Pilot Mudhovozi

Indigenous healing practices in Limpopo Province of South Africa: A qualitative study

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate traditional healing practices among the Venda and Tsonga speaking people of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study employed a qualitative design. Four traditional healers, selected through purposive sampling were asked to participate in the present study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. Seven themes emerged from the narratives of the four participants. The seven themes identified are: a) the process of becoming a traditional healer; b) family and community reactions to the chosen career; c) patients treated; d) types of illnesses treated; e) diagnostic procedures used; f) treatment methods used; and, g) the notion of ethics by traditional healers. The study puts in perspective the ethical issues of competence, dealing with minor children and confidentiality. Some of the challenges associated with collaboration between traditional healing and the Western health care system are highlighted by the traditional healers.

Social and Academic Adjustment of First-Year University Students

Abstract The study investigated the social and academic experiences of first year students at a university in Zimbabwe. A phenomenological research design was used to conduct the study. Respondents were seven purposefully sampled first year students (N = 7: males = 3, females = 4, mean age = 24.4 years; age ranging between 18 and 36 years). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each respondent. Content analysis of the responses showed that first year students experienced varied social and academic adjustment problems. The students over-relied on social networks and efficacious beliefs to cope with the challenges. The students need to be exposed to various coping resources to enable them to quickly and smoothly adjust into the new life at university.

Socio-demographic Factors Influencing Career Decision-making among Undergraduate Psychology Students in South Africa

Abstract The study explored the socio-demographic factors that anchor career choice among psychology students at the University of Venda in South Africa. Ex post facto research design was employed. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The chi-square and t-test were used to test differences in the data profiles. Response frequencies and corresponding percentages were calculated. Results showed that the participants attended rural-situated public schools. Most had either both parents with post secondary education or both parents with below secondary education. The majority of the participants made delayed career decisions. The participants were mainly influenced by parents, teachers and friends to choose psychology as a career. The most common method of funding was the bursary. The majority of students chose psychology after completing their secondary education. The present study needs to be replicated with a larger sample drawn from diverse academic disciplines and institutions of higher learning for generalisability of the findings.

Child Abuse: Psychosocial and Religious Intervention Strategies in Zimbabwe

The article examines psychosocial and religious intervention strategies used to prevent and manage child abuse in Zimbabwe. Psychosocial interventions used include primary, secondary and tertiary interventions. Religious interventions include primary and tertiary intervention. It appears that the intervention strategies are used mostly by professionals who offer psychosocial support than by religious organizations.

Smoking and Self-justification among University Students

Abstract The present study explored university students’ perceptions of cigarette smoking. A sample of 60 participants who were attending a leadership training course for student leaders was selected. A 16 – item questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather their opinions on cigarette smoking. The study found that there was a high prevalence of cigarette smoking among the students. The onset of smoking was high at high school with a comparable proportion at university level. The main agents of influences were peers, television and radio. There was a high level of awareness of the effects of cigarette smoking, although, perceived benefits were cited as selfjustification for smoking. Most of the participants expressed willingness to quit smoking and suggested the use of lectures and graphic images as effective strategies for anti-smoking campaigns. The study recommended further research to explore gender differentiation on smoking.

Mapping the Misunderstood Non-traditional Male

Abstract Life at institutions of higher education can be confusing and demanding for non-traditional male students. They non-traditional students have a different set of demands on their time and lifestyle that make them unique. The paper explores the experiences of non-traditional male undergraduate students. The study was conducted at an institution of higher education in Southern Africa. Eight non-traditional male students were purposively selected for the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study revealed the students pursued their studies for diverse motives. The multiple roles are both beneficial and costly to their studies and families. There was no indication that they consulted their peers and use support services at the university to deal with their unique situations. The findings underscore the need for university counsellors to help non-traditional students adapt to the multiple roles of student, spouse and parent. Academic and non-academic units at the University should tailor their programmes to meet the unique academic, economic and psychosocial needs of non-traditional students.

A Survey of Job Satisfaction of Employees at Higher Learning Institutions in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract The study investigated job satisfaction among employees of higher education institutions. One hundred and fifty academic and non-academic staff (male=75; female=75; age range: 24 to 54) participated in the study. A group-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The study found that few (69) employees were satisfied with their jobs. Of these, more female than male and younger than older employees reported that they were satisfied with their jobs. In addition, job satisfaction decreased with a rise in academic qualifications. Further research should investigate the nature and magnitude of the influence of gender, age and educational level on job satisfaction among employees.

Caring for children with mental retardation : the experiences of Vhavenda mothers

Leisure, a multi-dimensional construct, is a force for transforming communities and economies ~ promoting meaning, value and assisting in securing a higher quality of life. Difficult to define, leisure is essential in building a sense of community. This paper will explore a mix of elements that promote community livability. More specifically, rankings of cities and the elements contributing to these rankings of communities reported as being most active, ecofriendly, healthiest and quality of living are examined. In addition, a recent study of global model cities in terms of leisure development will be reviewed. The shared elements of these rankings of cities have then been detailed, reflecting the attributes of the attractiveness or livability of a city or community. Among these attributes are: 1) natural factors; 2) social factors; 3) historical factors; 4) leisure factors; and 5) infrastructure, food and shelter. All of the elements and criteria used in city rankings have been incorporated into a framework for promoting community livability including: 1) embracing the principles of community greening; 2) enhancement of community attractiveness; 3) opportunities for social, cultural and leisure participation; 4) programmes that provide opportunities for civic participation; 5) heritage management; 6) use of alternative and renewable sources of energy; and 7) economic development focused on leisure. Keywords : Leisure, community life, community aspirations, community livability, framework for community livability.

Adjustment Experiences of International Students at a South African University

The study explored the experiences of international students at a South African university. A purposeful sample of seven international students were the participants (males = 3, females = 4, age range = 22 to 28 years). Content analysis of the responses showed that international students experienced both academic and social challenges. The students reported using personal and environmentally focused control strategies to cope with adjustment problems.

Academic Counselling for Graduate Research Students with Distance Learning

The study examined academic counselling needs for graduate research students enrolled with a distance education university. Participants were 17 students (males = 10, females = 7; mean years of enrollment =1). They responded to an open ended questionnaire on pertinent counselling needs in these students related to their studies. Data were analyzed qualitatively using thematic content analysis. Findings suggested counselling needs from conflicting work and family commitments. Accessibility and user-friendliness of administrative systems and support, ease of contact and approachability of academic staff and financial strain were also significant concerns. Prospective solutions to these needs included stress management, time management, self-study skills and income generation.