Debt literacy of first year students : the University of Johannesburg
- Authors: Boyce, Lulama
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College students - South Africa - Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students , Financial literacy - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - South Africa - Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225518 , uj:22779
- Description: Abstract: The challenge of funding by higher education institutions has been placed in the spotlight as students demanded a no fee increase in their fees for the 2016 academic year as well as free education in the long term. This has highlighted the lack of sufficient funding options available to students as well as the prevalence of the acquisition of debt from the first-year of studies. This raises the question of how well-equipped students are at managing their educational debt. This study assesses the debt literacy levels of students at the University of Johannesburg. The survey was conducted using a self-assessment questionnaire completed by each participant who was registered for a first-year module in various departments at the Soweto Campus. The average debt literacy score was 1.67 out of 5 indicating that students entering higher education have low levels of knowledge with regards to management of debt, especially with regards to concepts of simple and compound interest. The study shows that subject choice of Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy had a significant influence on debt literacy scores. This study is important in identifying gaps in the financial knowledge of students in relation to debt. It also highlights factors that may have influenced the debt knowledge of the students. , M.Com. (Financial Management)
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- Authors: Boyce, Lulama
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College students - South Africa - Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students , Financial literacy - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - South Africa - Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225518 , uj:22779
- Description: Abstract: The challenge of funding by higher education institutions has been placed in the spotlight as students demanded a no fee increase in their fees for the 2016 academic year as well as free education in the long term. This has highlighted the lack of sufficient funding options available to students as well as the prevalence of the acquisition of debt from the first-year of studies. This raises the question of how well-equipped students are at managing their educational debt. This study assesses the debt literacy levels of students at the University of Johannesburg. The survey was conducted using a self-assessment questionnaire completed by each participant who was registered for a first-year module in various departments at the Soweto Campus. The average debt literacy score was 1.67 out of 5 indicating that students entering higher education have low levels of knowledge with regards to management of debt, especially with regards to concepts of simple and compound interest. The study shows that subject choice of Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy had a significant influence on debt literacy scores. This study is important in identifying gaps in the financial knowledge of students in relation to debt. It also highlights factors that may have influenced the debt knowledge of the students. , M.Com. (Financial Management)
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Seeking barriers to the development of knowledge transgressivity potential (KTP) : lessons from a postgraduate student survey at the University of Johannesburg
- Dworzanowski-Venter, Bronwyn, Chagonda, Tapiwa
- Authors: Dworzanowski-Venter, Bronwyn , Chagonda, Tapiwa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge transgressivity potential , University of Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5598 , ISSN 09766634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14311
- Description: Institutional mergers coupled with the distinction between teaching-focused ‘comprehensives’ and traditional, research-intensive universities are evidence of differentiation in action within South African higher education. Comprehensive institutions such as the University of Johannesburg (UJ) are relatively underresearched. A UJ-based survey of postgraduate students (n=300) suggests the possibility of knowledge transgressivity within and outside of UJ. However, the development of a transdisciplinary platform [to facilitate the evolution of knowledge transgressivity potential (KTP)] between natural and social science-focused postgraduates, is likely limited by perceptual class and race barriers, with the former proving most influential. Moreover, inter institutionalKTP between UJ, as a comprehensive, and WITS, as a traditional university, is present, but limited by material class barriers, such as fees differentials. Nevertheless, findings suggest that KTP could be developed at the junior postgraduate level if class perceptions and structural legacies are to be overcome. Comprehensives like UJ are capable of more than solely fulfilling an undergraduate teaching function as such, they should enjoy more research attention. While all South African universities contribute to transformation and competitiveness in distinct ways, the rigid demarcation, and potentially inadvertent ‘privileging’ of some South African universities, should be avoided. This is critical as such demarcation cannot lead to long-term institutional integration and increased potential for true knowledge transgressivity.
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- Authors: Dworzanowski-Venter, Bronwyn , Chagonda, Tapiwa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge transgressivity potential , University of Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5598 , ISSN 09766634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14311
- Description: Institutional mergers coupled with the distinction between teaching-focused ‘comprehensives’ and traditional, research-intensive universities are evidence of differentiation in action within South African higher education. Comprehensive institutions such as the University of Johannesburg (UJ) are relatively underresearched. A UJ-based survey of postgraduate students (n=300) suggests the possibility of knowledge transgressivity within and outside of UJ. However, the development of a transdisciplinary platform [to facilitate the evolution of knowledge transgressivity potential (KTP)] between natural and social science-focused postgraduates, is likely limited by perceptual class and race barriers, with the former proving most influential. Moreover, inter institutionalKTP between UJ, as a comprehensive, and WITS, as a traditional university, is present, but limited by material class barriers, such as fees differentials. Nevertheless, findings suggest that KTP could be developed at the junior postgraduate level if class perceptions and structural legacies are to be overcome. Comprehensives like UJ are capable of more than solely fulfilling an undergraduate teaching function as such, they should enjoy more research attention. While all South African universities contribute to transformation and competitiveness in distinct ways, the rigid demarcation, and potentially inadvertent ‘privileging’ of some South African universities, should be avoided. This is critical as such demarcation cannot lead to long-term institutional integration and increased potential for true knowledge transgressivity.
