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Item Experiences and coping strategies of clinical psychologists and intern clinical psychologists working with victims of trauma in the Khomas region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2023) Luaanda, AlbertinaThe occurrence of traumatic incidences is common in Namibia. Clinical and intern clinical psychologists at times work with clients who have experienced these traumatic events during therapy. This puts them at risk of being affected by the accounts of their clients’ experiences. There is limited research that has been conducted on the impact of working with victims of trauma in Namibia. This research, therefore, examined the experiences of working with victims of trauma from the perspectives of clinical and intern clinical psychologists. The impact of trauma work and the coping mechanisms utilised by clinical and intern clinical psychologists who work with victims of trauma were determined. The study applied a qualitative approach together with a case study design. Eleven participants, of which 90% were female, took part in the research and were all based in the Khomas region of Namibia. Data were collected by interviewing the participants using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis was applied for data analysis. The themes from the analysis were: the helper’s perspectives on trauma work, responses to trauma work, risk factors, the role of empathy in trauma work, discomfort with the limitations of the role, work and professional issues, coping with trauma work, social support and self-care. Clinical and intern clinical psychologists are impacted in both negative and positive ways through their work with victims of trauma. These experiences were vicarious traumatisation, secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, compassion satisfaction, vicarious resilience and post-traumatic growth. Institutions of higher learning should equip students with coping mechanisms for working with victims of trauma and with therapy work in general. The research findings will be shared and made available to the Psychological Association of Namibia and the Ministry of Health and Social ServicesItem An exploratory study of perceived barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence amongst adolescents in Omuthiya district, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Nefungo, EsterOne of the most counterproductive behaviour in disease control both in clinical trials and clinical practice is non-adherence to medication especially among patients with chronic illnesses. This study sought to explore the perceived barriers to Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) adherence amongst adolescents in Omuthiya District, Namibia. Omuthiya was selected because it was where the researcher resides so they identified the problem among the Omuthiya vicinity and therefore this study is a way to solve challenges faced by Omuthiya district inhabitants. To help research this study, the researcher used a qualitative and exploratory implementation design conducted within the theoretical perspective of ecological system. Participants were Ten (10) Adolescents Living with Human Immuno-Deficient Virus (ALHIV) aged 15-19 as well as Six (6) Health Care Workers as key informants. Both were purposively sampled. Data for the study were gathered through in-depth interviews using interview guides as research instrument. The study employed the thematic data analysis method. The study found that perceived barriers to non-adherence were mostly family related with the main reason being poor parental care at home. Other factors also contribute which include side effects, stigma associated with having Human Immuno-Deficient Virus (HIV) drugs and socio-economic challenges such as dietary restrictions. It was further found that health care facilities provide adequate support to all patients including ALHIV in addressing barriers to treatment adherence, however some ALHIV had a negative attitude towards ART adherence. It was also found that Health Care Workers perceive that the barriers to ART adherence amongst ALHIV are due to lack of knowledge and poor parental care at home. It is therefore recommended that the treatment regimen be thoroughly explained to ALHIV upon full disclosure and at every resupply visit to ensure they understand the importance of not defaulting. Multi sectored interventions’ including parental involvement in the adherence promotion initiatives is recommended. It is further recommended that the ALHIV receive support through adherence advocacy programs at local, district and national levelItem Lived experiences and coping strategies of domestic violence survivors in Outapi, Omusati region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Hailonga, MariaThe purpose of the study was to ‘’Explore the lived experiences and coping strategies of domestic violence from the perspective of female survivors in Outapi, Omusati Region, Namibia.’’ The study sought answers to the following research questions (1) What are the factors that contribute to domestic violence in Outapi, Omusati in Namibia? (2) What are the impacts of domestic violence on the victims? (3) What coping strategies can be used to address the impacts of domestic violence in Outapi, Omusati Region in Namibia? The study adopted a qualitative research design. A sample of 15 women participants who are domestic violence survivors were purposefully selected. Data was collected telephonically after working hours because some participants were busy at work and it was during the time of Covid-19 when social distance procedures were still in place. The study revealed that there are numerous factors that contribute to domestic violence in relationships. The key factors that were identified during the study were the issue of alcoholism and drug abuse, unemployment and poverty, gender inequality, childhood exposure to domestic violence, global recession and migration. Other sexual abuses when seeking for services and employment were exposed during the study. The study also found that domestic violence has serious effects on the health of the victim which range from mild to severe. Victims sustain physical injuries, suffer psychological