Browsing by Subject "stressors"

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    A case study from the southern Cape linefishery 1: The difficulty of fishing in a changing world
    (2017) Gammage, Louise C; Mather, Charles
    Variability on multiple temporal and spatial scales exposes fishers and fishing communities to multiple stressors. The impact and interplay of these stressors need to be considered to improve our understanding of social-ecological linkages if sustainable livelihoods are to be promoted. To this end, participant-led research was conducted in the small-scale traditional commercial linefishery of the southern Cape (South Africa) between Witsand and Mossel Bay. Knowledge and perceptions regarding stressors responsible for changes in the social-ecological system, which ultimately affect the fishers’ ability to fish successfully, were recorded using semi-formal interviews and focus groups with 50 participants. The results presented not only offer valuable insights into the day-to-day experiences of these fishers, but also expose knowledge gaps that exist in micro-scale interactions influencing the fishery system. An analysis of various stressors is presented, which includes the impacts of and responses to climate variability; challenges presented by fisheries policies and regulatory frameworks; social and economic considerations; inadequate infrastructure; and general political considerations. The development of a more comprehensive understanding of stressors that affect the social-ecological system at various scales provides valuable insights into a fishery system that is currently not well described, and provides the basis for analyses into vulnerability and resilience.
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    Open Access
    Stressors and coping behaviours of caregivers and children across the pediatric HIV-disclosure stages in resource-limited settings
    (2024) Bustamam, Amy; Colvin, Christopher J; Leon, Natalie
    The stressful nature of pediatric HIV disclosure has contributed to the less than optimal disclosure rates in many resource-limited settings. This study examined the presence of disclosure stressors and coping behaviours used by South African caregivers and children during the disclosure phases to promote a healthy disclosure process. Disclosure experiences of 54 caregivers and 27 children (not-dyads) attending HIV-groups in Khyletisha were assessed using the directed approach to content analysis method to identify stressors and coping use. Data from six FGDs and eight IDIs were coded using predetermined coping batteries. 10 disclosure stressors and 12 coping behaviours were identified. Transcripts revealed that the common barriers reported in the literature, like HIV-stigma and caregiver unpreparedness, functioned as stressors influencing the use of coping mechanisms. Identified Adaptive coping strategies included: Social Support, Restraint Coping, Selective Disclosure, Active Coping/Problem Solving, Positive Thinking/Cognitive Restructuring, Religious Coping, Acceptance, and Information seeking, which often encouraged full disclosure, brought resolution to stressful situations, maintained positive self-esteem, or encouraged adherence to ART. Maladaptive coping behaviours included: Behavioural Disengagement, Confrontive Coping, Escape-Avoidance/Tension Reduction, and Suicidal. Throughout the disclosure stages, coping behaviours dynamically changed to perceived consequences/stressors (i.e potential stigmatization) and changing situational dynamics. Coping use and recommendations for disclosure interventions were discussed. Coaching of healthy coping strategies to caregivers and children is essential in combating the stressful nature of disclosure and critical in promoting adequate disclosure processes, outcomes, and timely disclosure.