Riglyne vir 'n maatskaplikewerk-hulpverleningsprogram aan kinders wat aan huisbraaksituasies blootgestel is

Abstract

GUIDELINES FOR A SOCIAL WORK SUPPORT PROGRAMME FOR CHILDREN WHO WERE EXPOSED TO HOUSEBREAKING The purpose of this investigation was to present guidelines for a support programme for children in middle childhood, who were exposed to a housebreaking. To meet this goal the following aims were formulated : To investigate through literature and empirical study the influence of a housebreaking on children in middle childhood. To investigate through literature the task of the social worker in dealing with children in middle childhood who were exposed to a housebreaking. To formulate guidelines after the literature and field study for a social work support programme, especially for children in middle childhood who were exposed to a housebreaking. To realise these aims a literature study and an empirical investigation were embarked upon. The literature study was used to determine whether any research has been done in this field . Both the literature study and the empirical investigation were necessary to establish guidelines for a social work support programme. Furthermore, it was necessary to determine whether the investigation would have any value and if it would be topical. After the topicality of the investigation had been confirmed the necessary research methodology and procedures that were going to be used, could be finalised. It was decided to use a survey as the research procedure for this investigation. A questionnaire prepared by the researcher, which was later completed during personal interviews, was used to determine the influence of a housebreaking on children in middle childhood. Thirty-five respondents in the Potchefstroom area were selected by means of the snow ball effect. African, Asian and White respondents participated in this investigation. It is evident from the investigation that housebreaking indeed has an influence on the child in middle childhood Social workers definitely have a responsibility towards these traumatised children. By means of the literature study and the empirical investigation guidelines could be given to social workers to conduct a support programme for children in middle childhood who have been exposed to a housebreaking. However, it is important that these guidelines be implemented according to the needs of the child. Social groupwork and casework can be used as methods during the support programme. In this investigation the value of social casework, however, is emphasised as the method that is most appropriate to give support to children in middle childhood who have been exposed to a housebreaking. Children in middle childhood who have been exposed to a housebreaking, as well as their parents can be guided to the development of insight into their situation, and furthermore to an effective social functioning by means of the implementation of various support strategies by the social worker. Finally, it should be mentioned that social workers should be aware of the influence that a housebreaking has not only on society, but especially on family members and more specifically on children. These traumatised children definitely experience problems in their social functioning, which require the expertise of professionals like the social worker.