OpenUCT :: Browsing by Author "Williams, Fatima"

Browsing by Author "Williams, Fatima"

Now showing 1 - 20 of 23

Open Access
Adoption : parents' perceptions of facilitating factors and challenges in the development of the relationship with their baby
(2016) Henwood, Penelope; Williams, Fatima
The study explored the experiences of parents around their adoption process and relationship-building with their babies. It considered their motivation to adopt and their expectations of what that would entail. Challenges and facilitating factors were examined with regards to how their relationship with their child, rarely new born when placed, grew and developed. The study used Ecological and Attachment theories as theoretical frameworks. This research was conducted using a qualitative research design. Twenty participants (ten adoptive couples) were selected using purposive sampling by an adoption agency and interviewed from a semi-structured interview schedule. Each interview was recorded using a Dictaphone and transcribed by the researcher. Data was thereafter analysed using qualitative methods, specifically analytic induction and open coding. The findings of this study highlighted the complexities of the non-normative transition to adoptive parenthood necessary for many who expected to become parents naturally. The stressors involved include micro and macro preferences for biological kin, fears of not being able to love a child not born to oneself and insecurity around the child returning to their biological parents. It was found that the screening process played a valuable role in lessening these fears, creating support structures and working through loss related to infertility.
Open Access
Caring for HIV positive infants : Cotlands Hospice staffs' perceptions of challenges and stressors which they experience in the workplace
(2011) Shifrin, Lori Beth; Williams, Fatima
This study explored Cotlands Hospice staff's perceptions of challenges and stressors which they experience in the workplace, in caring for HIV infants. This aim of this study was to highlight some of the key struggles that healthcare workers are faced with in the HIV workplace in caring for HIV positive infants. The study also explored the participants' current coping strategies used to cope with stressors from within the workplace and supportive resources available to aid the participants were identified. Lastly unmet needs identified by participants were explored and discussed.
Open Access
Client's perceptions of the oncology social work service at cancer care
(2018) Variawa, Tasneem; Williams, Fatima
This study explored clients’ perceptions of the oncology social work services offered at three Cancercare practices in Cape Town. It considered their motivation for using the service as well as their overall experience of the service. Positive aspects as well as the challenges encountered with the service were examined concerning the frequency and nature of intervention, and their professional relationship with the social workers. The research was conducted using a qualitative research design, more specifically phenomenology. Sixteen participants were selected using purposive sampling by the researcher. They were interviewed face-to-face using a semi-structured interview schedule. The data obtained were analysed using qualitative methods. The findings of this study highlighted the value of a psychosocial service accessible to cancer patients. Psychosocial responses to diagnosis and treatment included the need for information, psychological support for the patient and family, and an assorted range of practical needs. Findings also highlighted the complexities surrounding public perceptions of social workers and psychologists, and the blurred boundaries between the professions in terms of services offered. Participants identified six aspects of the service that were helpful. The challenges encountered with the service were presented in terms of the lack of clarity on the role of the social worker and the need for specific information about the service and external resources. Recommendations were made around the distribution of information within the practice and participants requested regular post-treatment support. Further recommendations were made in terms of professional contact within a public setting, early intervention and future research.
Open Access
Dying of cancer : is it the process or the place that contributes to a good death?
(2012) Manicom, Clare Louise; Williams, Fatima
This Quantitative Study undertook to investigate what family members or caregivers of deceased patients from a private oncology unit in Cape Town experienced during the last week of that patient’s life. The social expectation or conventionally held belief that Good Death is only attainable at home was challenged, with findings indicating that it is possible to achieve a Good Death in a hospital setting.