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Black single student-mothers at UJ : managing the demands of studying and parenting
- Authors: Masilela, Banele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Single mothers - Education (Higher) , Women college students - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410917 , uj:34508
- Description: Abstract: Parenthood is a phase that brings major changes in the lives of men and women. While these changes should naturally be experienced by both parents, there is a growing population of single parents who are mothers. Young women are filtering into the university sphere and in the process are also becoming single student-mothers. Experiences and challenges of single student-mothers while they enter the university as mothers or become mothers while enrolled in a particular qualification remains obscure. Single student-mothers studying towards their qualification face certain challenges while doing so. Therefore, assistance, guidance and support are expected to be provided by the family and the university as this can influence completion of their qualification and challenges will be experienced differently if there is support. There is inadequate literature that places emphasis on the experiences of student-mothers in South Africa therefore, the rationale of this study was to explore the experiences of single student-mothers within the context of South Africa and their experience of motherhood. International literature displays that single student-mothers are a population that exists within higher education institutions who at times require support, assistance and to be seen and incorporated in university policies. Obtaining a qualification can provide a means of financial stability and independence for many student-mothers. The surge of father absence is mainly due to the disappointment of fathers in becoming primary caregivers to their children. The study seeks to understand the experiences and challenges that undergraduate single student-mothers tackle. Data for this qualitative study was collected utilising in-depth interviews in understanding the above-mentioned group. A total of eight black single student-mothers amid the ages of 20 and 33 participated in this study. All participants were unmarried when data collection took place. Key findings for this study revealed that participants’ main source of support was from family; mainly the parents of the student-mother. Receiving maintenance was a challenge for most single student-mothers as biological fathers only played the role of ‘Instagram dad’ and were labelled as a ‘deadbeat dad’ as they do not actively play a role in their children’s lives. The South African social grant is an aid used mostly by women in order to support their children. Those participants who receive the social grant use it for various things other than the basic needs of providing food and education for the recipients of the grant. , M.A. (Sociology)
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- Authors: Masilela, Banele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Single mothers - Education (Higher) , Women college students - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410917 , uj:34508
- Description: Abstract: Parenthood is a phase that brings major changes in the lives of men and women. While these changes should naturally be experienced by both parents, there is a growing population of single parents who are mothers. Young women are filtering into the university sphere and in the process are also becoming single student-mothers. Experiences and challenges of single student-mothers while they enter the university as mothers or become mothers while enrolled in a particular qualification remains obscure. Single student-mothers studying towards their qualification face certain challenges while doing so. Therefore, assistance, guidance and support are expected to be provided by the family and the university as this can influence completion of their qualification and challenges will be experienced differently if there is support. There is inadequate literature that places emphasis on the experiences of student-mothers in South Africa therefore, the rationale of this study was to explore the experiences of single student-mothers within the context of South Africa and their experience of motherhood. International literature displays that single student-mothers are a population that exists within higher education institutions who at times require support, assistance and to be seen and incorporated in university policies. Obtaining a qualification can provide a means of financial stability and independence for many student-mothers. The surge of father absence is mainly due to the disappointment of fathers in becoming primary caregivers to their children. The study seeks to understand the experiences and challenges that undergraduate single student-mothers tackle. Data for this qualitative study was collected utilising in-depth interviews in understanding the above-mentioned group. A total of eight black single student-mothers amid the ages of 20 and 33 participated in this study. All participants were unmarried when data collection took place. Key findings for this study revealed that participants’ main source of support was from family; mainly the parents of the student-mother. Receiving maintenance was a challenge for most single student-mothers as biological fathers only played the role of ‘Instagram dad’ and were labelled as a ‘deadbeat dad’ as they do not actively play a role in their children’s lives. The South African social grant is an aid used mostly by women in order to support their children. Those participants who receive the social grant use it for various things other than the basic needs of providing food and education for the recipients of the grant. , M.A. (Sociology)
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UJ postgraduate students’ perceptions and awareness around safe sex services and activities
- Authors: Matanhire, Chipo Precious
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Save sex in AIDS prevention - South Africa - Johannesburg , Sexology - South Africa - Johannesburg , Female condoms , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410925 , uj:34509
- Description: Abstract: Engaging in safe sex practices seems to be a challenge in South Africa. It is one of the countries with the highest number of people infected with HIV/AIDS. In SA amongst the most vulnerable population that is infected by HIV at a higher percentage is youth, specifically, women. Youths also occupy a large percentage of the population among students in South African Educational Institutions. Safe sex research conducted among university students is acknowledged as it contributes towards addressing the social issue of HIV/AIDS. This research report provides qualitative findings on perceptions of the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) postgraduate students around safe sex practices as well as their awareness around safe sex services offered by UJ’s Institutional Office for HIV and AIDS (IOHA). Some of the safe sex practices and services included male condoms, female condoms, masturbation, peer education, HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and HIV/AIDS Counselling and Testing. A descriptive and explorative research design was used in this study. An explorative design was applied because after conducting literature review, it was discovered that the area is not relatively known. A descriptive design was also applied. This enabled the researcher to describe phenomena of postgraduate students precisely using their narrative descriptions. The study gathered data through interviews where the researcher transcribed spoken language before analysing it. Therefore, qualitative research approach was used. The researcher used semi-structured data gathering method where key questions were developed and used in defining the area of safe sex. Using semi-structured interviews through probing, the researcher gained a detailed view of the participants’ perceptions and awareness around safe sex practices and services. A smart phone was used as a research instrument to audio record the interviews. A sample of six UJ postgraduate students aged between 23-25 years was recruited for the study. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were used in analysing data to gain understanding of awareness and perceptions of UJ postgraduate students around safe sex practises and services offered by IOHA. Using Sexual Empowerment Theory, this report evaluates students’ safe sex negotiating skills, attitude towards safe sex practices, students’ level of safe sex self-efficacy, students’ level of selfesteem in practising safe sex and students’ knowledge around safe sex practices and services. This study adds value in that it is contributing to the literature conducted on safe sex in Higher Education Institutions like the University of Johannesburg with limited researches conducted in the safe sex area of study. It is also contributing to future research and research process that focuses on sensitive topics like safe sex. , M.A. (Clinical Social Work)
