Thesis (MTh (Practical Theology and Missiology))--University of Stellenbosch, 2006. / The traditional parenting practices of the Shona people in Buhera District were premised upon the extended family system. Children grew up among relatives who, together with own parents would direct the child along the parts the child should go. Grand parents, uncles and aunts, elder brothers, sisters, cousins and nephews would all make an input in the upbringing of the child. This was such a strong support base that even when parents would go on extended visits, or go to work in the gold mines of South Africa for years, or in the event of the death of one or both parents, the child will still have parents to support and direct its parts in the family network.