problems, women fail to reach their potential due to fear of their abusers. Organisations fail to fully achieve their goals due to absenteeism from employees as they solve their problems at home. Coping strategies were also brought to the surface during the study. These included medical care, psychological support, daily exercises, planning for the safety of the survivors and their children, denial and avoidanceItem An exploration of the challenges faced by hospital based social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Omusati region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Shatiwa, Scholastika NelagoThe purpose of this study was to explore the operational challenges that hospital based social workers faced throughout the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research also focused on the effects of the COVID-19 on hospital based social workers, and the coping strategies hospital based social workers employed to reduce the severity of the challenges brought about by the same pandemic. The research utilized an exploratory qualitative design. In-depth interviews were performed with ten (10) individuals who were intentionally selected, and their comments were recorded, transcribed, examined, and reviewed. Participants were hospital-based social workers recruited via non-random, deliberate sampling procedures. Through thematic analysis using open coding, themes and subthemes were developed, and these were examined in detail with supporting literature. The findings of the study were safety concerns and risks, professional dilemmas, decreased capacity to engage in self-care and increased adoption of unhealthy habits, loss of interaction between social workers, and emotional discomfort. The impacts of the pandemic extended as far as having hospital-based social workers (SW) participate in distant operations with diminished engagement; happiness was affected; there was the loss of jobs, early retirement for some, and stress, among other things. To try to reduce the detrimental consequences of the pandemic, several coping strategies were put in place, such as the WFH policy, decontamination of offices, national lockdowns, natural cures, and the provision of tele-behavioral therapy to clients. Building on existing pandemic preparation frameworks, these findings might enable future studies to create both individual and systemic solutions. It will also assist Ministry of Health and Social Services to request training institutions of higher learning to actively enroll men in the social work course. Furthermore it will help in fast-track access to technology for the Omusati Region staff, which consists of hospitals, health centers, and clinics, and to provide devices (e.g. smart phones, laptops) to the focal emergency staff. Clients can become more comfortable with technology-enabled care, such as using existing training curricula, by receiving training on how to use Zoom, Teams, and other platforms of communicationsItem The relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health of employed and unemployed young adults in Windhoek, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Louw, MonyaUnderstanding and nurturing emotional intelligence is vital for maintaining good mental health. By recognizing and managing our emotions effectively, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and foster healthier relationships both with ourselves and others. The present research explores the relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health of employed and unemployed adults in Windhoek, Namibia. The study was guided by a quantitative, exploratory cross-sectional research design. Convenience sampling and simple random sampling methods were used to select the participants of the study correspondingly. A total sample of 400 adults participated, aged between 20 and 35, of which 199 were officially unemployed and 201 were officially employed. The Emotional Maturity Scale (EMS) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used to collect data regarding emotional intelligence and mental health respectively. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was also conducted to determine if there was any significant relationship between emotional intelligence, mental health, gender, age, marital status, and employment status. A significant relationship was found between emotional intelligence and depression, as well as emotional intelligence and stress. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between emotional intelligence and employment status. Overall, the employed participants experienced a higher prevalence of moderate emotional intelligence (96.5%) and 3.5% experienced high emotional intelligence. Moreover, 7.5% of unemployed participants experienced low emotional intelligence and 86.5% of unemployed participants experienced moderate emotional intelligence. No significant association was found between emotional intelligence, gender, and age. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between depression and employment status. The prevalence of mental health problems was higher amongst the unemployed participants with 25.5% severe depression, 44% severe anxiety, and 20% severe stress, as compared to employed participants with 17.5% severe depression, 42% severe anxiety, and 17% severe stress. The study recommends the implementation of platforms where issues of emotional intelligence and mental health can be discussed, and emotional intelligence skills and healthy coping strategies can be introduced, which could promote a more prosperous and thriving NamibiaItem Social support, resilience, and mental health of students in a university in Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Mpofu, MoreblessingsAim: Mental health challenges have become a major concern for university students. University life can cause stress for some students, which, if left untreated, can lead to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and sleep disorders. The current study aimed to describe the levels of social support, resilience, and mental health of undergraduate students at UNAM’s main campus, as well as to describe the relationships between these variables. Methods: This descriptive correlational study used a quantitative