Browsing by Subject "Society"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Open Access
    How to Create Monsters? A preliminary examination approach to the role of the social environment in relation to the origin of South African serial killers
    (2021) Wehner, Jana; Phelps, Kelly
    The phenomenon of serial killers is a fascinating topic for readers, as well as for researchers. This dissertation is going to expand the steadily growing stock of literature regarding the origin of serial killers, but with a focus on the social environment. As the social environment differs from country to country, depending on cultures, history, societies, and economic circumstances, it is important to take a South African perspective when studying the social environment of individuals in South Africa. After explaining the different approaches to define the term `serial killer´, this paper provides a solid review of previous research on the origin of serial homicide in South Africa. While presenting the most popular theories on the origin and development of serial killers in South Africa, it becomes evident that the social environment has never been considered to be a factor that might play a role. This paper criticises the fact that an examination of the social environment of serial killers has been absent in previous research on the development of serial killers. Consequently, it makes it its task to examine the social environment of South African serial killers via multiple case studies. Six South African serial killer cases are presented and the social environment of the individuals is explained. Moreover, similarities between the cases and other conspicuities are pieced together and analysed, followed by a discussion on how they might have an impact on a serial killer. Additionally, the paper gives some food for thought on why the social environment in South African townships is so fertile for serial killers to offend and what cultural and historical circumstances might play a role in developing such an environment. Providing incentives for further in-depth research here and there, this research expands the steadily growing body of literature on serial killers from a South African perspective. The paper concludes that the social environment of serial killers is a huge and interesting subject area, with many possible influencing factors that are therefore worth exploring further. Additionally, this paper proposes that the social environment should be taken into account when researching serial killers in general, and especially their origin and development. This paper takes the initiative to research the social environment as an independent factor within the phenomenon of serial killers. It proposes a preliminary examination approach to the role of the social environment in relation to the origin of South African serial killers for the purpose of drawing attention to the importance of including it when researching serial killers to generate a better understanding of the origin of serial killers and the phenomenon in general.
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Open Access
    Women in blue: Meaning and identity perspectives of policewomen within the South African Police Services in the Cape Town Metropolitan area.
    (2024) Zondeka, Kuhle Nwabisa; Kinnes, Irvin
    South Africa grapples with a policing crisis marked by rising gender-based violence, corruption, high violent crime rates, robbery, and murder. Effective solutions to improve policing require holistic police reform, addressing internal issues including gender inequality. This study examines the experiences of policewomen in the South African Police Service (SAPS), uncovering their challenges with their male counterparts in the workplace as well as the communities they serve in. Through open-ended interviews, the research reveals discrimination based on capabilities, workplace sexual harassment, and societal devaluation of policewomen as challenges policewomen experience. By applying an intersectional feminist lens, the study recognises the intricate identities of policewomen that are shaped by the intersection of gender and race in a male-dominated society. Policewomen in the SAPS face consistent and constant challenges, however, they continue to demonstrate resilience against mistreatment from colleagues, the public, and superiors. The study concluded that the experience of being a woman in the SAPS defies a simple narrative and lacks a clear formula. This unique experience demands constant efforts to overcome adversities and contribute to changing dynamics within policing. Furthermore, the study showed that policewomen play a crucial role in police reform, standing resilient amid challenges, exemplifying strength, and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable policing environment.