This dissertation is an examination of salient factors that influence the health seeking behaviour of mothers/caregivers of pre-school children in Kwangwanase, KwaZuluNatal province, South Africa. Health seeking behaviour for pre-school children is poorly understood, and is influenced by an array of complex factors that inhibit full utilisation of available health services. Amongst other things, health-seeking behaviour is influenced by cultural beliefs about children's illnesses as well as the local availability of treatment options, and the perceived quality of care provided. This dissertation represents the findings of a combined qualitative and quantitative research approach using free listing, pile sorts, interview schedules, logbooks and observation to explore health-seeking behaviour. Research focussed on the local knowledge held in relation to childhood illnesses that affect children under age six, along with the explanatory models used to discern causation and shape decisions regarding treatment and care. Mothers and caregivers of Kwangwanase draw upon their existing knowledge of children's illnesses, including notions of disease causation, when making diagnoses and deciding between home treatments and professional consultation. Mothers and caregivers pay close attention to the well being of small children. They are constantly involved in the routine management of health and illness. Various treatment options are utilised in a pragmatic way, as mothers and caregivers pick and choose from all available health resources as and when they see fit. Cultural beliefs, accessibility, religious views and other factors influence their choice of health service. Depending on the quality of the care provided and the outcome of the therapeutic intervention, mothers and caregivers are likely to consult several different health care providers in a sequential manner. / Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2002.

This study takes the concept of ubuntu, which means humanness and applies it to healthcare issues in general, and women's health, in particular. Ubuntu is based on the reality of interdependence and relatedness. It is a philosophy or way of life that finds its roots and meaning in humanity. The values espoused in ubuntu emphasize caring, sharing, reciprocity, co-operation, compassion and empathy in recognition that for human beings to develop, flourish and reach their full potential, they need to conduct their relationships in a manner that promotes the well-being of others. The values championed in ubuntu are what inform and shape African cultural, social, political and ethical thought and action. / Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.

The study explored the body image of Professional Black South African women, cultural expectations, and their experiences in Westernised working milieus, utilising a phenomenological approach and qualitative exploratory design, located within Constructionism. Data were collected through purposive sampling (and snowballing) through individual face-to-face voice-recorded semi-structured interviews with 11 participants in/around Gauteng. Analysis was done through content analysis utilising thematic networks (Attride-Stirling). Major findings: Western values have influenced participants; Lower weight and thinness do not automatically correspond with assumptions about HIV/AIDS, instead correspond with healthier lifestyle choices; Body shape not weight or size was the prominent area of focus for most participants; Clothes size determines perception of overweight; Overweight has consequences. Forty-five per cent of participants were content with their bodies, 18% dissatisfied/unhappy, 18% satisfied, one happy, one apathetic. Tswanas were generally smaller-figured; Zulus, Northern Sotho/Pedi, Xhosa in general traditionally expected full-bodied women. Overt expectations in the workplace were not found. / Psychology / Master of Arts (Psychology)

The study explored the body image of Professional Black South African women, cultural expectations, and their experiences in Westernised working milieus, utilising a phenomenological approach and qualitative exploratory design, located within Constructionism. Data were collected through purposive sampling (and snowballing) through individual face-to-face voice-recorded semi-structured interviews with 11 participants in/around Gauteng. Analysis was done through content analysis utilising thematic networks (Attride-Stirling). Major findings: Western values have influenced participants; Lower weight and thinness do not automatically correspond with assumptions about HIV/AIDS, instead correspond with healthier lifestyle choices; Body shape not weight or size was the prominent area of focus for most participants; Clothes size determines perception of overweight; Overweight has consequences. Forty-five per cent of participants were content with their bodies, 18% dissatisfied/unhappy, 18% satisfied, one happy, one apathetic. Tswanas were generally smaller-figured; Zulus, Northern Sotho/Pedi, Xhosa in general traditionally expected full-bodied women. Overt expectations in the workplace were not found. / Psychology / M.A. (Psychology)