approach. The research instruments included a socio-demographic questionnaire, the MSPSS-12 (to measure social support), the CD-RISC-10 (to measure resilience), and the GHQ-12 (to measure mental health). A convenience sample (n=146) of full-time undergraduates was used. The study received ethical clearance from the Decentralised Ethics Committee (CDC) by the University of Namibia’s Research Ethics Policy and Guidelines. The SPSS version 29 was used for the analysis of the data. Specifically, descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlations were employed. Results: This study had more (n=105; 72%) female participants than male participants with the youngest being 18 years old and the oldest 55 years old. This study’s findings revealed that social support and resilience were positively related (r = 0.619; p = <0.0001). Social support negatively affected mental health (r=-0.672 p=<.001). This study found that a larger number of female participants experienced anxiety and depression than male participants. Resilience negatively affected mental health (r=-0.653 p=<.001). If individuals are not resilient, they become vulnerable to mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. However, ii when individuals have adequate social support, they tend to be resilient to stressful situations and consequently experience good mental health. Conclusion: Appropriate interventions may be put in place for mental health, to raise awareness of the importance of good mental health and resilience to maintain overall well being. This study recommends interventions that may identify, prevent, and treat mental health illnesses should be easily accessed on campus and these may include meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness techniques. The university should consider psycho-education on mental health as a module compulsory for all first-year students as this will equip them with crucial information on stress, resilience, and ways to cope when they face challenges. The findings of this study could be used as a point of reference to inform higher learning institutions’ policymakers, service providers, and stakeholders involved in the implementation of mental health awareness, interventions, and prevention services in higher learning institutions.Item An investigation on the role of secondary school teachers’ psychological capital and perceived supervisor support on job stress, in Windhoek, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Basiamang, OgoneSecondary School teacher in Namibia have a substantial influence on the progression of both the social and economic aspects of the community. However, in fulfilling this responsibility, teachers in Namibia are confronted with numerous issues that contribute to job stress. In order to identify possible measures to mitigate this issue, the study’s purpose was to investigate the role of secondary school teacher’s psychological capital and perceived supervisor support on job stress, in Windhoek, Namibia. The study implemented the convenience sampling technique with a participant pool of 263 teachers. Furthermore, the investigation utilised a quantitative approach through the implementation of questionnaires. This included the use of the Work Stress Questionnaire to measure job stress, the Compound Psychological Capital Scale to assess psychological capital and the supervisor relations subscale derived from the Antecedents Scale, to measure perceived supervisor support. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS Version 29, wherein measures of internal reliability, Pearson correlation and regression analysis were determined. The study uncovered an insignificant correlation between psychological capital and job stress (r= -.07, p>.05) This reveals that psychological capital is not associated with the changes in the level of job stress. However, subsets of psychological capital, such as hope (r=-.15, p<.05), and resilience were found to have a negative significant correlation (r= -.15, p<.05); thus indicating that an increase in psychological capital is associated with a decrease in job stress. Moreover, self-efficacy was observed to have a negative significant relationship with the subsets of job stress, specifically influence at work (r= -.20, p<.05) and individual demands and commitment (r=-.15, p<.05), therefore, indicating that an increase in self-efficacy was associated with the decrease in job stress dimensions influence at work and individual demands and ii commitment. The study also revealed that the most effective regression model for intervention development is one that encompasses the subsets of psychological capital and perceived supervisor support. Hence, the study provided recommendations that foster psychological capital and perceived supervisor support at individual level, organisational and regional level. It is further recommended that further investigations should be carried out to obtain a comprehensive understanding of other factors that could influence work-related stress, such as coping mechanisms and leadership stylesItem An analysis on the effects of leadership styles and emotional intelligence, on work engagement and job satisfaction at a selected parastatal in Windhoek, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Tibinyane, Charmaine V.The current work environment is highly complex, multi-dimensional, and ever-changing and thus increasing the call for research on the current leadership style and emotional intelligence in organisations. Leadership style and emotional intelligence are known to be key determinants of work engagement and job satisfaction. The studies sought to explore to collect the variance of leadership style and emotional intelligence on work engagement and job satisfaction among NamPower employees. A quantitative study was conducted to accomplish the objectives of the study. Convenience sampling was used to obtain data. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and gathered data via online questionnaires. The data was analysed using Process Macro and SPSS version 27. There was a total of 135 NamPower employees who responded and gave their feedback for this study. The findings revealed that for the linear relations between leadership style and emotional intelligence. The results revealed that there was a statistically significant relationship between leadership style and emotional intelligence (r=430**; p=<.001). On the other hand, leadership style and job satisfaction (r=-.148; p=.086) had no significant. Leadership style and work engagement (r=-.142; p=.101). Emotional intelligence had a negative and statistically significant relationship to job satisfaction (r= -.242**; p=.005). Emotional intelligence had a low to moderate relationship to work engagement (r=.415**; p=<.001) and lastly Work engagement was negatively related to job satisfaction (r= -.477**; p=<.001)Item Exploring work-family conflict and family-work conflict amongst working parents of children with down syndrome in the Khomas region, Namibia.(University of Namibia, 2024) Ndove, Ester Ebba I.Orientation: The world and dynamics of work and family have been changing since the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the world’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the most rapid transformation of the workplace. All these changes may inevitably impact the work-family and family-work environments of parents of children with Down syndrome. Research purpose: The purpose of this study is to look into the relationship between WFC, FWC, and individual work performance among parents parenting children with DS in Namibia's Khomas region. Motivation for the study: The study was motivated by a lack of adequate and relevant research on Down syndrome in Namibia. Hence, this study attempted to fill gaps in research on Down syndrome, its relationship to work and family roles, and their possible effects on the individual work performances of working parents who have children born with Down syndrome. Furthermore, to comprehend the potential challenges faced by working parents of children with Down syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic, in which remote work became the new global norm across organisations, the study investigated how these adjustments affected the work-life balance as well. Research design, approach, and method: The study used a mixed-methods approach, especially a concurrent research design with non-probability purposive sampling, to accomplish this. The WFC questionnaire was used to evaluate work-family conflict; the FWC questionnaire examined family-work conflict; and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ) was used to measure individual work performance via a survey. SPSS version 28 was used to analyse the quantitative data. Concurrently, the study employed a narrative research design, with an in-depth, semi structured, open-ended interview guide serving as the study's qualitative data ii collection tool. The tool was created to document the individual experiences of working parents with Down syndrome in Namibia's Khomas region. The data was analysed using content analysis, and the themes that emerged were grouped together. Research findings: Only work-family conflict was found to negatively influence individual work performance at the 5% level of significance. These findings showed that family-work conflict was not a significant variable to impact individual work performance. The study found five themes from the qualitative analysis, which were: understanding Down syndrome; balancing caregiving and employment responsibilities; parental work performance and family commitments; the impact of family obligations on work; and organisational support and accommodation. Value: Insights gained from this study highlighted the need for more future research on similar characteristics, which may be the significant factors that affect individual work performance. The study results may all in all improve the individual work performances of parents of Down syndrome children in Namibia and recommend standard organisational strategies that may drive organisations to design appropriate and acceptable work expectations for both the employer and employees, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemicItem Exploring the relationship between self-esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills of third year students at the University of Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Nolte, HiletLiterature highlights the necessity of self-esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills across different stages and domains of life. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of self-esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills of third year students at the Windhoek-based campuses of UNAM, as well as to explore the relationships between self-esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills. Moreover, it intended to determine possible differences between male and female students with regards to levels of self esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills. Finally, this study aimed to determine whether self-esteem or resilience had a larger impact on the level of problem-solving skills. This cross-sectional study used a quantitative research paradigm, with an inductive approach and a non-experimental, correlational research design. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD RISC), and the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI), in addition to a socio-demographic questionnaire, was employed to collect data from 326 participants through a probability sampling technique, simple random sampling. Data from the questionnaires were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SSPS) (Version 28.0) with descriptive statistics and inferential statistics used to explore the data on these constructs. Findings from this study revealed moderate overall levels of self-esteem, resilience and problem-solving skills with third year students at the University of Namibia. The study found significant, positive interactions between each of the three variables. In addition, there were no significant differences in scores of the three constructs for males and females. The study found that resilience had a larger impact (than self-esteem) on the level of problem-solving skills. Finally, it was established that resilience mediates the relationship between self-esteem and problem solving skills. Along with further local research