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- Authors: Matanhire, Chipo Precious
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Save sex in AIDS prevention - South Africa - Johannesburg , Sexology - South Africa - Johannesburg , Female condoms , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410925 , uj:34509
- Description: Abstract: Engaging in safe sex practices seems to be a challenge in South Africa. It is one of the countries with the highest number of people infected with HIV/AIDS. In SA amongst the most vulnerable population that is infected by HIV at a higher percentage is youth, specifically, women. Youths also occupy a large percentage of the population among students in South African Educational Institutions. Safe sex research conducted among university students is acknowledged as it contributes towards addressing the social issue of HIV/AIDS. This research report provides qualitative findings on perceptions of the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) postgraduate students around safe sex practices as well as their awareness around safe sex services offered by UJ’s Institutional Office for HIV and AIDS (IOHA). Some of the safe sex practices and services included male condoms, female condoms, masturbation, peer education, HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and HIV/AIDS Counselling and Testing. A descriptive and explorative research design was used in this study. An explorative design was applied because after conducting literature review, it was discovered that the area is not relatively known. A descriptive design was also applied. This enabled the researcher to describe phenomena of postgraduate students precisely using their narrative descriptions. The study gathered data through interviews where the researcher transcribed spoken language before analysing it. Therefore, qualitative research approach was used. The researcher used semi-structured data gathering method where key questions were developed and used in defining the area of safe sex. Using semi-structured interviews through probing, the researcher gained a detailed view of the participants’ perceptions and awareness around safe sex practices and services. A smart phone was used as a research instrument to audio record the interviews. A sample of six UJ postgraduate students aged between 23-25 years was recruited for the study. Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis were used in analysing data to gain understanding of awareness and perceptions of UJ postgraduate students around safe sex practises and services offered by IOHA. Using Sexual Empowerment Theory, this report evaluates students’ safe sex negotiating skills, attitude towards safe sex practices, students’ level of safe sex self-efficacy, students’ level of selfesteem in practising safe sex and students’ knowledge around safe sex practices and services. This study adds value in that it is contributing to the literature conducted on safe sex in Higher Education Institutions like the University of Johannesburg with limited researches conducted in the safe sex area of study. It is also contributing to future research and research process that focuses on sensitive topics like safe sex. , M.A. (Clinical Social Work)
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Prevalence of Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and determinants of treatment seeking behaviours among University of Johannesburg students
- Molaba, Mmakonka Dinpho Christina
- Authors: Molaba, Mmakonka Dinpho Christina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stress (Psychology) , Post-traumatic stress disorder - Treatment , University of Johannesburg - Students , Mental health counseling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420428 , uj:35796
- Description: Abstract: Studies have recognized that violence in South Africa is on the increase and has led to high levels of exposure to traumatic incidents and increased vulnerability to trauma. The current study assessed the prevalence of Complex Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), exposure to traumatic events and treatment seeking behavior among 403 psychology undergraduate students at the University of Johannesburg. The sample consisted of females (n =300) and males (n =103). This study was quantitative in nature and a survey method were employed to gather data for the study. Initial Trauma Review (ITR-R) was used to assess most major forms of trauma; Trauma Symptom Checklist (TSC) was used to assess symptoms associated with exposure to traumatic experiences. Lastly, self-constructed health seeking behavior questionnaire was used to determine treatment seeking behaviors of the students. The statistical package for social sciences program (SPSS) and descriptive analysis were used in data analysis. Majority of respondents had witnessed at least some sort of traumatic event(s) in their lifetime. These results are in line with the existing literature on the prevalence of traumatic events. The results on health-seeking behavior of the participants indicated the need for professional health with most participants preferring to speak to either a psychologist or psychiatrist. This study indicated that the prevalence rates are likely high since South African children and youth are exposed to high levels of violence. Further research is required due to the paucity of data in this area of complex trauma in South Africa. , M.A. (Research Psychology)
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- Authors: Molaba, Mmakonka Dinpho Christina
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stress (Psychology) , Post-traumatic stress disorder - Treatment , University of Johannesburg - Students , Mental health counseling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420428 , uj:35796
- Description: Abstract: Studies have recognized that violence in South Africa is on the increase and has led to high levels of exposure to traumatic incidents and increased vulnerability to trauma. The current study assessed the prevalence of Complex Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), exposure to traumatic events and treatment seeking behavior among 403 psychology undergraduate students at the University of Johannesburg. The sample consisted of females (n =300) and males (n =103). This study was quantitative in nature and a survey method were employed to gather data for the study. Initial Trauma Review (ITR-R) was used to assess most major forms of trauma; Trauma Symptom Checklist (TSC) was used to assess symptoms associated with exposure to traumatic experiences. Lastly, self-constructed health seeking behavior questionnaire was used to determine treatment seeking behaviors of the students. The statistical package for social sciences program (SPSS) and descriptive analysis were used in data analysis. Majority of respondents had witnessed at least some sort of traumatic event(s) in their lifetime. These results are in line with the existing literature on the prevalence of traumatic events. The results on health-seeking behavior of the participants indicated the need for professional health with most participants preferring to speak to either a psychologist or psychiatrist. This study indicated that the prevalence rates are likely high since South African children and youth are exposed to high levels of violence. Further research is required due to the paucity of data in this area of complex trauma in South Africa. , M.A. (Research Psychology)
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Assessment of awareness, knowledge, attitude towards the human papillomavirus infection and vaccine acceptability among University of Johannesburg students
- Authors: Ncube, Itai Tendai
