse, family disappointment, unemployment, mental health challenges, declining mobility, isolation and a lack of access to services are risk factors hindering resilience. Religion, support and socialisation, amongst other things, are identified as protective factors enabling resilience. Recommendations for resilience-informed biopsychosocial gerontological social services to homeless older persons are offered to navigate towards better-than-expected outcomes.
Teachers face increased workplace challenges in South Africa. Through a process of intervention r... more Teachers face increased workplace challenges in South Africa. Through a process of intervention research, this study aimed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of a work-based support programme for teachers. Maslow's hierarchy of needs was adopted as the theoretical framework informing both programme design and evaluation. Teachers (n = 10) were recruited through simple random sampling in the North West Province, South Africa. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions before and after exposure to the programme. Data were thematically analysed. Pre-exposure findings supported existing literature that states that teachers face numerous malleable workplace challenges such as learner indiscipline, parental disengagement, overcrowded classrooms, considerable administrative work and burnout. Post-exposure findings indicated that the programme mitigated teachers' perceived weaknesses and seems to have enabled them to cope with and manage their workplace challenges. It is concluded that the programme facilitated a process to enable participants to navigate towards self-actualisation and reaching their full potential in the work environment. Recommendations are offered for the further implementation of the programme and in addressing work-based challenges experienced by South African teachers.
The biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons (male and female persons, 55 years an... more The biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons (male and female persons, 55 years and older), specifically considered from a resilience lens, are inadequately described within the South African context. This study explored and described the biopsychosocial circumstances of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane from a resilience lens. A qualitative research approach, operationalised through a collective case study, was implemented with 34 older persons across different research sites in the metropolitan area. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Transcriptions of interviews were analysed through a process of thematic analysis. Apart from a brief profile, six themes are reported; (1) the choice of areas where homeless older persons reside, (2) the causes of homelessness, (3) the adversities they face and (4) coping strategies employed by homeless older persons, (5) the services and professionals homeless older persons utilised, and (6) the voices of participants concerning their recommendations for the City of Tshwane. Considered from a resilience lens, recommendations for an integrated social services delivery framework are offered for mitigating the harsh circumstances of homelessness among older persons.
The study focuses on a qualitative evaluation of the Soul City Social Intervention Programme (SCP... more The study focuses on a qualitative evaluation of the Soul City Social Intervention Programme (SCP) on HIV and AIDS targeted at the youth in the Northern Cape province, South Africa. The evaluation was implemented through a qualitative study, operationalised through an instrumental case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 SCP field workers. Thematic analysis crystallised into two themes. Theme 1 focuses on the limitations regarding the implementation of the SCP, while theme 2 highlights the evaluation of the SCP from the field workers’ perspective. recommendations are made to improve the effectiveness of the programme.
SAHARA-J: Journal of Social Aspects of HIV/AIDS An Open Access Journal ISSN: (Print) ( A qualitative evaluation of a stress management programme for HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane, South Africa, 2020
The HIV and AIDS pandemic resulted in increased demands on the South African healthcare system an... more The HIV and AIDS pandemic resulted in increased demands on the South African healthcare system and contributed to elevated stress levels among healthcare workers, including home-based care workers. The goal of the study was to evaluate a stress management programme for HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane, South Africa. Social constructionism was adopted as the theoretical framework of the study. The study implemented intervention research and adopted a qualitative research approach, specifically the instrumental case study. Non-probability sampling, specifically volunteer sampling was utilised to recruit a group of twelve HIV and AIDS home-based care workers (n = 12). The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and administered before and after exposure to the stress management programme. The research findings, based on thematic analysis, revealed that the programme was effective in mitigating the impact of stress experienced by the HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane. Recommendations are proffered for the refinement of the newly developed stress management programme for implementation among HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in similar field settings.
Appropriate gerontological social work services are, amongst others, dependent on social workers'... more Appropriate gerontological social work services are, amongst others, dependent on social workers' knowledge of and attitudes towards older persons. The current cohort of students, known as Generation Z, are global citizens. This study determined and described South African undergraduate social work students' knowledge of and attitudes towards older persons. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken with B Social Work students (N = 395) at two universities. Data collection included the three scales of Palmore's First Facts of Aging Quiz in multiple-choice format (1996) and four scales of Fraboni's Scale of Ageism (1990). Age and five categorical factors were considered to determine their simultaneous impact on each of the seven scales/subscales of the two instruments by performing multi-way ANOVA models. An unexpected finding was that the factor 'completed a course in gerontology' did not have any impact on any scale. Year level of study, area of childhood residence and consideration to work exclusively with older persons after graduation simultaneously impacted respondents' 'overall attitude' towards older persons. Two factors (i.e., year level of study and area of childhood residence) mutually impacted respondents' 'overall knowledge' of aging. Recommendations for the training of Generation Z students are offered concerning course content and pedagogical interventions.
