| dc.description.abstract | This study explored psychological strengths within an African context. Individuals in the
North West province of South Africa are confronted with various stressors such as HIV,
crime and unemployment, and yet they are found to be functioning successfully in spite
of these stressors. The aim of the study was to identify the strengths that help individuals
cope in the face of the stressors confronting them. Particular strengths coinciding with
Western strengths were investigated, as well as those that appear to be specific to the
Setswana culture. The study comprised two phases. Phase 1 involved two focus groups
in an attempt to identify broad categories of strengths. Phase 2 involved individual
interviews aimed at an in-depth investigation of the said strengths. Participants were
mother-tongue speakers of the Setswana language, aged between 20 and 29 years, and
exposed to poor socia-economic conditions.
Whereas spirituality and a religious orientation amongst participants could be likened to
features of Western culture, its manifestation in an African context may differ. In a
similar way, the participants' hope and awareness of the future are regarded as strengths
within Western culture. Also the sense of humour that prevailed is seen as a strength by
Western communities. Wisdom, however, in spite of its positive status in Western terms,
has a different meaning in an African context.
Strengths that seem to be specific to the Setswana group include social support and a
community spirit, which can be regarded as their prime strength. Human skills directed
at the well-being of the group also belong to these unique strengths, and so do traditional
practices creating a feeling of belonging and participation. While these strengths appear
to be unique in Setswana culture, it is not implied that they are totally lacking in Western
society, but that they do not enjoy the same priority. Further research is recommended to
determine the generalisation of the results. | |