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Papillomaviruses , Papillomavirus diseases , University of Johannesburg - Students , Cervix uteri - Cancer
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292897 , uj:31837
- Description: M.Tech. (Biomedical Technology) , Abstract: Background: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in South Africa. Increasing evidence suggests that HPV is implicated in 99.7% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. In South Africa, the highest infection rates of HPV are found in sexually active women under the age of 25 years. The burden of cervical cancer is compounded by the high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and a lack of a cervical screening programme. Risk factors include sexual debut at an early age, smoking, previous history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and multiple sexual partners. College students are often perceived as being at high risk due to peer pressure, which often leads to risky sexual behaviour. Given the high burden of HPV infection and cervical cancer deaths in South Africa, there is a need to educate and raise awareness of HPV infection and the HPV vaccine among young adults under the age of 25 years. This study was undertaken to assess the awareness, knowledge, attitude towards HPV and vaccine acceptability among the University of Johannesburg students. Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 150 conveniently selected University of Johannesburg students was conducted from July to October 2017. The respondents were selected proportionally from each of the four campuses of the University of Johannesburg. A self-administered structured questionnaire was utilised to collect information on socio-demographic factors, sexual behaviour, awareness and knowledge of HPV infection as well the vaccine, the willingness to recommend HPV vaccine and preferred source of information about HPV. The Pearson Chi-square test or Fischer exact test were used comparative analysis between factors that influenced HPV awareness. Sociodemographic and behaviour characteristics of the respondents are presented in graphs, charts, frequencies, percentages and standard deviation. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with being aware of HPV. Results: HPV awareness was poor, with 32.7% (49) of the students reported to have heard about HPV. Of these, 38 of the students knew that HPV is the cause of cervical cancer and 66 (44%) were aware that they could be easily infected with HPV. Only 18.7% of participants knew of the HPV vaccine and 33.3% of these knew that the vaccine protected against cervical cancer. Female participants were three times more likely to be aware of HPV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.09-7.84, p=...
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- Authors: Ncube, Itai Tendai
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Papillomaviruses , Papillomavirus diseases , University of Johannesburg - Students , Cervix uteri - Cancer
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292897 , uj:31837
- Description: M.Tech. (Biomedical Technology) , Abstract: Background: The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in South Africa. Increasing evidence suggests that HPV is implicated in 99.7% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. In South Africa, the highest infection rates of HPV are found in sexually active women under the age of 25 years. The burden of cervical cancer is compounded by the high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and a lack of a cervical screening programme. Risk factors include sexual debut at an early age, smoking, previous history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and multiple sexual partners. College students are often perceived as being at high risk due to peer pressure, which often leads to risky sexual behaviour. Given the high burden of HPV infection and cervical cancer deaths in South Africa, there is a need to educate and raise awareness of HPV infection and the HPV vaccine among young adults under the age of 25 years. This study was undertaken to assess the awareness, knowledge, attitude towards HPV and vaccine acceptability among the University of Johannesburg students. Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 150 conveniently selected University of Johannesburg students was conducted from July to October 2017. The respondents were selected proportionally from each of the four campuses of the University of Johannesburg. A self-administered structured questionnaire was utilised to collect information on socio-demographic factors, sexual behaviour, awareness and knowledge of HPV infection as well the vaccine, the willingness to recommend HPV vaccine and preferred source of information about HPV. The Pearson Chi-square test or Fischer exact test were used comparative analysis between factors that influenced HPV awareness. Sociodemographic and behaviour characteristics of the respondents are presented in graphs, charts, frequencies, percentages and standard deviation. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with being aware of HPV. Results: HPV awareness was poor, with 32.7% (49) of the students reported to have heard about HPV. Of these, 38 of the students knew that HPV is the cause of cervical cancer and 66 (44%) were aware that they could be easily infected with HPV. Only 18.7% of participants knew of the HPV vaccine and 33.3% of these knew that the vaccine protected against cervical cancer. Female participants were three times more likely to be aware of HPV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.09-7.84, p=...
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From “miscegenophobia” to the “rainbow”?: disclosure and concealment in selected UJ students’ interracial romantic relationships
- Authors: Ngcongo, Mthobeli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Interracial dating - South Africa , Interethnic dating - South Africa , Miscegenation - South Africa , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/279008 , uj:29951
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. (Fundamental Communication Theories) , Abstract: Despite romantic attachments being a pervasive and a universally shared pursuit it is surprising that there remain many unanswered questions about love and romance in Africa. The situation is even more complex in South Africa given the history and legacy of apartheid which made societal division along racial lines a norm, limiting intimate relations between the racial groupings. When we study interracial communication from the vantage point of romantic relationships, a clearer understanding of the extent to which progress has been made in interpersonal communication in post-apartheid emerges. As opposed to investigating the attitudes of society in general, I thought it more fruitful to investigate the attitudes of the friends and family of interracial couples from the perspective of couples themselves. The dialectic frameworks of Impression Management and Communication Privacy Management offered nuanced lenses from which to investigate the surveillance dimension in interracial romantic relationships in post-apartheid South Africa. Through qualitative in depth interviews, I set out to investigate how and why interracial couples experience tensions between expressing intimacy in privacy and having to disclose their relationship to friends and family. Findings suggest that although couples often negotiated rules to regulate privacy about their relationship, these rules were enacted through various communicative regimes and strategies. Because disclosing to friends about the interracial romantic relationship was less complicated, the privacy and disclosure tension as well as impression management strategies that followed manifested itself more with family. Partners’ acute awareness of the attitudes that their friends and family hold toward those of a different race meant that disclosing the relationship to the family was often seen as the next step in taking the relationship further. Thus managing disclosure and concealment patterns about the romantic relationship was a way of living with the stigma of the forbidden. Managing disclosure and concealment of the status of interracial romantic relationships cannot simply be associated with just the desire to nurture a newly formed romantic relationship. Race consciousness is an inexorable part of the management regime of interracial romantic relationships...