The numbers of people infected with HIV and living with AIDS remain high in South Africa. The you... more The numbers of people infected with HIV and living with AIDS remain high in South Africa. The youth of the Northern Cape province in South Africa are a vulnerable population in this regard. However, there seems to be a dearth of rigorous evaluations of HIV and AIDS social intervention programmes targeted at the youth. This study aimed to evaluate the relevance of the content of an HIV and AIDS social intervention programme for the youth in the Northern Cape as well as to collect attendees' recommendations with regards to programme content. The data collection method comprised a group-administered questionnaire completed by youth (N = 172) who participated in the Soul City social intervention programme (SCP) implemented for the youth in the Northern Cape, and recruited through stratified random sampling. Based on specific criteria, the results showed that the SCP programme's content was relevant to the communities it served. The youth also forwarded recommendations for the programme content. Recommendations from the study include that youth support should be beyond dialogues; women's rights should be promoted within the context of HIV prevention strategies; the SCP should intensify its condom promotion efforts because it is relevant to the South African government's macro-level plan; relevant community leaders should be visited to explain the rationale for the youth's involvement in programmes; and the programme should focus more pertinently on poverty alleviation strategies.
Dual diagnosis has become a topic of interest in recent years. In South Africa individuals diagno... more Dual diagnosis has become a topic of interest in recent years. In South Africa individuals diagnosed with dual diagnosis are left without adequate services as a result of the separation of substance abuse and mental health treatment services. Through a phenomenological study the authors aimed to explore how adults diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and stimulant use disorder experienced treatment at treatment centres. Considered from a bio-psychosocial perspective, the findings give insight into service users' living world with a dual diagnosis, their experiences, their unique needs for treatment and requirements to maintain abstinence. Recommendations for social work services at treatment centres are offered.
The unique case of substance abuse among employees in the
waste management sector seems inadequat... more The unique case of substance abuse among employees in the waste management sector seems inadequately described. Based on the perspectives of employees recently released from treatment centers for substance abuse, and their supervisors at a public waste management organization in South Africa, this study explored and described the risk factors for substance abuse in the waste management sector. As part of a collective case study, data were collected through semistructured interviews with employees (n¼10) and a focus group discussion with supervisors (n¼8). Recommendations are offered to manage the risk factors for substance abuse in the waste management sector.
Social welfare policies mandate social workers to build social capital in order to, amongst other... more Social welfare policies mandate social workers to build social capital in order to, amongst other things, manage the impact of HIV and AIDS on communities. However, the views of community members residing in metropolitan areas about the roles that social worker could perform in enhancing social capital to manage HIV and AIDS are inadequately described. One comprehensive focus group discussion was conducted with 10 community members representing four NPOs involved in HIV and AIDS work across the Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni Metros. Recommendations are made to social workers to enhance social capital, and guidelines and strategies offered to fulfil this obligation through developmental social work.
More than 20% of admissions into treatment centres are re-admissions, with high incidences among ... more More than 20% of admissions into treatment centres are re-admissions, with high incidences among young African adults in the Gauteng Province. Drug abuse and relapse have a negative impact on the achievement of social development goals in South Africa, and make serious demands on social work services. This study determined the risk factors for relapse among young African adults following in-patient treatment for drug abuse, specifically according to gender in order to propose localised and gender-specific treatment programmes and aftercare/reintegration services. A survey was undertaken with 44 respondents, who completed a group-administered questionnaire, at treatment centres across the Gauteng Province.
The premise of this study is that if exposure to substance use in the social environment of adole... more The premise of this study is that if exposure to substance use in the social environment of adolescents is understood, macro interventions could be recommended to promote adolescents' right to live in a safe and sustainable environment. The aim of the study was to explore adolescents' experiences of exposure to substance use in their social environment, other than the home. A qualitative research approach was adopted and 40 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Adolescent participants, of both genders between 11 and 18 years, were recruited across the Tshwane Metropole. The Social Learning Theory underpinned this study as it offers concepts and principles for understanding how social environmental factors impact on adolescents' behaviour. Key findings indicated that exposure to substance use is highly prevalent amongst adolescents in the Tshwane Metropole and could be normalised in their social reality. Recommendations are offered for appropriate macro interventions in line with a developmental approach.
South Africa and Kenya have both adopted a social development approach to shape their development... more South Africa and Kenya have both adopted a social development approach to shape their development agendas, as well as national policies in response to drug abuse. The goal of this study was to compare the content of South Africa’s National Drug Master Plan 2006-2011 (NDMP) and Kenya’s National Drug Abuse Control Policy 2011 (NDACP) from a social development perspective. A quantitative comparative study was undertaken to compare the manifest content of these policies. A checklist of five dimensions of social development, with concomitant themes and indicators, was compiled for this purpose. Both policies emphasise the dimensions ‘levels of service delivery’ and ‘integrated service delivery’, while paying limited attention to the ‘rights-based approach’ and ‘capital development’ dimensions of social development. Lessons learnt from the study are presented in an effort to align drug policies, especially those of developing countries, with a social development approach.
