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Item Open Access Modelling time-depended paired comparisons using soccer data(University of the Free State, 2023) Monareng, Joy; Sjölander, MorneThis study presents a comprehensive analysis of soccer ranking models, encompassing the evaluation of existing models, the introduction of a new time-series paired comparison model, and a comparative study of model predictions against official soccer rankings. The investigation into the landscape of professional soccer rankings reveals the limitations of traditional FIFA rankings, prompting the exploration of alternative statistical models. The Linear Thurstone 3 (LT3) model emerges as a standout performer, demonstrating consistent and accurate predictions, particularly in the years 2023 and 2026. However, inherent challenges, including data limitations, tournament dynamics, model assumptions, parameter standardization, and non-round-robin tournament structures, underscore the complexity of predicting soccer outcomes. The study provides recommendations for future research to address these limitations, emphasizing the refinement of models, improvement in data quality, dynamic model adaptation, ensemble modelling, cross-sport comparative analysis, and continuous evaluation. This research contributes to the ongoing pursuit of precision and fairness in professional soccer rankings. The dynamic nature of the field necessitates continuous refinement and adaptation of models to enhance accuracy. By addressing the identified limitations and implementing the recommended strategies, future research endeavours can contribute to a more nuanced and reliable understanding of team rankings in the ever-evolving world of international soccer.Item Open Access The dark triad, adjustment, and age as predictors of aggression amongst South African adult male offenders in a maximum-security correctional centre(University of the Free State, 2024) Naidoo, Kelsy; Jordaan, J.Violence and aggression are commonplace within South African correctional centres. Personality factors, adjustment to the correctional environment, and the offenders’ age may contribute to the continued aggression within the correctional environment. Many studies have confirmed the well-established relationship between the Dark Triad traits (three aversive, interrelated personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy) and aggression. However, fewer studies have explored the Dark Triad traits as predictors of aggression within the correctional environment, particularly in non-Western countries. Several studies have linked offender adjustment and age with aggression among offenders. This study aimed to investigate the individual and collective contributions of the Dark Triad traits, adjustment, and age as possible predictors of aggression amongst adult South African male maximum-security incarcerated offenders. This quantitative study sampled 366 male maximum-security offenders through convenience sampling. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design, this study investigated the relationships between the predictor and outcome variables. The data were collected using the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ), the Dark Triad Dirty Dozen (DDTD), and the Prison Adjustment Questionnaire (PAQ). The researcher conducted a hierarchical multiple regression analysis to determine which variable(s) or set(s) of variables explain a significant percentage of the variance in aggression amongst incarcerated adult male offenders. The findings revealed that the combination of all the predictor variables, including the Dark Triad traits as a set of predictor variables, were statistically and practically significant predictors of verbal aggression, physical aggression, hostility, and anger. The results from the study can thus assist with developing appropriate rehabilitative programmes for male offenders within the correctional environment.Item Open Access Generalised pliance as a mediator between conformity to masculine Norms and negative emotion among male students at a South African university(University of the Free State, 2024) Odendaal, Lara; Walker, S. P.Conformity to masculine norms has been implicated in numerous mental health difficulties among men. However, little is known about the potential psychological mechanisms by which conformity to masculine norms affects men’s mental health. Rule-governed behaviour in the form of generalised pliance has been implicated in overcompliance with social norms to the detriment of adaptive functioning. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of generalised pliance in the relationship between conformity to masculine norms and negative emotion. A sample of 336 male students from a South African public university participated in the study. Generalised pliance significantly mediated the interaction between negative emotion and conformity to masculine norms of self-reliance (𝛽=.056, 95% CI [.023, .093]), playboy-like behaviour (𝛽=.062, 95% CI [.024, .112]), and power over women (𝛽=.065, 95% CI [.028, .110]). The association between conformity to masculine norms in general and negative emotion was also mediated by generalised pliance (𝛽=.050, 95% CI [.020, .088]). The current study suggests that generalised pliance is one of the mechanisms by which conformity to certain masculine norms negatively affects emotional wellbeing among male students within the South African higher education system. Consequently, interventions aimed at undermining maladaptive rule-governed behaviour might prove useful in lessening the impact of conformity to masculine norms on the psychological health of this population.Item Open Access Predictors of TB and HIV/AIDS external stigma among healthcare workers in the Free State Province, South Africa(University of the Free State, 2024) Johnston, Helen-May; Engelbrecht, M.𝑬𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱: HIV/AIDS and TB are heavily stigmatised diseases that negatively impact health care service delivery and treatment outcomes. While there are numerous studies investigating healthcare workers (HCWs) stigmatizing TB and HIV patients, not much research has been undertaken on HCWs stigmatizing colleagues who have/are thought to have HIV/AIDS or TB. Therefore, this study sought to describe the levels of external HIV and TB stigma and to determine the factors associated with HIV and TB stigma among HCWs towards their colleagues. 