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- Authors: Ngcongo, Mthobeli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Interracial dating - South Africa , Interethnic dating - South Africa , Miscegenation - South Africa , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/279008 , uj:29951
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. (Fundamental Communication Theories) , Abstract: Despite romantic attachments being a pervasive and a universally shared pursuit it is surprising that there remain many unanswered questions about love and romance in Africa. The situation is even more complex in South Africa given the history and legacy of apartheid which made societal division along racial lines a norm, limiting intimate relations between the racial groupings. When we study interracial communication from the vantage point of romantic relationships, a clearer understanding of the extent to which progress has been made in interpersonal communication in post-apartheid emerges. As opposed to investigating the attitudes of society in general, I thought it more fruitful to investigate the attitudes of the friends and family of interracial couples from the perspective of couples themselves. The dialectic frameworks of Impression Management and Communication Privacy Management offered nuanced lenses from which to investigate the surveillance dimension in interracial romantic relationships in post-apartheid South Africa. Through qualitative in depth interviews, I set out to investigate how and why interracial couples experience tensions between expressing intimacy in privacy and having to disclose their relationship to friends and family. Findings suggest that although couples often negotiated rules to regulate privacy about their relationship, these rules were enacted through various communicative regimes and strategies. Because disclosing to friends about the interracial romantic relationship was less complicated, the privacy and disclosure tension as well as impression management strategies that followed manifested itself more with family. Partners’ acute awareness of the attitudes that their friends and family hold toward those of a different race meant that disclosing the relationship to the family was often seen as the next step in taking the relationship further. Thus managing disclosure and concealment patterns about the romantic relationship was a way of living with the stigma of the forbidden. Managing disclosure and concealment of the status of interracial romantic relationships cannot simply be associated with just the desire to nurture a newly formed romantic relationship. Race consciousness is an inexorable part of the management regime of interracial romantic relationships...
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Off-campus accommodation at UJ : experiences of first-generation students from low-income families
- Authors: Ngwenya, Nkosini Lawrence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Low-income students - South Africa , People with social disabilities - Education (Higher) - South Africa , Addicts - Rehabilitation - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - Economic conditions , Universities and colleges - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/226876 , uj:22948
- Description: M.A. (Sociology) , Abstract: This study endeavours to understand how the reliance on off-campus student accommodation influences the experiences of first-generation low-income students as they adapt to university life at the Auckland Park Kingsway (APK) campus of the University of Johannesburg (UJ). There is little literature on off-campus accommodation, particularly in South Africa. On the other hand there is plenty of literature on first-generation students and students from low-income families, who in most cases are also first-generation students. However, what these studies have in common is that they draw on empirical work conducted in the global North and tend to exhibit a Eurocentric view. In addition, the voices of first-generation and/or low-income students is largely absent from the story telling. The experiences of these students are often related by experts, on their behalf. This dissertation addresses those shortcomings through the use of a narrative approach to data collection and analysis, which has afforded first-generation students from low-income families the platform to share their stories in the manner they would like them to be heard. The study also contributes an African account to the body of literature on off-campus accommodation. This qualitative study made use of in-depth face-to-face interviews with fourteen first-generation students from low-income families living in off-campus accommodation while studying at the Kingsway campus of the University of Johannesburg. Student narratives were also analysed thematically. The findings of this study indicate that first-generation low-income students lack preparation for university life, which affects their choices on student accommodation. Although off-campus accommodation presents students with financial and safety-related challenges, students prefer to stay off campus because of benefits such as freedom and independence. Experiences of off-campus accommodation, however, differ according to gender, as men and women identified different priorities and used different strategies to address their priorities. This study has therefore contributed to the body of literature on first-generation students and on student housing by presenting an in-depth account of the experiences of first-generation students from low-income families who are finding their way through the contemporary landscape of higher education in South Africa.
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- Authors: Ngwenya, Nkosini Lawrence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Low-income students - South Africa , People with social disabilities - Education (Higher) - South Africa , Addicts - Rehabilitation - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - Economic conditions , Universities and colleges - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/226876 , uj:22948
- Description: M.A. (Sociology) , Abstract: This study endeavours to understand how the reliance on off-campus student accommodation influences the experiences of first-generation low-income students as they adapt to university life at the Auckland Park Kingsway (APK) campus of the University of Johannesburg (UJ). There is little literature on off-campus accommodation, particularly in South Africa. On the other hand there is plenty of literature on first-generation students and students from low-income families, who in most cases are also first-generation students. However, what these studies have in common is that they draw on empirical work conducted in the global North and tend to exhibit a Eurocentric view. In addition, the voices of first-generation and/or low-income students is largely absent from the story telling. The experiences of these students are often related by experts, on their behalf. This dissertation addresses those shortcomings through the use of a narrative approach to data collection and analysis, which has afforded first-generation students from low-income families the platform to share their stories in the manner they would like them to be heard. The study also contributes an African account to the body of literature on off-campus accommodation. This qualitative study made use of in-depth face-to-face interviews with fourteen first-generation students from low-income families living in off-campus accommodation while studying at the Kingsway campus of the University of Johannesburg. Student narratives were also analysed thematically. The findings of this study indicate that first-generation low-income students lack preparation for university life, which affects their choices on student accommodation. Although off-campus accommodation presents students with financial and safety-related challenges, students prefer to stay off campus because of benefits such as freedom and independence. Experiences of off-campus accommodation, however, differ according to gender, as men and women identified different priorities and used different strategies to address their priorities. This study has therefore contributed to the body of literature on first-generation students and on student housing by presenting an in-depth account of the experiences of first-generation students from low-income families who are finding their way through the contemporary landscape of higher education in South Africa.
