Chemical substance abuse and dependence constitute an increasing international and national phenomenon. Individuals, groups and communities are at risk of the mental, biological, legal and environmental implications associated with substance dependence. Human sexual behaviour is no new phenomenon to be studied. Human beings experience sexual behaviour and gratification as important. Sexual behaviour is not vital for the survival of the individual but vital for survival of the species. Sexual behaviour in combination with chemical substance abuse might pose further dangers to a person or group. Sexual behaviour where persons engage in sexual actions when using or abusing chemical substances could construct certain positive functions for persons. Qualitative researchers are interested in discovering the meaning persons attach to experiences. In understanding the dynamics of the phenomenon, possible contributions to the human sciences could be made. Chemical substance abuse and dependency affect the individual, his/her family systems and the community. Depressants and stimulants change the chemical functioning of the human brain and the mental health of the user. Despite the harm caused to the dependent person, abuse of the chemical substance is continued. The substance has various functions that the biological and psychological person becomes dependent on. Sexual behaviour is inherent in human nature, but not chemical substance abuse. It is expected by the researcher that there might be certain function(s) served by chemical substances in the sexual behaviour of persons. A literature study on the topic on the function of chemical substances in the sexual behaviour of persons yielded unsatisfactory results. Little research was found with regard to the function of chemical substances in relation to people’s sexual behaviour. In response to this need the researcher embarked on a qualitative research journey to explore the function of the chemical substances within the context of an individual’s sexual behaviour and practices. Chemical substances have different functions and affect the sexual behaviour, functioning and experiences of the users of such substances. Six objectives were set with the aim of developing an in-depth understanding of the function of chemical substances in sexual behaviour. The research question of this investigation leads to a clear inquiry into the phenomenon that was examined and analysed and yielded useful new information. This qualitative research project is characterised by its inductive features, openness to change and interest in human behaviour. The study is characterised by an interpretive nature as an interpretative investigation. An effort was made towards understanding the phenomenon through observation and exploration. Persons were invited to participate in the research and reported themselves to the researcher, the process of self-selection sampling was utilised. In drawing a sample from the population of patients at a treatment centre an interactive approach to the process was followed by conducting semi-structured and in-depth interviews as a method of data collection. Data analysis and processing was executed according to the eight steps for qualitative data analysis as proposed by Tesch (in Creswell, 2009). Data verification for the assessment of the trustworthiness of the research findings was achieved by utilizing Guba’s model as espoused in Krefting (1991). Informed consent, confidentiality and management of information were some of the ethical considerations adhered to in the planning and execution of this research project. The nature of this study is marked by the person-centred approach in combination with the qualitative methodology and philosophy. The researcher found the two to be appropriate when a sensitive and private topic was to be explored. Participants were able to evaluate the meanings that were attached to their experiences within a psychologically sound environment. Themes became evident through the data analysis process. These themes were contrasted against a body of existing theory. The wholeness of human beings came to the fore and literature from a bio-neurological and humanistic perspective was found to be applicable. The social sciences and, in particular, social workers are concerned with the wellbeing of persons, their relevant systems and context. These dimensions of human beings were addressed by this study and aimed to contribute to further development in the science of psychotherapy and the understanding of the person within the phenomenon being studied. Therapists should be willing and demonstrate a sensitive ability to understand the client’s experiences from the person’s own point of view (Rogers, 1950: 444). In a relationship that is constructed for the purpose the aim should be mainly to understand the whole person (Rogers, 1952: 343). Therapists should develop an ability to see completely through the client’s eyes and adopt the person’s frame of reference. This is the basis for implementing “client-centred” therapy (Rogers 1950: 444). A key role of social work practice is facilitating the empowerment of persons, and their personal and interpersonal strengths according to their own self-determination (Zastrow, 2012:39); the researcher recommends a holistic full understanding of the person in his/her wholeness (Rogers, 1987: 486). / Exploring the functions of chemical substances in individuals' sexual behavior / Interviews in English and Afrikaans / Department of Social Work / M.A. (Social Work)

