Abstract
M.Ed.
Over the past decade, the HIV/AIDS pandemic has had a devastating effect on many communities and families in South Africa. Many families have already lost, and many more will lose, primary caregivers to the disease. This could have a serious impact on the living conditions and emotional wellbeing of families, and especially of children and adolescents. As an intern educational psychologist working in the Eldorado Park community, the researcher became aware of the difficulties and needs experienced by families that are affected by HIV/AIDS.
This study therefore aims to identify the needs of families affected by HIV/AIDS, in order to assist the educational psychologist by making recommendations for weaving a circle of care to support them, within an asset-based approach. To accomplish this, the study utilised a participatory research approach within a critical theoretical paradigm and case study design. Purposeful selection was employed and as the study is concerned with HIV/AIDS which requires the utmost confidentiality, the families were identified with the help of home-based care workers. The researcher interviewed three families and eight home-based care workers in the Eldorado Park community.
Detailed data analysis and interpretation of the needs highlighted during these interviews revealed a number of common themes, which are indicative of the needs of families affected by HIV/AIDS in the Eldorado Park area.
These families expressed a need for awareness, love and understanding from their communities. They also wish to have greater understanding and support from schools, as well as expressing the need for opportunities to share their experiences and raise community awareness by speaking at schools and churches, and through support groups. Families furthermore require assistance with the great economic difficulties they face, largely due to illness and unemployment. A need to gain greater access to medical care, social grants and burial societies, was expressed. Difficulties with transport and documentation seemed to create a major barrier in this regard. The need for psychological and spiritual counselling as well as legal advice was highlighted.
The study provides recommendations and a practical asset map to assist the educational psychologist in weaving a circle of care for families affected by HIV/AIDS.
Mrs. Helen Krige
Dr. Elzette Fritz