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The perceptions of second year social work students on University of Johannesburg’s academic support structures
- Authors: Nkala, Nolwazi Zinhle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: College dropouts - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - Services for - South Africa - Johannesburg , Student affairs services - South Africa - Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/294271 , uj:32013
- Description: M.A. (Social Work) , Abstract: Literature indicates that student-dropout is an international phenomenon and South Africa is not an exception, especially with its socio-historical reality of colonialism and apartheid. The country has a lot to learn from the global experience in terms of various interventions applied to mitigate the challenge of low throughput ratios in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The dropout rates are especially prevalent in the first year of undergraduate studies and are associated with students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who are largely black. This has an impact on their throughput, which invariably affects also the transformation agenda of racial representation at HEIs. There have been interventions at national level to assist academically struggling students navigate their transition into the demands of HEIs. The aim of the study was to investigate the perceptions of second-year social work students on the academic support structures available at the University of Johannesburg. The study focused on the Writing Centre as it was the most utilised academic service by academically struggling students. The Writing Centre is a wing of the Academic Development Centre (ADC) in the University of Johannesburg. The study adopted an exploratory qualitative design with some quasi-evaluative elements to investigate the perceptions of second-year Social Work students on the UJADC writing centre. The researcher used a narrative approach in conducting a focus group discussion. The study participants were drawn from the second-year Social Work theory class of 2017 at UJ. From this cohort the researcher only selected eight participants who had utilised some of the services offered by the UJADC Writing Centre. The researcher divided the eight participants into two groups and conducted two focus group discussions, to collect rich data on participants’ qualitative experiences. Data was analysed by employing the thematic data analysis technique which involves six steps of analysing. Findings indicate that the students value the Writing Centre as a useful academic service by improving their writing skills and assisting them in the transition from high school to university. The study also found out that there is some stigma attached to visiting the centre for help, as those seeking services are often viewed by their peers as academically weak students. Therefore, deliberate efforts to destigmatise seeking help from the centre and are essential and secondly, struggling students need to be tracked so that they can be given specific assistance they require.
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- Authors: Nkala, Nolwazi Zinhle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: College dropouts - South Africa - Johannesburg , College students - Services for - South Africa - Johannesburg , Student affairs services - South Africa - Johannesburg , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/294271 , uj:32013
- Description: M.A. (Social Work) , Abstract: Literature indicates that student-dropout is an international phenomenon and South Africa is not an exception, especially with its socio-historical reality of colonialism and apartheid. The country has a lot to learn from the global experience in terms of various interventions applied to mitigate the challenge of low throughput ratios in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The dropout rates are especially prevalent in the first year of undergraduate studies and are associated with students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who are largely black. This has an impact on their throughput, which invariably affects also the transformation agenda of racial representation at HEIs. There have been interventions at national level to assist academically struggling students navigate their transition into the demands of HEIs. The aim of the study was to investigate the perceptions of second-year social work students on the academic support structures available at the University of Johannesburg. The study focused on the Writing Centre as it was the most utilised academic service by academically struggling students. The Writing Centre is a wing of the Academic Development Centre (ADC) in the University of Johannesburg. The study adopted an exploratory qualitative design with some quasi-evaluative elements to investigate the perceptions of second-year Social Work students on the UJADC writing centre. The researcher used a narrative approach in conducting a focus group discussion. The study participants were drawn from the second-year Social Work theory class of 2017 at UJ. From this cohort the researcher only selected eight participants who had utilised some of the services offered by the UJADC Writing Centre. The researcher divided the eight participants into two groups and conducted two focus group discussions, to collect rich data on participants’ qualitative experiences. Data was analysed by employing the thematic data analysis technique which involves six steps of analysing. Findings indicate that the students value the Writing Centre as a useful academic service by improving their writing skills and assisting them in the transition from high school to university. The study also found out that there is some stigma attached to visiting the centre for help, as those seeking services are often viewed by their peers as academically weak students. Therefore, deliberate efforts to destigmatise seeking help from the centre and are essential and secondly, struggling students need to be tracked so that they can be given specific assistance they require.