Open Access
Exploring child protection social workers' perceptions of how their experience of work and wellbeing influence each other
(2023) Stander, Janita; Williams, Fatima
This qualitative study explored child protection social workers' perceptions of how their working experience and wellbeing positively and negatively influence each other. It also further considered child protection social workers' perceptions of the support currently available to them as well as any other supportive measures they require in order to cope effectively with their work demands while maintaining a good sense of well-being. The research was conducted in a Non-Governmental Organisation and permission was granted by the research site to conduct the qualitative study with child protection social workers employed by them. Purposive sampling was used to select the 20 participants and semi-structured online interviews were conducted with these participants. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and then translated from Afrikaans to English. Tesch's (1990) data analysis model was utilised in order to analyse data obtained from the interviews. The findings of this study illustrated the mutual influence that participants' work experience and wellbeing have on each other. Positive relationships with colleagues, supervision, training, time off, experience, protection of children and the unpredictability of the job were highlighted as factors positively influencing participants' wellbeing. Conversely, participants' wellbeing was also negatively influenced by certain challenges encountered at work such as changes due to Covid 19, unpredictability of the job, high caseloads, lack of resources, high level of responsibility, threats to personal safety, repeated exposure to trauma, supervision and the expectations of communities and other stakeholders. Supportive personal relationships, selfcare, spirituality, a positive attitude, boundaries and self-assertiveness enabled participants to cope with work stressors. Certain emotional health factors such as stress and low mood levels negatively influenced participants' work experience. Participants highlighted the need for certain supportive practices such as teambuilding activities, access to debriefing services and a space for reflection. Recommendations were made around the implementation of regular teambuilding activities, provision of debriefing services, continuation of time off policies as well as training opportunities. Recommendations were also made for future research.
Open Access
Exploring firefighters perceptions of how their working experience and personal lives influence each other
(2020) Metcalf, Nicolette; Williams, Fatima
The aim of this qualitative study was to explore firefighters' perceptions of how their working experiences and personal lives positively and negatively influence each other. The purpose of this study was also to understand firefighters' perceptions of the support that is currently available to them and what further support they require, in order to cope with the demands of work and personal relationships. The research was conducted in two research settings and permission was gained to conduct the research from the City of Cape Town's Research Department and the Fire Chief of the Fire and Rescue Department. A qualitative research design was used to conduct this study, and purposive sampling was used to select the sample. A total of twenty, male firefighters were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. A digital recorder was used to ensure that the interviews could be recorded accurately. The interviews were transcribed and analysed following Tesch's (1990) method of data analysis. The findings from this study reflect that the participants' work experiences and personal lives do influence each other. The participants reported that the training and education they received to become a firefighter, their relationship with their colleagues, and shift work had a positive influence on their personal lives. At the same time a number of workplace stressors such as shift work, repeated exposure to trauma, challenging aspects of career advancement and the negative consequences of the rank structure, were identified as negatively influencing their personal lives. Positive factors such as social support including support from family and work as well as religious support help buffer the negative effects of stress experienced by firefighters in their work. Personal and family challenges were seen to have a negative influence on firefighters working experience. Lastly, recommendations were made to various stakeholders including the Fire and Rescue Department as well as the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and Wellness branch. These included the need for online surveys, sports days and informal meetings between management and firefighters. Recommendations to EAP and Wellness branch included 2 continuous marketing of EAP services, pro-active interventions such as stress management and building resilience for firefighters, management training as well as wellness events.
Open Access
Exploring the perceived challenges of single mothers with children diagnosed with autism disorder in the junior phase at Vera School
(2015) Monare, Nthabiseng; Williams, Fatima
This study aimed to explore the perceived challenges of single mothers with children diagnosed with Autism who are in the junior phase at Vera School, focussing on key struggles which they face in caring for their children. Emphasis was on parental stresses during their children's diagnostic processes as well as lack of availability and accessibility of resources about Autism Spectrum Disorder. A qualitative research design was used to carry out the research, and purposive sampling was utilised to select the sample for this study. The sample comprised of 15 single mothers. A semi-structured interview schedule and a voice recorder were used to conduct the interviews. The research was conducted at Vera School, Rondebosch in Cape Town. Findings were drawn from the responses of the participants and compared with literature from previous studies. These findings indicated that single mothers of children diagnosed with Autism lack support to cope with the demands of caring for their children. This was highlighted in the early stages of assessment, making a diagnosis, and during early intervention of their children in a special needs school. Multiple roles, financial constraints and stigma were primary sources of parental stress, as pointed out in this study. Limited resources such as long waiting lists for admissions at special schools and aftercare facilities were highlighted as a great need.
