Exploring the psychosocial support interventions for orphans and vulnerable children by social workers in the Vhembe district of South Africa
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction It is a global issue to meet the needs of the most vulnerable children, especially in developing nations that lack the training, infrastructure, and educational programs necessary for social welfare services. Objectives This article explored the psychosocial support interventions for orphans and vulnerable children in the Vhembe district of South Africa. Methods A qualitative method using an explorative descriptive design was employed. Purposive sampling was used to select participants within four municipalities in the Vhembe district. Data was collected using in-depth one on one interview with social workers. Data was analysed following Tesch’s eight steps of coding data analysis. Results The study found that orphans and vulnerable children are receiving psychosocial support from social workers. Many orphans and vulnerable children are experiencing abuse from their families, which leads many of them to substance abuse and alcohol. There are many obstacles in providing psychosocial support towards OVC, and the study suggested ways to improve the psychosocial support of orphans and vulnerable children. Conclusion These findings provide an insight into the types of psychosocial support interventions provided by social workers to orphans and vulnerable children. Clinical trial registration The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Human and Clinical Trial Research Ethics Committee) of the University of Venda (project no. FHS/23/PH/05/0706 approved on the 13th of June 2023.
Institution: University of Venda
Language: English
Subfield: Safety Research
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,490
OpenAlex ID: W4414511796