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The entangled lives of UJ students and mosquitoes – an environmental anthropological perspective
- Authors: Noble, Whitney Theresa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mosquitoes as carriers of disease , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410982 , uj:34516
- Description: Abstract: Humans and animals have special relationships that have evolved over the years. Many have studied relationships between people and different animals, and the effects that these relationships have. As a result, many theories and approaches have been used as aid to study these relationships and help understand them; one such approach is the entanglement approach. Entanglement is understood as the intermingling and connectedness of species. It makes one aware of how interconnected the lives of living and non-living organisms are. This dissertation highlights the entangling relationships between humans and mosquitoes, whilst at the same time raising awareness around the lack of knowledge around mosquito-borne diseases. The study was conducted at the University of Johannesburg with first year Development Studies students on the Auckland Park campus. This study unfolded in two phases: the first was through means of an online survey. The students completed said survey during their tutorial. The next phase was through a series of focus group discussions to help illuminate the findings of the survey. Findings from the study indicate that students believe that infrastructure, or at least poor infrastructure, contributes to mosquito prevalence. And, secondly, students’ knowledge about mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases is rather limited, with knowledge of especially mosquito-borne diseases being influenced by the prevalence of such illnesses in the country of origin of the students. Finally, gender and culture were identified as an important bodily element that contributes to an overall understanding of the entanglements of humans and mosquitoes. , M.A. (Anthropology)
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- Authors: Noble, Whitney Theresa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mosquitoes as carriers of disease , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/410982 , uj:34516
- Description: Abstract: Humans and animals have special relationships that have evolved over the years. Many have studied relationships between people and different animals, and the effects that these relationships have. As a result, many theories and approaches have been used as aid to study these relationships and help understand them; one such approach is the entanglement approach. Entanglement is understood as the intermingling and connectedness of species. It makes one aware of how interconnected the lives of living and non-living organisms are. This dissertation highlights the entangling relationships between humans and mosquitoes, whilst at the same time raising awareness around the lack of knowledge around mosquito-borne diseases. The study was conducted at the University of Johannesburg with first year Development Studies students on the Auckland Park campus. This study unfolded in two phases: the first was through means of an online survey. The students completed said survey during their tutorial. The next phase was through a series of focus group discussions to help illuminate the findings of the survey. Findings from the study indicate that students believe that infrastructure, or at least poor infrastructure, contributes to mosquito prevalence. And, secondly, students’ knowledge about mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases is rather limited, with knowledge of especially mosquito-borne diseases being influenced by the prevalence of such illnesses in the country of origin of the students. Finally, gender and culture were identified as an important bodily element that contributes to an overall understanding of the entanglements of humans and mosquitoes. , M.A. (Anthropology)
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Soweto campus students’ attitudes towards non-nationals : a sociological study at the University of Johannesburg
- Authors: Patsika, Tinovimba Pamela
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Xenophobia - South Africa - Soweto , College students - Attitudes - Political aspects - South Africa - Soweto , University of Johannesburg , Immigrants - Violence against - South Africa - Soweto , Immigrants - South Africa - Soweto - Social conditions , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59572 , uj:16548
- Description: Abstract: Xenophobia is the hatred, fear or dislike that is expressed in attitudes and behaviours towards non-nationals and/or perceived outsiders, and that violates human rights by denying individuals the basic right to humane treatment, because of feelings or attitudes of superiority over others. This phenomenon has attracted significant public attention and raised the quest to understand and explain its causes. This study contributes to this understanding through focusing on a particular segment of society, university students. The presence of non-nationals (foreigners) in a country does not seem to affect the citizens of that country in similar ways. Xenophobic attacks in South Africa have shown the lack of integration and tolerance of difference that is exhibited by some of the country’s citizens. Literature on xenophobia has suggested that the phenomenon is caused by issues that include poverty and unemployment, impact of the apartheid past, gender and age effects, as well as scapegoating. This study was aimed at taking these explanations and ‘testing’ them on local university students at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus. The objective here was to ascertain students’ perceptions of and attitudes towards non-nationals and to reflect on how this microcosm differed from the larger national scenario. Data was collected quantitatively, through survey questionnaires, from a sample of 262 students at the Soweto Campus. The results of the study provide support for the argument that contextual particularities of the environment or society need to be strongly considered. It was concluded that, although some issues associated with xenophobia are realised amongst university students, students generally show that they are collaborating with, and receptive to the circumstances of non-nationals. It appears from the findings of this study that perceptions of non-nationals differ across genders, socio-economic backgrounds and levels of study. It is recommended that future studies combine quantitative and qualitative methods in conducting studies on xenophobia (and related issues). This would yield results that combine statistical descriptions and the personal thoughts and feelings of the respondents. The depth and reliability of studies of this nature would also be increased. It is further recommended that studies of this nature be done comparatively at all campuses of the university as well as at universities across South Africa. , M.A. (Sociology)
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- Authors: Patsika, Tinovimba Pamela
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Xenophobia - South Africa - Soweto , College students - Attitudes - Political aspects - South Africa - Soweto , University of Johannesburg , Immigrants - Violence against - South Africa - Soweto , Immigrants - South Africa - Soweto - Social conditions , University of Johannesburg - Students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59572 , uj:16548
- Description: Abstract: Xenophobia is the hatred, fear or dislike that is expressed in attitudes and behaviours towards non-nationals and/or perceived outsiders, and that violates human rights by denying individuals the basic right to humane treatment, because of feelings or attitudes of superiority over others. This phenomenon has attracted significant public attention and raised the quest to understand and explain its causes. This study contributes to this understanding through focusing on a particular segment of society, university students. The presence of non-nationals (foreigners) in a country does not seem to affect the citizens of that country in similar ways. Xenophobic attacks in South Africa have shown the lack of integration and tolerance of difference that is exhibited by some of the country’s citizens. Literature on xenophobia has suggested that the phenomenon is caused by issues that include poverty and unemployment, impact of the apartheid past, gender and age effects, as well as scapegoating. This study was aimed at taking these explanations and ‘testing’ them on local university students at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus. The objective here was to ascertain students’ perceptions of and attitudes towards non-nationals and to reflect on how this microcosm differed from the larger national scenario. Data was collected quantitatively, through survey questionnaires, from a sample of 262 students at the Soweto Campus. The results of the study provide support for the argument that contextual particularities of the environment or society need to be strongly considered. It was concluded that, although some issues associated with xenophobia are realised amongst university students, students generally show that they are collaborating with, and receptive to the circumstances of non-nationals. It appears from the findings of this study that perceptions of non-nationals differ across genders, socio-economic backgrounds and levels of study. It is recommended that future studies combine quantitative and qualitative methods in conducting studies on xenophobia (and related issues). This would yield results that combine statistical descriptions and the personal thoughts and feelings of the respondents. The depth and reliability of studies of this nature would also be increased. It is further recommended that studies of this nature be done comparatively at all campuses of the university as well as at universities across South Africa. , M.A. (Sociology)