Open Access
Exploring the perceptions of domestic violence interventions among women using MOSAIC services in Cape Town
(2019) Birungi, Sarah Okedi; Williams, Fatima
This study was undertaken to explore perceptions of domestic violence interventions among women using the services of MOSAIC in Cape Town. The study sought to obtain the women’s expectations of the services at MOSAIC, the perceived beneficial and non-beneficial aspects of the services at MOSAIC as well as the suggestions towards the improvement of services at MOSAIC. The findings of the study could facilitate prioritisation and implementation of services that meet the needs of the clients and the improvement of services at MOSAIC. In this qualitative study, face-to-face interviews were conducted among 30 clients of MOSAIC who had attended four or more counselling sessions. The female victims of domestic violence from heterosexual relationships were aged between 19 to 70 years. The participants were selected using a non-probability, purposive sampling method. Data was collected using an interview schedule and recorded with a digital voice recorder. The interviews were conducted at a private venue in Parkwood and MOSAIC’ssatellite offices at Phillipi and Mitchells Plain. Tesch, (1990) eight steps of data analysis were used for analysing data. The findings of the study indicated that receiving counselling was the women’s main expectation of MOSAIC services. Other expectations included receiving emotional support and improved safety in the aftermath of the abuse. The perceived helpful aspects of MOSAIC services included; the availability of the social workers to offer support, the therapeutic relationship between the social workers and the clients, providing clarity and guidance through decision making, improved wellbeing, improved social relations, improved empowerment, supportive counselling and meeting safety needs. The unhelpful aspects of the services at MOSAIC including inconsistent working hours and a poor counselling environment were raised by participants who received assistance from one of the satellite offices. The suggestions for improvement of services at MOSAIC included offering privacy during counselling, co-treatment of substance abuse and domestic violence as well as interventions for different client groups. Other suggestions included increased resources for DV interventions, increased awareness about services at MOSAIC and assisting DV victims to obtain employment. The final suggestions for disclosure of abuse and help-seeking were extended to women in abusive relationships.
Open Access
First time parents' perceptions of their relationship across the transition to parenthood
(2014) Jankelson-Groll, Cheryl Maryilyn; Williams, Fatima
The transition to parenthood is a time of heightened risk for marital distress due to the changes and demands experienced by new parents. The quality of the marital relationship has an influence on child development and on adult well-being. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the marital relationship when couples became parents._ and to understand how these changes impacted on the marital relationship. Factors that alleviated or exacerbated the negative effects of this transition on the couple relationship were identified and discussed. Data was collected from ﬁrst-time parents using an exploratory qualitative method. Participants in heterosexual marriages with a baby aged between 3 months to a year were recruited, using non-probability purposive sampling, followed by snowball sampling. Nine couples were recruited through midwives and doulas in private practice and through their clients. Individual face to face interviews were conducted using an interview schedule as a guideline. The interviews were recorded electronically, transcribed and analysed following Tesch’s (2009) method of data analysis. The findings reflect high levels of overall marital satisfaction both before and after the transition to parenthood amongst many participants. At the same time, participants reported negative changes in certain aspects of their relationship. Protective and risk factors were identiﬁed for the marital relationship across the transition to parenthood. Recommendations were made to various stakeholders, as well as for future research.
Open Access
Medical tourism: experiences of international patients seeking inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa at Akeso Montrose Manor
(2021) Aron, Lauren; Williams, Fatima
This study explored the concept of medical tourism and the subjective experiences of international patients seeking inpatient eating disorder (ED) treatment at a private inpatient ED clinic in South Africa. This research aimed to shed light on what patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) feel are essential features of a high-quality ED service at Akeso Montrose Manor specifically, and what they found to be concerning about ED treatments received prior, especially in the United Kingdom. The research aimed to explore the participant's reasons for seeking treatment at Akeso Montrose Manor, their expectations of treatment, their experience of treatment and their recommendations regarding the treatment of international patients. Ex-patients from the United Kingdom were chosen for this study, as a high number of admissions for treatment at Akeso Montrose Manor are from the United Kingdom. This therefore provoked an interest in exploring the reasons why these patients search for specialised out-of-country treatment. The research was conducted using a qualitative research design. Twenty participants were selected using purposive sampling by the researcher. They were interviewed face-to-face and via Skype using a semi-structured interview schedule. The data obtained was analysed using qualitative methods. The findings of this study highlighted several difficulties experienced in the United Kingdom when seeking treatment and also highlighted the value of residential inpatient treatment centres, extended treatment for ED's and the importance of specialised ED treatment teams and units. The results included that participants came to South Africa, due to challenges experienced in accessing treatment in the United Kingdom and treatment largely being dictated by weight and focused mostly on weight restoration. Expectations met during their stay in South Africa, included structure, safety and specialised ED treatment and staff and expectations not met whilst in treatment at Akeso Montrose Manor included limited time with the dietician and psychiatrist, and their belief that they would be fixed post-discharge. Participants made recommendations for the clinic with regards to the treatment of international clientele, which included more focus on post discharge planning and support. Further recommendations were made for improved service delivery at Akeso Montrose Manor as well as further research.