The study aimed at investigating the factors that affect the efficient management of wastes produced by food outlets in Pretoria, South Africa. This was with a view of providing empirical data and information with respect to the causative factors responsible for the visible environmental pollution by wastes and materials from food outlets. Data was gathered from a representative sample of 332 food outlets on socio-economic, demographic, environmental, sanitary and health related variables that are related to waste management and efficiency in the disposal of solid and liquid wastes. Data entry and analysis was performed using statistical procedures such as frequency tables, Pearson’s chi-square tests of association and binary logistic regression analysis in the statistical package STATA version 10. Odds ratios estimated from logistic regression analysis were used for identifying key factors that affect efficiency in the proper disposal of waste. Results obtained showed that 18 % of the 332 food outlets in the study were generally inefficient in waste disposal. Based on odds ratios estimated from binary logistic regression analysis, wrong perception (a factor of 10.88), failure to provide trash cans to customers (a factor of 3.15), the operation of food outlets by non-owners or managers (a factor of 2.33), and failure to practice source reduction of waste (a factor of 2.25) are the top 4 influential factors that affect the proper management of waste at the 332 food outlets in the study. / Environmental Sciences / M. Sc. (Environmental Management)

The study aimed at investigating the factors that affect the efficient management of wastes produced by food outlets in Pretoria, South Africa. This was with a view of providing empirical data and information with respect to the causative factors responsible for the visible environmental pollution by wastes and materials from food outlets. Data was gathered from a representative sample of 332 food outlets on socio-economic, demographic, environmental, sanitary and health related variables that are related to waste management and efficiency in the disposal of solid and liquid wastes. Data entry and analysis was performed using statistical procedures such as frequency tables, Pearson’s chi-square tests of association and binary logistic regression analysis in the statistical package STATA version 10. Odds ratios estimated from logistic regression analysis were used for identifying key factors that affect efficiency in the proper disposal of waste. Results obtained showed that 18 % of the 332 food outlets in the study were generally inefficient in waste disposal. Based on odds ratios estimated from binary logistic regression analysis, wrong perception (a factor of 10.88), failure to provide trash cans to customers (a factor of 3.15), the operation of food outlets by non-owners or managers (a factor of 2.33), and failure to practice source reduction of waste (a factor of 2.25) are the top 4 influential factors that affect the proper management of waste at the 332 food outlets in the study. / Environmental Sciences / M. Sc. (Environmental Management)

Text in Afrikaans / Approximately 50 percent of all marriages end up in divorce according to estimates. Thirty percent of divorcees enter into wedlock again within one year from being divorced, thereby creating a reconstructed family. The child in the late middle childhood years experiences some unique challenges during the reconstruction of the family due to influences such as the parent-child relationship, parenting styles and the start of puberty. The purpose of this qualitative study is to determine the child's psychological experience within the reconstructed family and to provide guidelines to parents (and co-therapists) on how to deal with children during the reconstruction process. The qualitative method of research was applied as it is a more informal research procedure and the boundaries of the study subject are reasonably wide and undefined. The method provides an adaptable strategy regarding problem formulation and data collection, which allow semi-structured interviews, observations and field notes, and enable the researcher to obtain first hand knowledge and understanding of the problem. / Social Work / M. Diac.(Play Therapy)

This study investigated the exposure of employees in the South African Police Service (SAPS) to the HIV/AIDS workplace programme, levels of knowledge of HIV/AIDS, perceptions of stigma and discrimination and of participation by stakeholders in programme implementation. The researcher subscribes to the view that stigma and discrimination are major obstacles to the successful implementation of the HIV/AIDS workplace programme as this notion has been substantiated by numerous studies. Self-administered questionnaire was used as means of data collection. Findings suggest that the employees of SAPS based at the National Head Office have high levels of knowledge on HIV/AIDS. However, the majority of the respondents indicated that they would not feel comfortable to disclose their HIV positive status, fearing the consequences thereof. / Sociology / M.A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)

M. Tech. Tourism and Hospitality Management / This study was aimed at analysing the perceptions of visitors to Groenkloof Nature Reserve (GNR) with regard to sustainable business practices at the reserve. The study basically utilized three major methods of data gathering (viz. behavioural observation, interviews and questionnaires) to obtain all information required for such analysis.

