ELEMENTS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO RESILIENCE IN YOUNG WOMEN FROM A HIGH-RISK COMMUNITY

Authors

  • Yasin Nadat North West University
  • Susanne Jacobs North West University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15270/57-1-908

Keywords:

protective factors, religion, resilience, risk factors, Setswana culture, young women

Abstract

This article reports on the elements contributing to the resilience of young women living in a high-risk urban community in the North-West province (NW) of South Africa who cope with various forms of adversity. Young Black Africans in South Africa face a myriad of, particularly in informal settlement communities. High-risk factors include psychosocial threats and structural adversity. A qualitative challenges descriptive approach using semi-structured interviews with 14 participants was utilized. Major findings indicated that religion is a protective factor fostering resilience. Strong altruistic tendencies, for instance, to serve as role models and peer mentors to other at-risk young women in the community were presented as internal assets. Maternal figures provide external social support. Communities and practitioners should monitor and make available opportunities for programmes and peer mentorship initiatives supporting the acquisition of personal and social assets, as well as for attaining goals that promote wellbeing of the young, particularly those who are disadvantaged. There should be more focus on cultural practices in research by social workers. This project contributes to South African research on indigenous studies.

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Author Biographies

Yasin Nadat, North West University

Postgraduate Student

Susanne Jacobs, North West University

Faculty of Health Sciences, COMPRES, CCYF: Centre for Child, Youth and Family Studies

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Published

2021-03-29

How to Cite

Nadat, Y., & Jacobs, S. (2021). ELEMENTS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO RESILIENCE IN YOUNG WOMEN FROM A HIGH-RISK COMMUNITY. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, 57(1), 87. https://doi.org/10.15270/57-1-908

Issue

Section

Articles