Exploring African interpretations of the core values of the Choose Life Training Programme by means of narratives

Abstract

Dealing with one of South Africa's biggest challenges, the HIV and AIDS pandemic, requires special recognition for unique and diverse interpretations of the problem. The Choose Life Training Programme (CL TP) focuses on ethical issues and a value-based lifestyle and is structured to include the following six core values: respect, responsibility, integrity, fairness, love and service. The rationale for following a value-based approach lies in the influence that values have on the behaviour of individuals. Although the CLTP uses a holistic approach, is inclusive and acknowledges diversity, the study material is currently available in English only and much of the inherent meaning of the programme might be lost in translation to participants of African language orientation. It is suggested that for sustainable behaviour change to take place, the participants of the CLTP must experience a change in their values but also within the framework of their cultural understanding. If Western programmes like the CLTP want to make a difference in the battle against HIV and AIDS through the faith community they have to acknowledge African interpretations to adapt the programme to suit the needs of the people. The purpose of this study is to explore African interpretations of the six core values of the CLTP. The first part of the study (see Article 1) aimed to explore the African participant's initial interpretation of the six core values. In the second part of the study (see Article 2), focus group discussions were held to explore the narrative interpretations of these values and whether these were different from the Western definitions before and/or after completion of the CLTP workshops. This exploration was necessary in order to make recommendations towards the development of the programme to make it more acceptable and accessible for all South Africans.