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UJ Student regulations
- Authors: University of Johannesburg
- Date: 2015-07-08
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students
- Type: Other
- Identifier: uj:1672 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13911
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- Authors: University of Johannesburg
- Date: 2015-07-08
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students
- Type: Other
- Identifier: uj:1672 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13911
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"Do we stay or do we leave?” : the role of trust and engagement in students’ decision whether to remain in South Africa
- Authors: Uys, Tina , Senekal, Anton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Emigration and immigration - South Africa
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5601 , ISSN 09766634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14331
- Description: This paper focuses on University of Johannesburg (UJ) students' views on remaining in or leaving South Africa. These views are based on the degree of trust students perceive the government (broadly defined) to be worthy of, and the degree of engagement in the affairs of the country that students are prepared to expend in the context of perceived threats to South African citizens. A survey of 1214 undergraduate students on all four UJ campuses was conducted in 2011. Care was taken that the sample reflected the overall picture of the research population. The data is analysed in terms of a typology that considers the extent to which people either respond to real or perceived threats based on trust or distrust in the government's ability and willingness to protect their interests as citizens. On this basis, they could furthermore either engage the threatening reality or disengage from it altogether. The paper analyses the extent to which patterns can be identified among different groups of UJ undergraduate students with regard to the four possible responses that emerge from the developed typology: Trusting engagement, trusting disengagement, distrusting engagement and distrusting disengagement.
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- Authors: Uys, Tina , Senekal, Anton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Emigration and immigration - South Africa
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5601 , ISSN 09766634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/14331
- Description: This paper focuses on University of Johannesburg (UJ) students' views on remaining in or leaving South Africa. These views are based on the degree of trust students perceive the government (broadly defined) to be worthy of, and the degree of engagement in the affairs of the country that students are prepared to expend in the context of perceived threats to South African citizens. A survey of 1214 undergraduate students on all four UJ campuses was conducted in 2011. Care was taken that the sample reflected the overall picture of the research population. The data is analysed in terms of a typology that considers the extent to which people either respond to real or perceived threats based on trust or distrust in the government's ability and willingness to protect their interests as citizens. On this basis, they could furthermore either engage the threatening reality or disengage from it altogether. The paper analyses the extent to which patterns can be identified among different groups of UJ undergraduate students with regard to the four possible responses that emerge from the developed typology: Trusting engagement, trusting disengagement, distrusting engagement and distrusting disengagement.
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University of Johannesburg post-graduate students’ perceptions of safe sex practices and IOHA services
- Authors: Van der Grijp, Sam
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Safe sex in AIDS prevention , AIDS (Disease) - South Africa - Johannesburg - Prevention , HIV infections - Social aspects - South Africa - Johannesburg , Students - Diseases - South Africa - Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/411248 , uj:34551
- Description: Abstract: An individual’s perception of safe sex practices is influenced by the social sexual scripts that they develop through their interactions with their environment. This study conducted a qualitative enquiry of University of Johannesburg post-graduate students’ perceptions of (i) safe sex practices and (ii) services of the University’s Institutional Office for HIV and AIDS (IOHA). The investigation was conducted through the lens of social sexual script theory. Seven interviews were conducted with post-graduate students from UJ’s Kingsway Campus. The findings revealed how current social sexual scripts were influenced by cultural and religious norms, and how the interpersonal adaptation of scripts influenced the intrapsychic preferences of individuals. In particular, the findings revealed how current perceptions of safe sex practices were influenced by fear, trust, communication and the age or level of maturity of the individual. UJ IOHA services were viewed in both a positive and a negative light. To enhance these services, participant suggestions included extending IOHA’s reach through intensive marketing initiatives and improving HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns. This included biomedical prevention, greater accessibility to barrier methods, increasing women’s agency through greater promotion of female condoms, more open communication about sex and increasing HIV testing on campus. , M.A. (Social Work)
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- Authors: Van der Grijp, Sam
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg - Students , Safe sex in AIDS prevention , AIDS (Disease) - South Africa - Johannesburg - Prevention , HIV infections - Social aspects - South Africa - Johannesburg , Students - Diseases - South Africa - Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/411248 , uj:34551
- Description: Abstract: An individual’s perception of safe sex practices is influenced by the social sexual scripts that they develop through their interactions with their environment. This study conducted a qualitative enquiry of University of Johannesburg post-graduate students’ perceptions of (i) safe sex practices and (ii) services of the University’s Institutional Office for HIV and AIDS (IOHA). The investigation was conducted through the lens of social sexual script theory. Seven interviews were conducted with post-graduate students from UJ’s Kingsway Campus. The findings revealed how current social sexual scripts were influenced by cultural and religious norms, and how the interpersonal adaptation of scripts influenced the intrapsychic preferences of individuals. In particular, the findings revealed how current perceptions of safe sex practices were influenced by fear, trust, communication and the age or level of maturity of the individual. UJ IOHA services were viewed in both a positive and a negative light. To enhance these services, participant suggestions included extending IOHA’s reach through intensive marketing initiatives and improving HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns. This included biomedical prevention, greater accessibility to barrier methods, increasing women’s agency through greater promotion of female condoms, more open communication about sex and increasing HIV testing on campus. , M.A. (Social Work)
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