Open Access
Neurofeedback as a treatment method: perceptions of the child and youth care workers at Durbanville children's home
(2019) van Vuuren, Alicia; Williams, Fatima
The study explored the perceptions of child and youth care workers employed at the Durbanville Children’s Home on Neurofeedback as a treatment method. It primarily considered the child and youth care workers opinions, as this target group is considered the primary carers of the children in the setting. The participants opinions are based on the implementation of Neurofeedback as a new treatment method within this organisation, what they would consider the perceptions of the children to be; challenges and benefits, as well their recommendations regarding the implementation of the treatment method in other child and youth care centres. This research was conducted using a qualitative research design. Eighteen participants were selected using purposive sampling at the Durbanville Children’s Home. Due to unforeseen circumstances, three participants were unable to complete the research study and terminated their involvement. As a result, fifteen participants therefore were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Each interview was recorded using a Dictaphone and was then transcribed. The data was analysed using qualitative methods of data analysis and Tesch’s eight step guideline. The findings of this study indicated that child and youth care workers have a basic understanding of Neurofeedback but that further in-depth training is still required. The interview findings indicated that the majority of participants were positive about the prospect of introducing Neurofeedback as a treatment method at the Durbanville Children’s Home. The findings highlighted that participants wanted the current treatment interventions offered at Durbanville Children’s Home to be further developed and expanded on. Participants also raised concerns and uncertainties they had over the treatment method including concerns over the treatment being too advanced to be used in a child and youth care setting and that the target group was not yet prepared for such an advanced intervention. The benefits of the treatment were perceived to include improvements in children’s behavioural, emotional and cognitive functioning. Challenges highlighted by the participants included negative perceptions some of the staff may have to introducing a new treatment model as well as anxieties the children may experience in receiving this form of treatment. Other challenges included the high financial cost and logistical aspects of implementing a new treatment method. The participants however, felt that the benefits of introducing Neurofeedback as a treatment method out-weighed these challenges. Recommendations were made with specific considerations to the implementation of Neurofeedback, the provision of training and information to both staff and children about this treatment method, specific recommendations regarding the role and tasks of staff as well as recommendations for future research.
Open Access
Oncology social workers: exploring their perceptions of work-related wellbeing
(2022) Clark, Mary Emma; Williams, Fatima
This study explored perceptions of work-related wellbeing among oncology social workers based in the private healthcare sector and in independent hospices in the Western Cape. The study aimed to explore the participants' understanding of the concept of work-related wellbeing, the possible promoting and inhibiting factors to work-related wellbeing and recommendations that they identified as important for the promotion of work-related wellbeing in oncology social work. This study employed a qualitative approach and it made use of an exploratory research design. Eighteen participants were selected, and the researcher used snowball sampling. In depth, one-to-one interviews were conducted online via the ‘Zoom' platform and the researcher made use of a semi-structured interview schedule. Qualitative research methods were used to analyse the data gathered from the interviews. This study revealed the complex nature of oncology social work, which is perceived to be a rewarding and challenging field of work. The findings revealed that work-related wellbeing is a multi-faceted concept, which can be promoted in several ways. Findings also revealed the factors which promote or inhibit the work-related wellbeing of oncology social workers. These were discussed according to organisational, occupational, psychological, and social factors. Participants discussed several key strategies that could be used to promote work-related wellbeing in the oncology social work context, which may mitigate against the onset of work-related stress and burnout. The most prominent strategies to emerge consistently in the findings refer to workplace social support, self-awareness, and reflective practice as well as the importance of practising self-care. The ability to find meaning in oncology social work was another significant promoting factor as it allowed the participants to derive satisfaction, and meaning from their work, notwithstanding the many challenges they face through working with death and dying. Participants had several recommendations to offer other oncology social workers and oncology organisations to promote work-related wellbeing. These were: workplace social support; selfcare; regular opportunities for continued professional development and training; as well as the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. Further recommendations were made to oncology organisations on the ways in which workplace social support could be encouraged and how regular opportunities for professional development and training could be offered to oncology social workers. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Open Access
The parental role in pre-school children
(2013) Wessels, Angela; Williams, Fatima
Includes abstract. Includes bibliographical references.