In hierdie artikel word gefokus op 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram, ooreen-komstig ... more In hierdie artikel word gefokus op 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram, ooreen-komstig 'n sterkteperspektief, wat ontwikkel en aangebied is vir alkoholafhanklike bejaardes verbonde aan 'n geregistreerde behandelingsentrum. Die voorgenoemde program is deur die navorsers ontwikkel, gemik op die eiesoortige behoeftes, sterktes en uitdagings van dié kliëntegroep. Die doelwitte van hierdie artikel is (a) om die proses waarvolgens 'n maatskaplike groepwerk-bemagtigingsprogram vir alkoholafhanklike bejaardes ontwikkel en aangebied is, te bespreek, asook (b) om die programinhoud kortliks weer te gee, sodat maatskaplikewerk-praktisyns die program enersyds kan benut, en andersyds gestimuleer word tot soortgelyke praktykinisiatiewe.
Nyaope is a relatively new drug on the South African market and mostly (mis)used by youths. Witho... more Nyaope is a relatively new drug on the South African market and mostly (mis)used by youths. Without targeted intervention, this drug could negatively affect the wellbeing of the people involved. Aftercare and reintegration services are often downplayed, with little emphasis in both research and practice. This article reports on the aftercare needs of nyaope users from both the users’ and the significant others’ points of view in Hammanskraal (a South African township). A collective case study was implemented through semi-structured interviews with both nyaope users and significant others. Recommendations are offered to role players involved in aftercare and reintegration services.
Worldwide the internet is increasingly used for personal, academic and work-related purposes. Ext... more Worldwide the internet is increasingly used for personal, academic and work-related purposes. Extensive internet use could result in Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Students, often young adults, are identified as a potential risk group for PIU. Social work has a long history of involvement with services related to addiction and PIU falls within this domain. A hiatus was identified in terms of the voice of students, as service users, on the involvement of social workers in services related to PIU within the university environment. Based on convenience sampling, a survey was undertaken with 498 second-year students enrolled for a basic social science course at a South African university. Data were collected by means of a survey, including an open-ended question, with the aim to explore students’ perceptions of and suggestions for the involvement of social workers in services related to PIU. Based on the findings, integrated primary and secondary social work methods on the levels of prevention, early intervention, treatment and aftercare are recommended. Recommendations include awareness campaigns, community education, policy development, skills training, individual counselling, therapy groups, and aftercare services to ensure the sustainability of the gains from previous interventions.
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Papers by Stephan Geyer
effectiveness of the programme.
study. Non-probability sampling, specifically volunteer sampling was utilised to recruit a group of twelve HIV and AIDS home-based care workers (n = 12). The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and administered before and after exposure to the stress management programme. The research findings, based on thematic analysis, revealed that the programme was effective in mitigating the impact of stress experienced by the HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane. Recommendations are proffered for the
refinement of the newly developed stress management programme for implementation among HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in similar field settings.
waste management sector seems inadequately described.
Based on the perspectives of employees recently released
from treatment centers for substance abuse, and their supervisors
at a public waste management organization in South
Africa, this study explored and described the risk factors for
substance abuse in the waste management sector. As part of
a collective case study, data were collected through semistructured
interviews with employees (n¼10) and a focus group
discussion with supervisors (n¼8). Recommendations are
offered to manage the risk factors for substance abuse in the
waste management sector.
effectiveness of the programme.
study. Non-probability sampling, specifically volunteer sampling was utilised to recruit a group of twelve HIV and AIDS home-based care workers (n = 12). The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and administered before and after exposure to the stress management programme. The research findings, based on thematic analysis, revealed that the programme was effective in mitigating the impact of stress experienced by the HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in Tshwane. Recommendations are proffered for the
refinement of the newly developed stress management programme for implementation among HIV and AIDS home-based care workers in similar field settings.
waste management sector seems inadequately described.
Based on the perspectives of employees recently released
from treatment centers for substance abuse, and their supervisors
at a public waste management organization in South
Africa, this study explored and described the risk factors for
substance abuse in the waste management sector. As part of
a collective case study, data were collected through semistructured
interviews with employees (n¼10) and a focus group
discussion with supervisors (n¼8). Recommendations are
offered to manage the risk factors for substance abuse in the
waste management sector.
basic social science course at a South African university. Data were collected by means of a survey, including an open-ended question, with the aim to explore students’ perceptions of and suggestions for the involvement of social workers in services related to PIU. Based on the findings, integrated primary and secondary social work methods on the levels of prevention, early intervention, treatment and aftercare are recommended. Recommendations include awareness campaigns,
community education, policy development, skills training, individual counselling, therapy groups, and aftercare services to ensure the sustainability of the gains from previous interventions.