and development of positive ii psychology, initiatives to cultivate inner resources, such as workshops and mentorship programs may prove helpful in the Namibian context so as to help citizens overcome difficultiesItem Exploring the relationship between self-esteem, depression and narcissism of undergraduate university students in Windhoek, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2023) Amadhila, Gregorius TugamenaThe relationship between narcissism, depression and self-esteem is worth exploring for the benefit of mental health awareness and promotion. This study's primary objective was to investigate the association between these variables among undergraduate university students in Windhoek, Namibia. The study was conducted with 147 undergraduate university students. The levels of self-esteem, depression and narcissism were assessed by deploying the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Beck Depression Inventory and Narcissistic Personality Inventory 40 respectively. Information was obtained through online self-administered questionnaires. Data was analysed using Microsoft Excel and then imported into Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Software (SPSS) version 25.0. The study found that there is a strong negative correlation between self-esteem and depression (-0.81), a moderate positive correlation between self-esteem and narcissism (0.67) and a weak negative correlation between depression and narcissism (-0.47). An observed limitation is that the sample size used for the study is relatively small. The researcher recommends that further research be carried out at other institutions of higher learning in Namibia. Furthermore, the study did not focus on the direction and strength of the relationship between these variables. The researcher thus recommends that further research be carried out to fully understand the nature, direction as well as strength of the relationship between self-esteem, depression and narcissism. In view with the findings by Rousseau et al. (2021), the findings from the present study imply the necessity of preventive interventions during vulnerable undergraduate study periods and lay the iii groundwork for treatment plans that are specifically adapted to the needs of the most susceptible undergraduate students at the University of Namibia (UNAM)Item An exploration of the perceptions of caregivers regarding the psychosocial support needs of hearing impaired children: A case study of the Usko Nghaamwa Special School in the Ohangwena region, Namibia.(University of Namibia, 2023) Nuule, MarthaThis qualitative study was undertaken to explore the perceptions of caregivers regarding the psychosocial support of hearing impaired children at the Usko Nghaamwa Special School in the Ohangwena region of Namibia. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews by means of audio recordings and field notes. Five teachers and five parents were interviewed separately. The study established that the teachers had a better understanding of the necessary psychosocial support of children with hearing impairment, whereas the parents had little understanding of such support. Furthermore, teachers also indicated that parents lacked support and were not involved in the lives of these children. Some teachers indicated that they had not received training in sign language or special education. The study also found that there was no peer-to-peer support group for special educators. Parents indicated that they had little understanding of ways to deal with a hearing impaired child; they mostly ended up treating this child like a normal, hearing child. Parents indicated that some community members still lacked the skills necessary to accommodate deaf children. Parents indicated that they had not had any form of training in the way to handle a hearing impaired child or to communicate with such a child. Parents stated that there were not parent-to-parent support groups in their areas. As part of the possible solution, this study recommends that all teachers dealing with children with hearing loss should receive training in special education. Furthermore, parents with such children should receive basic training in sign language and organise parent-to-parent support groups. There should also be peer-to-peer support groups for teachers, while training in ways to handle and care for a child with hearing loss should be provided. Finally, this study informed the policy makers to address the psychosocial needs of the HI in general.Item An exploratory study of social workers' experiences of working with HIV and AIDS infected clients in the Khomas, Kavango East, and Oshikoto regions(University of Namibia, 2023) Katupao, Melissa Veronica P.Social workers as professionals largely work within health and social services-related settings. This study explored social workers’ experiences in working with HIV and AIDS infected clients in the Khomas, Kavango-East, and Oshikoto regions. The study adopted a qualitative approach, and a phenomenological design was used. Data collection was done through semi-structured interviews. The study population included state social workers from three different regions of Namibia. Specifically, the Rundu hospital, Windhoek Central hospital, Katutura State hospital, Tsumeb District hospital, Omuthiya hospital, and the Onandjokwe Intermediate hospital. A total of eleven social workers were selected to participate in the study, using the convenience or availability sampling technique. Braun and Clarke’s six-step model of thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings of this research uncovered four major aspects: Firstly, most social workers worked in a multi-disciplinary environment. Secondly, social workers perceived their work experience as both negative and positive. Thirdly, the lack of in-service training, poor supervision, human resources management injustices, and compassion fatigue are institutional challenges encountered in their work environment. Fourthly, social workers use coping mechanisms such as debriefing, positive self-talk, and time off from work to mitigate work related stressors. The study thus proposed the following recommendations: the development and implementation of an in-service and supervision