Open Access
Perceptions of race of coloured children in a child and youth care centre
(2012) Bruyns, Cindee; Williams, Fatima
This study was an exploration into the perceptions of race of coloured children in a child and youth care centre, Leliebloem House. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ways in which race is still present in the lives of these children, who were supposedly “untouched” by the former Apartheid dispensation.
Open Access
Perceptions of race of coloured children in a child and youth care centre
(2012) Bruyns, Cindee; Williams, Fatima
This study was an exploration into the perceptions of race of coloured children in a child and youth care centre, Leliebloem House. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ways in which race is still present in the lives of these children, who were supposedly “untouched” by the former Apartheid dispensation.
Open Access
Recognition of prior learning and identity transformation: Experiences of social work graduates in the Western Cape, South Africa
(2023) Williams, Fatima; Kubeka, Alvina
This qualitative study aimed to understand the meaning social work graduates who entered university via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) attach to their RPL experience and social work education. The goal was to determine whether participation in RPL and studying social work influences identity transformation at a micro level. The researcher intended to address the lacuna in extant knowledge on RPL which focusses on the macro and pedagogical considerations linked to RPL. She is confident that the study provides new knowledge on the influence of RPL and social work education at a micro level. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) design was used because of the intention to provide an in-depth understanding of the participants' experiences. The study included two universities offering social work programmes in the Western Cape, South Africa i.e. the University of the Western Cape and the University of Cape Town. Five participants were purposively selected from each institution and all the participants completed their social work education in the last five years. Three interviews, using semi-structured interview schedules, were conducted with each participant. The interviews were described and analysed using an amalgamation of the six steps of IPA data analysis. Transformative Learning Theory and Identity Theories were used as theoretical frameworks for the study because these theories address the macro issues related to higher education and account for the internal shifts that university learners can achieve. The results reveal that enrolling in the RPL programme and studying social work had been a transformative learning experience for the participants. The study further reveals that RPL promoted significant identity transformation for the participants and the results allude to the potential of RPL to be transformative at a micro level. The results further revealed that not only did participating in RPL and studying social work influence the participants' identities, but it also influenced their self-awareness and their behaviour. There were challenges with obtaining the sample and evidently RPL is underutilised in social work programmes in South Africa. The thesis thus includes recommendations for future research in RPL and to universities and social work programmes so that RPL can be strengthened.
Open Access
Relational Aggression and well-being: adolescent girls' perceptions of relational aggression and its influence on their lives
(2021) Nieuwenhuizen, Zuane; Williams, Fatima
The purpose of this research study was to explore adolescent girls' perceptions of relational aggression and its influence on their well-being. The study focussed specifically on relational aggression occurring within the school context. It explored participants' perceptions of relational aggression between adolescent girls in the school context, their personal experiences of relational aggression, the influence of relational aggression on their well-being and recommendations for addressing relational aggression in the school context. Research was conducted using a qualitative research design. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty participants. Data was collected through conducting face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. Qualitative methods were used to analyse the data obtained. The findings of this study emphasised the complexity of adolescent girls' perceptions and experiences of relational aggression in their lives. The findings illustrated the existence of relational aggression within the school context and that adolescent girls were both the victims and perpetrators of relational aggression at school. The findings further highlighted the negative emotions associated with experiencing relational aggression. The seriousness of the influence that relational aggression has on the well-being of adolescent girls was also highlighted in this study. This study focussed specifically on its influence on peer relationships, academic performance and self-esteem. Participants also made recommendations for addressing relational aggression in the school context. While taking the limitations of this study into account, the findings may benefit the Western Cape Department of Education and the research site in developing intervention strategies to address relational aggression between adolescent girls within the school context.
