This study explored the impact of cultural attrition on youth behaviour: A case of ulwaluko and intonjane cultural practices in Mthatha and Mount Frere areas, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to respectively examine youth perceptions of ulwaluko and intonjane cultural practices and their impact towards their behaviour; (ii) to establish different stakeholders’ perceptions on the link between current youth behaviours and attrition of ulwaluko and intonjane cultural practices; (iii) to explore the extent to which cultural attrition has impacted upon the cultural goal posts of both ulwaluko and intonjane practices; and (iv) to establish the effectiveness of policy environment designed to uphold cultural preservation, integrity, growth and development. The study was premised on theoretical lenses of anomie theory, socio-cultural theory, cultural imperialism theory, and cultural feminism theory. Methodologically, the study used both qualitative and quantitative paradigm and was thus guided by mixed research design which was case study and mini survey. The data was collected through in-depth one-on-one interviews, focus group discussions and key informants i n t h e qualitative aspect of the study. In addition, the quantitative data was gathered through distribution of questionnaires. The study used both non-probability and probability methods sample selection, specifically purposive sampling (for qualitative data) and cluster random sampling (for quantitative) techniques were used. Using these techniques, forty-two (42) participants were selected for qualitative interviews, and comprised of eighteen (18) young men and women of both gender divides. Moreover, nine (9) key informants were included in the qualitative data collection. Therefore, the total number of both participants and respondents was 105. Data was analysed qualitatively through thematic analysis, while descriptive statistics was used to analyse quantitative data through the use of SPSS software versions 24. The study revealed the following: a state of cultural crossroad for both intonjane and ulwaluko rites; cultural attrition is indeed a reality; culture incapable of holding their goal posts; modern era a huge driver to cultural attrition; unfriendly policies on cultures a driver to cultural attrition; human rights’ wave and advocacy aiding cultural attrition; political infiltration of cultures; human rights’ wave and advocacy aiding cultural attrition; and community forums as avenues of disseminating the benefits of cultural practices. Based on the evidence gathered in this study, the following recommendations are made: purposive use of mass media to promote indigenous cultures; community awareness in promoting and maintaining cultures; formulating cultural policies that embed stakeholders’ self-determination, and youth ownership and participation in cultural preservation. The study concludes that cultural practices such as ulwaluko and intonjane play a pivotal role in shaping young people’s behaviours and moral conducts. However, modernity forces and various omissions by stakeholders of these cultural practices have contributed to their attrition.

MA (Psychology) / Department of Psychology

The study unpacked the meaning and the value of intonjane in traditional Xhosa communities. It also provides a critical analysis and interpretation of the intonjane custom and in particular its impact on the upbringing of a Xhosa traditional girl child. It investigates the value of this practice, especially in relation to where it is still being performed, even in our modern times. I researched closely into all aspects of how the girls were brought up, and with what social values. The data collection has been conducted through interviews with the Philakukuzenzela group when they were in Grahamstown Art Festival in July 2011 who come from a place called Centuli, and other people (abaThembu) who practice and have knowledge of the different aspects of the intonjane process and observation during the actual ceremonies in O. R. Thambo district, and in Gemvale near Port St Johns in the Province of the Eastern Cape. Interviews were conducted in Xhosa and translated into English. This Visual Narrative investigates and contributes to the debate regarding the value of traditional African thought and how it can enrich our contemporary belief system. The objective was to investigate the essence and merit of the knowledge imparted by elderly women to young girls during the initiation period of intonjane within Xhosa traditional communities. This study provides a foundation and springboard for my practical artworks which utilized symbols and metaphors to express my understanding of the important events and stages associated with this traditional ceremony. Clay medium was used as the medium of expression, applying different techniques such as throwing, press mold, slab building, coiling, engraving, sewing and inlaying, with press mold being the main technique utilized. My artworks are of three different types, which are symbolic of the three aspects or stages, of liminality, namely: pre-liminal, liminal and post-liminal. / Art history, Visual arts and Musicology / M.A. (Visual Arts)