training guide for social workers working at the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS). Secondly, the implementation of a specialized social work program at UNAM will enable social work students to focus on a specific area of expertise. Finally, the Social Work and Psychology Council of Namibia (SWPCN) should advise the MoHSS on the optimal working conditions for social workers in the public health sector.Item Investigating the impact of emotional intelligence and job satisfaction on work engagement and burnout of employees in the public sector, Windhoek(University of Namibia, 2022) Ingo, Selma N.K.The public sector is required to have a diverse, competent, and well-managed workforce that is capable and committed to delivering quality services to the Namibian people. In helping achieve this, the purpose of this study was to identify whether emotional intelligence and job satisfaction have an impact on employee work engagement and burnout. Further examination of whether work engagement and burnout are experienced differently according to sex, age, tenure, rank, number of dependants, educational qualification, and marital status was also undertaken. The focus is on public service employees specifically from the offices of the: Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation; the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade, and the Ministry of Finance in Windhoek. The convenience sampling technique was used, with the data collected from 130 employees. The study took on a quantitative approach by making use of questionnaires. The Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (EQQ) was used to measure emotional intelligence; the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS) measured job satisfaction; the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) measured work engagement and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was used to measure burnout. The Cronbach Alpha, the Pearson correlation and, Kruskal-Wallis test were used to analyse the data. The study found a positive correlation between emotional intelligence with burnout (r=.10, p < 0.05) and work engagement (r= .21, p < 0.05), as well as a positive correlation between job satisfaction with burnout (r= .07, p < 0.05) and work engagement (r= .25, p < 0.05). Overall, emotional intelligence and job satisfaction have a positive correlation with work engagement and burnout. An emotionally intelligent and satisfied employee can become more engaged and can experience burnout. The study also reported that the variance in combined burnout is experienced differently based on sex, yet combined burnout and combined work engagement are not experienced differently based on age, number of years in the industry, marital status, number of dependants, highest qualification, and management level. The study recommends that human resources improve emotional intelligence and job satisfaction to influence employee engagement and burnout. Through emotional intelligence training and assessments, constant evaluation of job satisfaction and work engagement through surveys and regular practical day-to-day engagement activities. Introduce effective ii wellness programs and interventions to aid employees to cope with none work-related stress or demands. Further research is needed to further evaluate the experiences of burnout and work engagement with sex, age, tenure, rank, number of dependants, educational qualification and, marital status that was found.Item Understanding fears in middle childhood Oshiwambo learners in the Khomas region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2022) Lerch, MareikeChildhood fears are a common and normal aspect of every child’s development. However, although most childhood fears are relatively mild and temporary, they can be distressing for children and interfere with their daily functioning. In order to enable health professionals to support children to cope with their fears, research on the normative content, number, and origins of childhood fears is needed. Aim: The objective of this cross-sectional, quantitative study was to investigate the content, number, and origin of fears experienced by middle childhood Oshiwambo-speaking children from two schools in the Khomas region, Namibia. Method: In order to answer the research question a sample of 102 children between the ages of 10 to 12 years were asked to complete a questionnaire containing the Fear List Method (FLM) and questions based on Rachman’s (1977) three pathway theory of fear acquisition. The sample was recruited using the convenience sampling method. Results: The ten most frequently expressed fears in the sample in descending order were: snake, lion, dog, spider, elephant, cat, cow, cheetah, scorpion, and bad people. About fifty percent of the reported fears were animal related. Culture and context specific fears elicited, among others include crime related fears, fears towards people belonging to cultural groups other than the Oshiwambo culture, and a fear of Covid-19. The average number of fears exhibited per child was 8.38, with a mode of 7. The most frequently reported pathway of fear acquisition in the present study was classical conditioning, followed by transmission of negative information, followed by vicarious learning, with 19.04% of answers indicating that a child did not know how he/she acquired a fear. Conclusions: The results of the present study provided first suggestions as to what the normative content, number, and origin of fears in Oshiwambo-speaking children residing in the Namibian context could be, and how these could correspond to, or differ VI from, fear profiles of children residing in different contextual backgrounds. Recommendations: In order to determine the validity and reliability of the results obtained, further studies in this context are recommended. Furthermore, within the context of fear content of being afraid of people from another culture derived in this study, the effect of Namibia’s history of apartheid and the forced segregation between the ethnic groups residing in Namibia on the fear profiles of Namibian children merits further investigation.Item An exploration of romantic relationship quality of adults from divorced parents in Windhoek, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2022) Steenkamp, AlneParental divorce is not a uniform experience and diverse experiences associated with parental divorce may account for variation in romantic relationship outcomes among children of divorce. It is very likely that parental divorce may influence young adults’ romantic relationships by shaping their attitudes towards marriage or divorce and their commitment to their own relationships. Intimacy, security, commitment and trust in adult relationships are often threatened by having experienced a parental divorce sometime during childhood. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the quality of romantic relationships of (young) adults whose parents divorced. Little research has explored the connection between experiencing parental divorce as a child and the quality of the child’s adult romantic relationships. The study employed a qualitative research approach, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. The sample consists out of 11 Namibian adults between the ages of 25 and 35 years that lives in Windhoek, and who are in a long-term romantic relationship or married; the parents of one person in the relationship had divorced when he/she was growing up. The results revealed that almost all participants had a negative experience of their parents’ divorce which affected their perception toward divorce. Unfavourable attitudes toward own divorce were reported and favourable attitudes toward others getting a divorce. It further revealed that the overall level of commitment in the relationships of the participants resulted as very high. Participants’ satisfaction in their current relationship also resulted as high. Moreover, the quality of their relationships was not negatively affected. The study recommends interventions in the form of providing therapy to children of divorce and educating parents about the effect of divorce on the psychological functioning of children and adaptation.Item Assessing the impact of floods on food security in the Zambezi region: A case study of the Ikaba area(University of Namibia, 2022) Mabuku, Kennedy KaumbaThe present empirical study was conducted in the Ikaba area of Kabbe South Constituency (KSC) of the Zambezi Region, an area with a long and known history of persistent floods annually. Studies on flood and food security relations primarily focus on four dimensions of food security and have hardly received any attention from researchers, which is the reason that motivated this study. This study was aimed at assessing the impact of floods on food security by reviewing the lived experiences of those affected by flood in the Ikaba area of KSC. The present study used semi-structured interviews to collect data from a sample of 14 households that consisted of 9 to 23 people and 4 key informants in the Zambezi region who occupy keystrategic positions. A qualitative research approach was used, supported by the phenomenological research design. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to make sense of the participants’ accounts of the impact of the floods on food security. The study’s findings reveal that crop damages have been a recurring and uncontrolled phenomenon in the Ikaba area due to prevalent floods causing premature harvest, consequently affecting food availability. Besides, it has been found that accessing markets during flood time for all kinds of food is an unrealised endeavour, mainly due to a lack of proper road infrastructure in the area. In the end, food accessibility has become one of the food security dimensions that have been affected. The study further discovered that insufficient nutritious food has become a recurring trend within the Ikaba community regarding food utilisation. In addition, food utilisation was found to be affected by poor health status caused by contaminated food and water which comes with high health risks due to the floods. While food supply chain disruption affects food stability, the study also concluded that lack of food retailers and failure to access Agri-loans due to a lack of collateral by community members in the area affects food stability. The study concludes that the Ikaba area inhabitants suffer from acute food insecurity. Not all people in the area have both physical and economic access to readily accessible, sufficient and suitable food to meet their dietary needs for a productive and healthy life. In conclusion, the present study recommends the construction of permanent road infrastructure in the KSC to link the residents of Ikaba to the outside world, especially to markets. Also, the construction of a diversion canal, planting of early maturing varieties, improved access to affordable loans have been noted in the study as prospective coping strategies that may ameliorate the impact of floods on food security.Item Assessing the role of local authorities in mitigating the effects of climate change: A case of the City of Windhoek(University of Namibia, 2022) Amunkete, AinaThe African continent is faced with critical climate change challenges which need immediate attention. Local Authorities are mandated to play a crucial role in safeguarding the environment for areas under their jurisdictions. They are closer to the people; hence they are the immediate implementers of climate change mitigation activities. This study assessed the role of local authorities in mitigating the effects of climate change. Although there are many studies on climate change focusing on mitigation, there is a dearth of literature that addresses the role of local authorities. A qualitative case study was carried out in the City of Windhoek. Person-centred face-to-face semi-structured interviews were used as the data collection method with an interview guide as the research instrument. Interview questions were structured in a way that captured information for all the objectives formulated. A sample of 22 respondents was purposively selected. Results indicate that the City of Windhoek is doing relatively well in mitigating the effects of climate change. The City of Windhoek is coordinating with other local and international organisations and it has managed to implement various mitigation activities such as water infrastructural development