Open Access
Surrogate parenting : exploring the perceptions of challenges faced by grandmothers of AIDS orphans with regard to child rearing in Khayelitsha
(2010) Nyatsanza, Memory Nyasha Lynnette; Williams, Fatima
The research investigated the perceptions of the challenges faced by grandmothers caring for AIDS orphans in Khayelitsha, a township on the outskirts of Cape Town. The aim of this study was to make a contribution to an understanding of the challenges faced by grandmothers who are performing a surrogate parent role. The research focused on the grandmothers? perceptions of the types of challenges they faced in caring for AIDS orphans as well as their perceptions of the causes of these challenges. Lastly the research aimed to investigate the strategies employed by the grandmothers in dealing with these challenges and to ascertain whether or not grandmothers are aware of existing resources that are available to assist them with their challenges.
Open Access
The perceptions of the teaching staff regarding selection for the Bachelor of Social work (BSW) program at the University of Cape Town (UCT)
(2020) Khan, Latifa; Williams, Fatima
The Apartheid system had a tremendous effect on education in South Africa. Education occurred in segregated environments, controlled by the government. The racial differentiation in universities was a clear indication of what was occurring within the society. Post-Apartheid many reforms have been made towards ensuring equal access and redress of the past inequalities especially in education. With the huge responsibility being placed on social workers in working with vulnerable populations. The aim of social work education is to promote critical responsive practice and to train students to ensure effective service delivery. This study explores the perceptions of the teaching staff regarding selection for the Bachelor of Social work (BSW) program at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The study investigated the perceptions of the teaching staff regarding the current selection process at the University of Cape Town, the benefits of implementing a Bachelor of Social Work specific selection process, the possible challenges that could be encountered and the recommendations thereof. The study adopted a qualitative research approach where data was collected using a semi structured interview schedule. The population interviewed was the University of Cape Town Department of Social Development teaching staff. The findings of the study show that there is limited knowledge of the current selection process among the teaching staff as the university uses a generalised selection process managed by administrative staff. The results of the study reveal that implementing a specific selection process could promote a higher standard of practice and may improve the reputation of the social work profession. The findings further indicated that there could be variations between the department and the university requirements if the department was mandated to manage selection of its students therefore initiating conversations around selection could be valuable. Lastly the study recommends the need for a selection process that reflected not only on the academic ability but also the personal qualities of an applicant through submission of personal statements and motivational letters, and conducting oral and demonstration interviews.
Open Access
The transition to living in a university residence: first year students perceptions in this regard
(2024) Adams, Carima; Williams, Fatima
This study explored first year students' perceptions of the transition to living in a university residence at the University of Cape Town. It explored the positive and challenging aspects of adjusting to living in a residence as well as what support participants had received with this transition. Participants made recommendations to the university to assist students with the transition to living in a residence and to incoming first year students with regards to managing the transition to residence living. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach, more specifically an exploratory design. Nineteen participants who were first year students and had moved into a residence were purposively selected. They were interviewed online and in-person using a semi-structured interview schedule. The data obtained were analysed using qualitative methods. The findings of this study highlighted the experiences that first year students had when adjusting to residence life. Positive aspects in their transition were the convenience that residence offered, being independent and having freedom, flourishing, and having a roommate. Challenges included loneliness, catering in residences, the schedule of the residences and living with others. Areas of support that participants identified that assisted with their transition to residence were support from sub-wardens, mentors, and peers. Participants made recommendations to the university to assist students with the transition to living in a residence and this included improvements in the residence and increased support for students. Participants recommended that incoming first year students who are moving into a residence should make use of support services, prioritise their studies and focus on their selfdevelopment. Further recommendations were made to The Department of Student Affairs at UCT and recommendations for future research are included.

Browsing by Author "Williams, Fatima"

Results Per Page

Sort Options