Schizophrenia among Sesotho speakers in South Africa

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical presentation of schizophrenia among Sesotho speakers. Method: A sample of 100 participants diagnosed with schizophrenia was evaluated using the Psychiatric Interview Questionnaire. Results: Core symptoms of schizophrenia among Sesotho speakers do not differ significantly from other cultures. However; the content of psychological symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations is strongly affected by cultural variables. Somatic symptoms such as headaches; palpitations; dizziness and excessive sweating were prevalent among the Sesothospeaking participants suffering from schizophrenia. Conclusion: In South Africa; as is the case throughout the African continent; health professionals are still trained in Western models; especially DSM-IV-TR and ICD-10. Certain changes should be made to these models to account for cultural differences that were found in this research

Depression and exposure to violence among Venda and Northern Sotho adolescents in South Africa

Objective: Despite the high levels of violence in South Africa; a lacunae in research exists regarding the influence of violence exposure on children. This study investigated the correlation between children's exposure to violence and the development of psychological problems such as depression. Method: 186 Venda and 151 Northern Sotho adolescents were studied in a questionnaire survey to determine this relationship. Two measuring instruments were used: The Children's Depression Inventory and the Child Exposure to Violence Form. Results: When comparing gender; no significant differences were found in terms of overall exposure to violence between males and females. For depression; the total group of girls had a remarkably higher prevalence of depression. Regarding ethnic comparison; no significant differences were found in terms of overall exposure to violence or for witnessed events. However; the Venda adolescents had been victims significantly more often. Venda and Northern Sotho females had a similar prevalence of depression; but Northern Sotho boys had a higher depression rate than Venda boys. The correlation between victimisation and total group depression was relatively low for the Northern Sotho group; and non-existent for the Venda group. A significant correlation was found between total exposure to violence and depression for the overall group. Conclusion: This study indicates that adolescents' exposure to violence and subsequent mental health is an area of concern. However; adolescents could be taught effective coping and problem-solving techniques in schools to help empower them against stressors they might encounter

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Exposure to Violence among Venda and Nothern Sotho Adolescents

In this study; two research questions were posed. In the first place; this study investigated the levels of exposure to violence among the adolescents as a total group (Venda- and Northern Sotho-speaking); as well as the exposure levels of the two ethnic groups. The relationship between the groups' exposure to violence and their post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms was investigated in the second place; as well as the question whether a difference existed between the two ethnic groups in respect of this relationship. The participants were comprised of 186 Venda and 151 Northern Sotho adolescents; who completed the Child PTSD Checklist (PTSDC) and the Child Exposure to Violence Form (CEVF). A large proportion of participants reported high levels of exposure to violence. Venda youth appeared to be subjected to a higher rate of victimisation than the Northern Sotho adolescents. A strong correlation was found between exposure to violence and PTSD symptoms