and road improvement amongst others. However, insufficient funds due to budget cuts from the City as well as shortage of experts working at the City, have adversely affected the mitigation efforts relating to climate change. The results also show that the City of Windhoek did not make deliberate budget provision for climate change mitigation due to lack of funds. While this research provides some ground breaking discoveries; a number of limitations exist. These include the use of a purely qualitative methodological approach with a small sample size. In future, research can be conducted using a quantitative research method and a bigger sample size, allowing for more generalisable outcomes and recommendations.Item An assessment of social protection and the living conditions of the elderly: A study of Omatunda village, Ohangwena region(University of Namibia, 2022) Haukena, Kulaumone M.In Africa, ageing is a phenomenon that is just beginning to reveal its shape. Most governments, including the Government of the Republic of Namibia, acknowledge the increasing number of older persons. Social protection interventions usually include measures to provide adequate housing and nutrition, ensure access to education, health and promote social inclusion and political stability. The lack of access to social protection constitutes a major obstacle to the socio-economic development and wellbeing of the elderly. This was a mixed method descriptive design: a study of Omatunda village, Ohangwena Region of Namibia. The primary objective of the study was to determine the extent to which the Namibian social protection scheme affords to bring a decent living for the rural elderly people in Omatunda village. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample from the population of elderly people above the age of 60 and living in Omatunda village rural Namibia. The results show that about 76% of the respondents were female, while 24% were male. The majority of the respondents 47.6% were between the ages of 70 – 79 years. The majority of the respondents 52.4% were married and 23.8% were a widow. Furthermore, 14.3% were never married, while 9.5% were divorced. About 100% of the elderly people interviewed were receiving Government grant (pension) every month as their main source of income, however, only 43% were satisfied with the amount they are receiving, they perceived the social assistance grant as enabling them to provide the necessities of life and to pay their grandchildren’s school fees. However,about 57% of the elderly were displeased with the grant, which means 48% were neutral and 9.5% were unsatisfied at all. The study revealed that the respondents do use pension funds for a lot of their basic needs, however, noted that all the needs are not covered. Furthermore, the study revealed that there is a public health facility in the area where elderly people are receiving medical care free of charge, only 57% were satisfied with the health service to them, 43% were not satisfied due to long waiting time in the queue as well as the frequently stock out of essential medicines. Although the study revealed that the general health condition of the majority of the respondents is reported to be good, this does not mean that they are unrestricted from challenges. Like many other people, elderly people are faced with numerous challenges which are both social and economic. The study concluded that the old-age pension fund is regarded as a most vital source of income for many households and it is used to improve the living condition of the elderly.Item Investigating the influence of leadership styles on work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Khomas region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2022) Hough, Michael N.Within the sub-Sahara context where resources are limited, strong and committed leadership is important for the positive functioning of health care facilities. This study investigated the impact of leadership styles on the work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Khomas region, Namibia. This study aimed at determining the prevalent leadership styles, work stress levels, job satisfaction and work engagement of health care professionals within the Namibian healthcare sector. Furthermore, this study provided practical recommendations to help improve medical care by enhancing the leadership styles, engagement, job satisfaction and decreasing work stress levels of medical professionals. A quantitative research approach via a questionnaire was used to collect data on the biographical details, leadership styles, work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement of employees. The sample consisted of n=179 healthcare professionals working within private and state facilities within the quantitative research method. Correlations were found between the subconstructs of leadership styles and the subconstructs work stress, job satisfaction and work engagement. Negative relationships were found between intellectual stimulation and role ambiguity (r = -.37, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); intellectual stimulation and coworkers (r = -.37, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); transformational leadership and coworkers (r = -.31, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); laissez-faire and dedication (r = -.31, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect); laissez-faire and work engagement (r = -.30, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect). Laissez-faire reported a positive relationship with work stress (r = .42, p ˂ 0.05; medium effect). Practical implementations include encouraging supportive leadership, implementation of protocols to reduce stress levels and recognising high performance can increase engagement. Social projects and prioritising the physical and mental health of employees may enhance the well-being of employees. This novel study is the first of its kind to investigate these dimensions within the healthcare sector in the Khomas region and adds to the existing knowledge within the healthcare sector for future researchers. This study will assist healthcare facilities to develop interventions to enhance job satisfaction, work engagement and decrease job stress.