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱𝘀: The study utilised post-intervention data from a randomised control trial among HCWs at public hospitals in the Free State, South Africa. Of the 286 HCWs based at control hospitals who completed self-administered questionnaires, 124 were clinical professionals (doctors, nurses and allied professionals) involved in direct patient care, and 162 were administrative and support staff not directly involved in patient care. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics as well as binomial logistic regression to predict factors associated with external HIV and TB stigma. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: The results revealed more self-reported HIV stigma than TB stigma enacted towards colleagues. Slightly less than half of the respondents (47.6%) had high levels of HIV external stigma, while only one in five (20.7%) had high levels of TB external stigma. HIV external stigma was associated with a lack of personal contact with HIV-positive co-workers (AOR: 2.137, CI: 1.267-3.606, p=0.004), female gender (AOR: 2.336, CI: 1.326-4.114, p=0.003), and low to moderate HIV knowledge (AOR: 2.052, CI: 1.095-3.845, p=0.025). TB stigma was predicted by age only, with older HCWs being more stigmatising than their younger counterparts (AOR: 1.042, CI: 1.006-1.079, p=0.023). 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: The study identified higher levels of HIV external stigma than TB external stigma among HCWs. These findings suggest that HIV and TB stigma have different origins and manifestations and that various factors, such as the modes of transmission, perceived responsibility, social implications, treatment outcomes, and historical contexts of the respective diseases, may influence them. As a result, interventions for reducing stigma in healthcare settings should be tailored to the specific characteristics and needs of each disease and its affected population. ___________________________________________________________________Item Open Access Media and technology usage, attitudes towards media, sex, and generational status as predictors of mental health among university students(University of the Free State, 2024) Eksteen, Natasha Jacoleen; Jordaan, J.Research has shown that university students are a vulnerable population that faces multiple challenges, especially relating to their mental health. It has become evident that depression, anxiety, and stress are common mental health concerns reported among undergraduate university students. Although various factors contribute to the reported increase in depression, anxiety, and stress, one prominent and concerning factor that has been identified is student’s media and technology usage in their daily functioning as well as their attitudes toward media and technology usage. The main objective of this research study was therefore to determine which predictor/independent variable(s) or combination of variables investigated in the current study were responsible for the largest percentage of variance in the mental health (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) of undergraduate university students. The predictor/independent variable(s) that were investigated includes media and technology usage, attitudes towards media, sex, and generational status of students. Moreover, the differences in mental health of undergraduate university students with regards to sex (male vs female), and generational status (first-generation vs non-first-generation) were also investigated in the study. This study used a quantitative research approach along with a non-experimental research type. Moreover, a cross-sectional correlational research design was used to investigate the relationship between the different dependent and independent variables. An existing data set of a research project was used in the study. The sample included 1191 undergraduate university students, between the ages of 18 and 29 years old, from the Faculty of the Humanities at the University of the Free State (UFS), Bloemfontein, South Africa. The study made use of the 𝘋𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘈𝘯𝘹𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘚𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘦 (DASS) and the 𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘯𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺 𝘜𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘚𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘦 (MTUAS) to measure the students’ mental health and media and technology usage as well their attitudes towards media and technology respectively. The results from the hierarchical regression analyses indicated that the combination of independent (predictor) variables statistically significantly predicted Depression and Anxiety respectively, with both findings indicating medium practical significance. The results of the stepwise regression analyses conducted indicated that five of the nine independent variables, namely Media Usage for Leisure, Preference for Task Switching, Positive Attitudes towards Media and Technology, Media Anxiety/Dependence, and Media Usage for Communication in combination statistically significantly contributed to 12.2% of the total variance in Depression. Moreover, five of the nine independent variables, namely Media Usage for Leisure, Preference for Task Switching, Positive Attitudes towards Media and Technology, Media Anxiety/Dependence, and Media Usage for Communication in combination statistically significantly contributed to 13.8% of the total variance in Anxiety. Lastly, five of the nine independent variables, namely Preference for Task Switching, Media Usage for Leisure, Media Anxiety/Dependence, Positive Attitudes, and Negative Attitudes made a statistically significant contribution to the variance of Stress, although the results indicated that these variables, individually or in combination, were of no practical significance.Item Open Access Emotional regulation and living with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: interpretative phenomenological analyses of adolescent and parental experiences(University of the Free State, 2023) Mamontov, Antonina; Nel, C.𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗻𝗲 The first section of the dissertation presents an integrated background and overview of the research. This section comprises existing literature and theoretical concepts that apply to the second and third sections of the study. The aim and methodology sections will be presented that outline the methodological procedures utilised in both articles, which will be presented in the third and second sections of the study, respectively. 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an example of a neurodevelopmental disorder which is typically diagnosed at a school-going age (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2022; D’Souza & Karminiloff-Smith, 2016). Other examples of neurodevelopmental disorders include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), communication disorders, and intellectual disability. The aetiology of ADHD is an intersection between polygenetic and environmental factors (APA, 2022; Jendreizik et al., 2023). Three presentations of ADHD have been acknowledged (APA, 2022), including a primarily inattentive presentation (associated with distractibility, difficulty sustaining tasks and difficulty concentrating), a primarily hyperactive and impulsive presentation (associated with increased movement, fidgeting, restlessness, interrupting, and finding it difficult to wait turns), as well as a combined presentation in which both hyperactive and inattentive features are present (APA, 2022; Felt et al., 2014). All the presentation types have underlying deficits in executive functioning tasks such as planning, organising and time management (APA, 2022; Sudre et al., 2021). In neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and ASD, difficulties with executive functioning can limit psychological flexibility and effective emotional regulation (Cai et al., 2018; Shaffer et al., 2023). To be diagnosed with ADHD, the associated symptoms must impair general functioning in multiple domains, such as occupational, academic, social, and familial domains and must be considered developmentally inappropriate (APA, 2022; Faraone et al., 2019). ADHD has also specifically been associated with emotional difficulties, such as deficits in regulating emotions, emotional impulsivity, and inadequate social cognition (APA, 2022; Faraone et al., 2019; Tarle et al., 2021). The severity of an adolescent’s ADHD can influence the extent to which certain symptoms or impairments present (Woods et al., 2021). Emotional regulation is the ability to alter or sustain the type, trajectory, intensity, and appropriateness of one’s emotions (Ford & Gross, 2019). This may require specific executive functioning tasks related to emotional evaluation, which can be impaired in individuals with ADHD (Christiansen et al., 2019). Young adolescents diagnosed with ADHD might have specific difficulties with impulsivity and sensitivity to criticism (Christiansen et al., 2019) and are at risk of experiencing social impairment and high-risk behaviours resulting from emotional dysregulation (Bunford et al., 2015). Despite emotional regulation difficulties being evident in both comorbid and non-comorbid cases and findings in support of an emotional subtype of ADHD in adults, emotional regulation difficulty is not included as a formal diagnostic criterion of ADHD (Faraone et al., 2019). Further research is still required to understand the adolescent’s experience of emotional impulsivity and emotional dysregulation in the specific context of ADHD. Their direct accounts in the form of a narrative description of their lived experiences of the impact of ADHD on their emotional regulation could deepen such an understanding. Additionally, ADHD diagnosis impacts the entire familial social microsystem (Bhide et al., 2019). Parental behaviours and parental involvement may be influenced by the child’s emotional difficulties (Martin et al., 2019). Therefore, a direct account of the adolescent’s parental caregivers (either biological and/or legal) could be important in understanding the emotional regulation challenges experienced by adolescents with the diagnosis. Moreover, South African data on the lived experiences of those with ADHD, and all the more those of their caregivers, is sorely lacking in the current body of ADHD research.Item Open Access Teaching and training experiences within applied master’s in psychology programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic: students’ perspectives(University of the Free State, 2023) Molete, Keitumetse; Nel, L.The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges to Applied Master’s programmes in Psychology, altering traditional teaching and training methods. While extensive research has explored the pandemic’s broader implications for higher education, insights into its influence on postgraduate Psychology education remain limited. This study addresses this gap, employing Rønnestad and Skovholt (2003) counselor development model to analyse the impact on students’ developmental paths. This study uses a qualitative research design to investigate eight distinct cases of Applied Master’s Psychology students across various South African universities. Through semistructured interviews, data were gathered and subsequently analysed through thematic analysis. Five main themes emerged from this exercise: 1) Lose and lost, 2) Not knowing, 3) Going virtual, 4) I am in need, and 5) Rising from the experience. Collectively, these themes highlight the multiple influences of the pandemic on the academic experiences of Applied Master’s in Psychology students. This research’s significant contribution is how it aligns the identified themes with Rønnestad and Skovholt (2003) model, offering deeper insights into how the transition affected key aspects of counselor/therapist development. Additionally, the study emphasises the significant role of institutional support and innovative teaching methodologies in enhancing learning experiences amidst a sudden virtual transition. The findings highlight the need for adaptive strategies and reforms within Applied Master’s Psychology programmes, advocating for flexible educational strategies that equip future psychologists to navigate global crises effectively.Item Open Access Perceived social support, aggression, age and repeat offending as predictors of coping amongst male maximum-security offenders(University of the Free State, 2022) Gwambe, Snethemba; Jordaan, J.; Cronjé, M.This dissertation consists of five chapters. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗢𝗻𝗲 introduces and orientates the reader to coping amongst incarcerated maximum-security offenders and emphasises the study’s problem statement, rationale/background, research aim, research questions, ethical considerations, and clarification of numerous concepts. Lastly, the value of the study is discussed. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝘄𝗼 provides the reader with an extensive literature review of coping amongst male maximum-security offenders and its related topics. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 provides the reader with an outline of the study’s research methodology used to meet the research aim and answer the research questions. The research approach, research design, sampling procedure and data collection procedures will be discussed in this chapter. There will further be a discussion on the measuring instruments, data analysis procedures and ethical considerations of the study. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿 presents all the study’s research findings. Lastly, 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝘃𝗲 encompasses a summary of the study’s findings. The value and contribution of the study will also be discussed, and chapter five will conclude with the limitations and recommendations for future research studies.Item Open Access The role of perceived social support in the relationships between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth in participants living with psychophysiological skin disorders(University of the Free State, 2022) Hawker, Shannon Jaimie; Tadi, N. F.; Makhakhe, L.Psychophysiological skin disorders affect a large number of people and are associated with a heavy burden of disease worldwide. It was reported that at least 30% of patients with skin disorders have significant psychological co-morbidities. Many studies only focus on the pathological aspects of these skin ailments, as well as the impact of psychological distress and poor mental health. However, it remains imperative to establish factors that enable these patients to develop their personal strength, to increase their self-esteem, and to receive adequate support. Thus, the aim of this study was to expand on this body of research by investigating the relationship between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth, as well as whether perceived social support moderates or mediates the relationship between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth in participants living with psychophysiological skin disorders. A sample of 100 participants aged between 18 and 60 years, who met one of the four types of psychophysiological skin disorders that this study included namely, Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis, Pruritus, and Alopecia were obtained from a hospital in Bloemfontein, Free State. Participants were selected using a non-probability, convenience sampling method. For the purpose of this study, a quantitative, non-experimental and correlational research design was utilised. The Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28 was employed to analyse the results of the study. In particular, the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients and multiple hierarchical regression analyses were performed to investigate the research objectives respectively. Results indicated that there is indeed a significant positive relationship between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth, with coefficients indicating a moderate to large effect size. Emotional-informational support, as an aspect of perceived social support, acts as a moderator between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth. Further, tangible support as an aspect of perceived social support did not moderate/mediate the relationship between self-esteem and posttraumatic growth. The current study’s findings emphasise the implication of distinguishing between the emotional-informational and tangible dimensions of perceived social support in aiding increased self-esteem and posttraumatic growth amongst participants living with psychophysiological skin disorders.Item Open Access Exploring perpetrator trauma amongst juvenile offenders incarcerated for violent crimes(University of the Free State, 2022) Mahlako, Grace Mashai; Jordaan, J.; Cronjé, M.Globally, extensive research has been conducted on psychological trauma. The main intention of this scientific enquiry was to provide insights into the explanatory and aetiological factors of such trauma, as well as provide measures of how to manage and treat it effectively. These scientific exercises within psychological trauma research have led to the development and recognising of posttraumatic stress disorder and acute stress disorder as official and diagnosable disorders. However, much of these research studies on psychological trauma and these trauma-related disorders have focused primarily on victims and witnesses of trauma, completely overlooking and neglecting offenders (perpetrators). Despite this, other scholars have sought to investigate whether perpetrators might experience psychological trauma and scarring from their actions. These scholars observed combat veterans and law enforcers who have committed murder or harmed others in their line of duty, as well as perpetrators of major atrocities such as holocausts and genocides. Their findings established and concluded that perpetrating violence is associated with various psychological consequences, particularly post-traumatic stress reactions. However, these scholars focused mainly on combat veterans, police officers, and perpetrators of mass atrocities, thus neglecting offenders, particularly juvenile offenders. In South Africa, juvenile offenders are largely at risk of violent offending due to various criminogenic risk factors predisposing them to violent offences. Both grey and empirical literature and government reports have established that juvenile offenders engage in more violent offences than any other