Abstract
M.Ed. (Educational Psychology)
In the context of poverty, political turmoil and HIV/AIDS, it has become more difficult for parents to take care of their children accordingly. This problem is especially pronounced in Africa and contributes to the formation of child- and youth-headed households (CYHHs). The emergence of such households places children and youth at risk of vulnerability to exploitation, poverty and lack of access to education and resources. This means that these children and youth need to fend and provide for themselves. Given the dominant position of boys in African cultures, they may be in a better position to take care of and provide for their families. Therefore, the aim of this study is to describe and understand the gendered experiences of 12- to 14-year-old African male learners living in CYHHs and, based on this, to suggest possible support interventions to assist them.
A qualitative multiple case study design was used, where seven male learners from the Soweto area participated in the data collection process. These learners were identified through a non-profit organisation (NPO) in the Soweto area. The data collection process included the use of individual interviews, collages, and essays. These were analysed using qualitative content analysis methods, as stipulated by Zhang and Wildemuth (2009). The study is explorative in nature and, given the issues of gender being addressed, a social constructionist paradigm was used. The theoretical framework included the works of two prominent theorists in the field of developmental psychology – Erikson (1963, 1968) and Nsamenang (1992, 2005, 2006). Erikson provides valuable insights into the psychosocial experiences of adolescents, whereas Nsamenang explains the relevance of development in an African context. Their ideas were used to understand the findings in relation to the development of the participants.