This study investigated the exposure of employees in the South African Police Service (SAPS) to the HIV/AIDS workplace programme, levels of knowledge of HIV/AIDS, perceptions of stigma and discrimination and of participation by stakeholders in programme implementation. The researcher subscribes to the view that stigma and discrimination are major obstacles to the successful implementation of the HIV/AIDS workplace programme as this notion has been substantiated by numerous studies. Self-administered questionnaire was used as means of data collection. Findings suggest that the employees of SAPS based at the National Head Office have high levels of knowledge on HIV/AIDS. However, the majority of the respondents indicated that they would not feel comfortable to disclose their HIV positive status, fearing the consequences thereof. / Sociology / M.A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)

M. Tech. Architecture (Applied) / The aim of the thesis is to design a public swimming pool that re-connects street and river within a particular urban condition. The ground plane of the selected site is manipulated to facilitate a physical and visual connection with the river. Wetlands form part of the landscape surrounding the facility and on urban scale to assist in the cleaning and re-use of water from the canal. The proposal includes two pools accommodating different human interactions with water. The buildings are designed as a transitional space between inside and outside. The site was carefully selected based on the mix of current educational facilities, offices and residential accommodation. The site was developed using various layers namely: Private swimming, public swimming, spill out spaces, as well as spectator and passer-by contact. It is envisioned that the proposal will form part of the larger Tshwane 2055 framework aiming to revitalize the Pretoria CBD, although canalized, the Aapies River forms an important life giving artery adjacent to the Nelson Mandela Corridor. As part of the design proposal, it is envisioned that the canal be used as a floating walkway in future with follies linking specific sites and the river at strategic points. The proposed lap pool adheres to international standards. Both the pools step towards the canal, providing a different spatial and sensory experience. The design may serve as a guideline for future proposals along the canal. URBAN SWIMMING must inspire social growth and promote swimming as both a sport and a recreational activity.

M. Tech. Architecture (Professional) / Herbalism has been practised by various cultures in various countries around the world, including China, India and Africa for thousands of years. South Africa is home to a rich variety of medicinal plant species. Our natural resources and existing knowledge of traditional medicines and treatments form part of our heritage and should be protected, studied, documented and further researched to ensure the safe and effective use of herbal remedies for the public and future generations. Current issues that we are facing in South Africa are the informality of traditional medicines and the concern that the industry is unregulated, misunderstood by many and that the survival of our natural plant resources is under threat as a result of overexploitation. In response, this dissertation addresses these issues through the design of a consulting healthcare and research facility for natural medicine within Hatfield, Pretoria. The facility is intended to reach and educate the urban community in an attempt to bridge the gap between formal and informal medical fields. Urban agriculture will aim to form the foundation of the learning experience by promoting public awareness for natural medicine and the conservation of our natural resources regarding medicinal plants in a practical, experimental and experiential way. The proposed facility sets out to formalise indigenous traditional medicine in order to arrive at a sustainable commodity within the African urban environment. A further aim is to draw together various natural healing practices and processes experienced in the modern world, such as herbalism, homeopathy, osteopathy, naturopathy and chiropractic. This shared facility should create a symbiotic environment where these natural medicine modalities can operate within a controlled and regulated environment. In so doing, traditional practices may safely be commercialised as a proven alternative to allopathic medicine. The target user for this project will be the middle to high income urban groups that rely primarily on formal medical practices. Evidence based design principles informed the programme of the building relating to the creation of healing environments within healthcare centres.

M. Tech. Architecture Professional / This thesis presents the argument that the concept of urban farming can help resolve the problem of the displacement of agriculture in distant locations from consumers, which either results in the escalation of food costs or the loss of the farmer's profit, which inevitably results in less food producers. The market place addresses the lack of formalised trading space, providing job opportunities for an increasing urban population, along a busy pedestrian route. The thesis concludes through the illustration of a design project from the resulting research, on a triangular city block on the periphery of Central Pretoria.