offence category. Their involvement in these violent offences makes them more susceptible to developing perpetrator trauma, which might have deleterious and debilitating effects on their rehabilitation and reintegration, leading to cycles of violence and increasing their risk of re-offending. Therefore, this study set out to explore perpetrator trauma amongst juvenile offenders incarcerated for violent offences. The study was qualitative in nature, using descriptive phenomenology to provide descriptive accounts of perpetrator trauma as experienced by the participants. The nature of the study was both descriptive and explorative, while a single case study design was utilised as a research design. The study used a two-phase sampling procedure, consisting of convenience sampling during the first phase and purposive sampling in the second phase. The first phase consisted of 60 participants who completed a perpetrator trauma symptomatology screening questionnaire developed by the researcher. Participants who reported that they experienced various perpetrator trauma symptoms were then selected for the data collection. The data were collected using semi-structured audio-recorded individual interviews with 10 participants. The data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework for thematic analysis using both deductive and inductive methods (Abduction analysis). The analysis generated a total of six themes and nine subthemes. The findings revealed that the offenders experienced multidimensional consequences from their actions. They experienced emotional and moral torments for transgressing legal, societal, spiritual, cultural, and familial rules and norms governing human interaction and functioning. They also experienced various symptoms related to or associated with their offences and victims, including reliving symptoms, psychotic symptoms, psychogenic amnesia of the offence and the victims, and experienced a persistent negative emotional state. They also engaged in reckless and self-destructive behaviours, avoidant behaviours, and significant behavioural changes could be noted in their behaviour. There were also offence-specific and individual contextual factors that negatively influenced their trauma sequelae, such as their age, motivation for the offence, others’ responses to the offence, and the nature of the relationship with the victim. Incarceration also negatively influenced their trauma sequelae. Nonetheless, they reported various protective experiences, activities, and behaviours within the correctional centre and outside, which helped alleviate their distress. Lastly, they conceptualised their trauma as spiritually induced by their victims’ families to haunt them.Item Open Access Mental health literacy: knowledge and beliefs about mental illness amongst indigenous African residents of Dihlabeng Local Municipality in the Free State(University of the Free State, 2022) Matsoele, Nonhlanhla Faith-Crescentia; Tadi, N. F.For many years mental illness has been on the rise globally, internationally and locally. This could be attributed to a lack of mental health literacy, which contributes significantly to the disease burden and leads to healthcare delays, poor adherence to treatment and patient 'dropout' from healthcare services. This is true for many indigenous African societies who conceptualise mental illness based on their explanatory models of illness rather than according to western psychiatric nosology. While research seeks to explore and improve mental health literacy among the population, such studies remain limited in Africa. Therefore, this research study aimed to investigate mental health literacy among the indigenous African residents of Dihlabeng Local Municipality in the Free State. This study explored conceptions about three mental disorders, namely, depression, schizophrenia, and alcohol use disorder, as well as beliefs about their treatment. A quantitative design using a survey method was utilised, and a sample was drawn from two towns in Dihlabeng Local Municipality (Bethlehem and Fouriesburg). 240 indigenous Africans were recruited by the use of a randomised public recruitment strategy using a sample size calculator and they completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, Version 28.0. In consolidating the findings of this study, the results revealed several explanatory models, which included western and traditional explanations. Most participants did not use scientifically approved terms to conceptualise mental disorders but phrases relative to their respective contexts. The bulk of the participants conceptualised disorders as psychological. The results also showed the orderly manner in which the community's conceptualisation of mental illness was categorised in terms of psychological, social, medical, traditional and religious concepts. The traditional conceptualisation provided an exciting finding for schizophrenia. In addition, perceptions of mental illness were significantly related to participants' treatment beliefs. In terms of treatment, more participants were inclined to seek professional help and have someone who would listen to/talk to/support them. Interestingly, participants who expressed belief in seeking professional help for mental illness also reported professional-oriented (medical, social and psychological) causes of mental illness. In contrast, those who expressed beliefs in traditional forms of treatment for schizophrenia reported on traditional causes of mental illness. Lastly, the study also revealed a positive relationship between etiological and treatment beliefs for mental disorders among the participants, indicating a positive relationship between what participants believe to be the causes of mental illness. Their belief influences their preference of how best to treat mental illness. The outcomes of this study signify the importance of mental health literacy campaigns, a collaboration between traditional and medical practitioners, and increasing mental health services in communities. Further explorations of mental health literacy, specifically from an African indigenous perspective, are recommended for future research.Item Open Access Perceived social support and sense of coherence as Predictors of psychological well-being amongst university Students during a pandemic(University of the Free State, 2023) Rex, Diego Lamont Charltonio; Taylor, HenryUniversity students face unique psychosocial and mental health challenges during their studies. Given the already stressful experiences endured, the COVID-19 pandemic was also perceived as an unprecedented mental and physical health challenge globally. This dissertation examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Psychological Well-being (PWB) of South African university students. More specifically, this study aimed to investigate which variable(s) statistically and significantly explained a percentage of the variance in Psychological Wellbeing (PWB) amongst university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sense of Coherence (SOC) and Perceived Social Support (PSS) were investigated as possible predictor variables of PWB during the pandemic. This study utilised a quantitative, non-experimental research approach with a correlational design. The statistical relationships between the variables were determined through correlational analyses. Data was collected from a sample of 312 registered university students, consisting of male and female students from various age groups, ethnicities, and faculties. Nonprobability convenience sampling was utilised to obtain the abovementioned sample. This study utilised a self-developed biographical questionnaire and three measuring instruments, namely the 𝘔𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘚𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 (MSPSS), the 𝘖𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘘𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘦 (SOC-29), and 𝘙𝘺𝘧𝘧’𝘴 𝘚𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘴𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭-𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 (SPWB). Moreover, correlational analyses were computed to determine the statistical relationships between the variables, followed by a hierarchical multiple regression analysis (HRA). The HRA results demonstrated that the combination of all predictors (Comprehensibility, Meaningfulness; PSS from Family, Friends, and Significant Others) predicted 32.8% of the variance in Self-Acceptance (f² = .49). The combination of all predictors also predicted 23.8% of the variance in Personal Growth (f² = .31) and 38.9% of the variance in overall PWB (f² = .64). In addition, regression results also showed that the combination of SOC predictors (Comprehensibility and Meaningfulness), statistically and practically significantly accounted for 25% of the variance in Self-Acceptance (f² = .37). The SOC predictors (Comprehensibility and Meaningfulness) explained 20% of the variance in Personal (f² = .26). Additionally, this combination of SOC predictors predicted 26.2% of the variance of overall PWB (f² = .42). Meaningfulness was found to be the only statistically and practically significant individual predictor of university students’ Self-Acceptance, Personal Growth, and PWB, during the pandemic. Therefore, higher levels of Meaningfulness within overall SOC, could significantly predict higher levels of PWB amongst students. More research on SOC and PWB of university students is needed to validate these results.Item Open Access Tattoos as an expression of narrative identity among emerging adults(University of the Free State, 2022) Naudé, Francois; Naudé, L.The aim of this study was to explore and describe the use of tattoos as an expression of narrative identity among emerging adults. The practice of tattooing is almost as old as humanity itself, yet we are only now starting to uncover the profound and unique narratives that are expressed by these images. Narrative identity theory served as the framework for this study with the assumption that the self consists of three interconnected layers. The actor self is concerned with the present and the performance of social roles while the agent self focuses on the achievement of future goals by constructing and personalising a worldview. The author self becomes prominent during the emerging adulthood stage and attempts to make meaning of past nuclear events. Emerging adulthood is a distinctive life stage with multiple paths undertaken by individuals in the exploration of their unique identity. This qualitative study followed an explorative and descriptive research design rooted in a constructivist framework. Through purposive sampling, 10 emerging adults with at least one tattoo were selected. Data were gathered through the use of a reflective writing exercise and semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using thematic narrative analysis. The findings demonstrated that the emerging adults from this study used tattoos to express their affiliation with others. Tattoos also reminded participants of the nuclear events that form part of their life narratives. The resilience shown to overcome challenges was another aspect expressed by the tattoos. Furthermore, it was indicated that there still seems to be a generational gap, with older individuals reacting negatively to the participant’s tattoos. Finally, the findings showed that participants used tattoos to express their unique identities. This study emphasises the importance of all three layers of the self for narrative-identity development by describing how the actor, agent, and author use tattoos to perform their various roles. This study draws a similarity between tattoo narratives and aspects of narrative identity such as agency, communion, and meaning-making. The study also emphasises the importance of the balance between agency and communion. Furthermore, a unique perspective was presented regarding vicarious narratives and their possible role in altering the master narrative. Lastly, the study adds valuable knowledge to emerging adulthood theory by showing the applicability of the proposed developmental pathways within the South African context. This study illustrates the importance and relevance of research on tattoos for the expansion of knowledge in the fields of narrative identity and emerging adulthood.Item Open Access Emotional intelligence, adjustment, media and technology usage, and sex as predictors of psychological well-being amongst undergraduate university students(University of the Free State, 2021) Nel, Emma Nicole; Jordaan, J.Abstract not availableItem Open Access Repetitive negative thinking as a mediator between experiential avoidance and emotional distress amongst students at a South African university(University of the Free State, 2021-10) Munsamy, Kimberley Mariah; Walker, S. P.; McHugh, L. A.University students appear to report greater emotional distress than the general population. Experiential avoidance has been found to contribute to the development and exacerbation of emotional distress. Moreover, repetitive negative thinking may influence the relationship between experiential avoidance and emotional distress. However, no study has investigated the interaction of these variables amongst South African students. The current study thus sought to investigate (i) whether repetitive negative thinking mediates the relationship between experiential avoidance and emotional distress, and (ii) whether gender differences and/or educational status impact this interaction. Participants were 419 undergraduate students at a large public university in South Africa (Female=75.2%, First-generation students=37.5%). Participants completed measures of experiential avoidance, emotional distress, rumination, and worry. No significant differences were found with respect to emotional distress, experiential avoidance, or repetitive negative thinking across gender or educational status. Experiential avoidance and repetitive negative thinking accounted for 60.8% of the variance in emotional distress. Rumination emerged as the strongest predictor of experiential avoidance. Repetitive negative thinking partially mediated the relationship between experiential avoidance and emotional distress. Implications of these findings for mental health are discussed and areas for future research are identified.Item Open Access Coping, resilience, self-esteem and age as predictors of psychological well-being amongst undergraduate university students(University of the Free State, 2021-06) Basson, Monique; Jordaan, J.Psychological Well-being is considered to be more than merely being free from stress and not having any psychological difficulties. It incorporates positive self-perception, positive relations with others, environmental mastery, autonomy, purpose in life, and emotions focused towards healthy development (Ryff, 1995; Ryff & Singer, 1998; Sosik et al., 2017). Stress is often used in the description of coping, as, without stress, there is no need to cope (Jurji et al., 2018). The coping style that university students adopt is often used as a predictor for PWB and their ease of settling into the university environment (Pluut et al., 2015). Additionally, individuals with high levels of resilience are more often able to maintain PWB in stressful and adverse situations (Shahdadi et al., 2017; Videlock et al., 2016). Moreover, high self-esteem contributes to greater PWB than low self-esteem overall (Swann & Bosson, 2010). PWB is beneficial for adults to live a healthy life, making it an important aspect of one's life in the university years, which can be chaotic and full of psychological stress (Molina-García et al., 2011). This study aimed to investigate which variables or combination of variables (Coping, Resilience, Self-esteem, and Age) explain a significant percentage of the variance in Psychological Well-being (PWB) amongst undergraduate university students. In order to determine the correlations between the variables, a correlational design was central to the non-experimental, quantitative study. This research study made use of an existing set of data from a larger research project. A non-probability convenience sampling method was employed in the original research project to recruit 1191 registered undergraduate university students between the ages of 18 and 29 at the University of the Free State. The sample included participants from all ethnic groups, cultures, languages, genders, provinces, majors and religious backgrounds. The measuring instruments included a biographical questionnaire, Ryff’s Scales of Psychological Well-Being (SPWB), the Resilience Scale (RS), the Coping Strategy Indicator (CSI), and the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES). A correlation analyses was conducted, followed by a hierarchical multiple regression analyses which was used to analyse the data. From this, the combination of the predictor variables (Coping, Resilience, Self-esteem, and Age) statistically significantly predicted PWB. In terms of the hierarchical multiple regression results there was one result that was statistically and practically significant. With Self-acceptance as the criterion variable, the hierarchical regression analyses found that the combination of the independent variables (coping, resilience, self-esteem, and age) accounted for 37.3% of the variance in the Self-acceptance scores of the sample indicating a statistically significant result on the 1% level. Practically, this indicates that 37.3% of the variance in the Self-acceptance scores of the university students can be explained by the combination of their coping skills, levels of resilience, their self-esteem, and age. From this, 11.5% of the variance in the Self-acceptance scores of the sample is accounted for by Self-esteem as a statistically significant predictor variable. The medium comparable effect size (f2 = 0.18) suggests that this finding is of practical significance and the statistical significance is at the 1% level. In addition to the hierarchical multiple regression analysis, stepwise regression analyses was further conducted independently for each subscale of the criterion variable (Autonomy, Personal Growth, Positive Relations, Purpose in Life, and Self-acceptance). From the stepwise regression analyses, the discussion of the results focused mainly on self-esteem, which proved to significantly (both practically and statistically) account for the variance in the PWB dimensions. More research on PWB amongst university students in South Africa is required to validate these findings.Item Open Access Locus of control as moderator in the relationship between interpersonal relation behaviour and resilience in the High Reliability Organisation (HRO) environment of aviators(University of the Free State, 2021-11) Kotze, Izak Theo; Van Dijk, M.; Esterhuyse, K. G. F.The technological research and advancements of machines in the 21st century have accelerated the human endeavour into extreme and unusual environments. The establishment of these environments, such as the confined cockpit of an aircraft, has placed noted demands on the human capability to adapt to faster, more complex machines while saturated in an over stimulating environment (Antonovich, 2008; Driskell & Olmstead, 1989). The vast amount of research in this field has led to the enhancement and development of safer, more efficient machines. Consequently aviation is a field where errors occur rarely but where the consequences of any error are extreme. The potential for failure is high, however, the amount of actual occurring failures are low (Baker et al., 2006). This phenomenon qualifies aviation as a High Reliability Organization (HRO) (Baker et al., 2006; Bourrier, 2011; Rochlin, 2011). In the HRO environment the crew serves as the central core of all processes, thus highlighting human essence (Reason, 2001; Wesnser, 2015). Yet shortcomings exist in understanding and improving the social interaction of individuals as part of the crew in the cockpit of the aircraft (John Paul et al., 2010). Human beings are the source of resilience in the complex system of aviation and the reason that things go right (Dekker & Woods, 2010). The capacity to be resilient however is rooted within a bond of secure (close attachment) relationships yet cannot be attributed to one specific factor. These predictors are referred to as protective factors (Prince & Embury, 2013). Fundamental basic human needs, characterised by interactive relation behaviour (Sullivan, 1953) is deemed to be such an important protective factor. However, as much as the dynamic interplay of interpersonal needs are crucial for resilient behaviour when in distress, motivation to satisfy social needs can lead to behaviour that erodes resilience and interferes with preserving the living system. The phenomenon of locus of control (LOC), conceptualised as the belief that a person’s behaviour determines consequences either as an active agent, by being master of their own fate or by a function of chance (Thomas, 2017), may provide information on how to understand and improve the social interactive dynamic of the functioning of the cockpit crew and promote resilience (Woods, 2020). LOC may serve as the motivation for potential behaviour to attain interpersonal need satisfaction (Thomas, 2017). 2 Against this background the aim of this study was to investigate the dynamics of human interaction and human social needs in an HRO. More specifically, the objective was to identify whether there is a significant relationship between resilience and fundamental interpersonal orientation and secondly to determine if the behaviour that results from this orientation is moderated by a pilot’s locus of control. A quantitative research approach, non-experimental type has been employed. A correlational design was utilised (Howell, 2017). The measuring instruments included a biographical questionnaire, Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation-Behavioural Scale (FIRO-B), Aviation Safety Locus of Control Scale (ASLOC) and the Inventory to assess Behaviour towards Organisational Resilience in Aviation (I-BORA). Results from this study indicated that only low I-LOC statistically significantly moderates the relationship between interpersonal relation orientation and resilience of aviators in a positive way. The results found that in aviators with a low I-LOC an increase in their overall interpersonal relation orientation will lead to a direct proportional increase in their resilience. Furthermore, the findings indicated that E-LOC does not have a moderating effect on the relationship between interpersonal relation orientation and resilience. The finding emphasises the need for further research on the influence of LOC regarding the relationship between interpersonal behaviour orientation and resilience in the HRO context.Item Open Access Impulsive risk behaviours, self-harm, and demographic factors as predictors of coping amongst university students(University of the Free State, 2021-11) Harichand, Prianca; Jordaan, J.University students face significant levels of psychological distress due to the transitional period that they find themselves in, known as emerging adulthood, which, for young adults, is between the ages of 18 to 29 years. During this period, university students find it increasingly difficult as they encounter numerous stressors, have the tendency to lack the necessary coping mechanisms, have poor social support, experience rapid changes in social and psychological development, and have high academic expectations, while having to develop social roles and preparing for adult roles. Furthermore, university students tend to struggle with psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, a history of psychiatric hospitalisation, self-injury incidents, sexual assault concerns on campus, and alcohol-related issues. Consequently, due to the increase in the stressors and the psychological severity of problems during this transitional period, university students find it challenging to cope. This study aimed to investigate which variables or combination of variables (Impulsive Risk Behaviours, Self-Harm, Age, Gender, and Academic Level) explained a significant percentage of variance in Coping among university students. To determine the correlations between variables, a correlational design was necessary for this non-experimental, quantitative study. A non-probability sampling technique known as convenience sampling was used in this study. The sample comprised 471 university students from the University of the Free State from all ethnic groups and genders, aged between 18 and 29 years, enrolled for any major and on either undergraduate or postgraduate educational level from various departments within the Faculty of the Humanities. The students were from disciplines that included, but were not limited to, Psychology, Criminology, Anthropology, Communication Science, Sociology, and Political Science. The measuring instruments included a self-developed biographical questionnaire, the Impulsive Behaviour Scale (IBS), the Self-Harm Information Form (SHIF), and the Coping Orientation to Problem Experience (COPE) