Browsing by Author "Baloyi, Dzunisani Eugenia"

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    Social workers' perspectives on barriers to substance abuse treatment for women in Limpopo province
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2021-12) Baloyi, Dzunisani Eugenia; Khosa, Priscalia; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The prevalence rate of substance abuse is escalating in women and little is known about their access to the available treatment services. Previous studies on barriers faced by women in accessing substance abuse treatment did not explore the perspectives of social workers, who are experts in helping women with substance abuse problems, but rather focused on service users. Therefore, the goal of this study was to explore the perspectives of social workers coordinating substance abuse programmes regarding the barriers women face in accessing treatment for substance abuse. The nature of the study is qualitative. An exploratory and descriptive research designs were adopted in the study. The findings of the study were derived from an empirical investigation conducted with 20 social workers employed by the Department of Social Development in Limpopo province. Data were collected from the participants through telephonic interviews using a semi-structured interview guide, and thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings of the study show that social workers observe a lot of women in local communities who are abusing substances, but they are not seeking help. The findings also reveal that women encounter different types of barriers when seeking treatment services for substance abuse. Internal barriers, such as a lack of motivation to change their behaviour and denial were identified, while external barriers such as a shortage of treatment facilities were also found. It was also found that the available treatment facilities and outpatient treatment services are not accessible to people, who live far from the centralised treatment facilities. These barriers contribute to women not receiving treatment and not seeking help. In order to eliminate these barriers, there is a serious need for additional treatment, whether these be inpatient or outpatient treatment services, to cater for the needs of women, including childcare. Furthermore, the study recommends that government must relook at legislation and policies on substance abuse services in order to address substance abuse problems for women, instead of the current primary focus on men. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will contribute to an understanding of barriers that women are facing in accessing substance abuse treatment. The study will also help in developing strategies to address factors to consider when admitting women to a treatment facility, such as their fear of leaving their children and family behind, which could hinder their decision to initiate treatment. Thus, the study advocates for the establishment of treatment centres for women and the development of treatment services that will minimise the barriers that women face in accessing substance abuse treatment centres. Lastly, the study will assist those in social work practice and other professionals in the field of substance abuse to enhance service delivery to women.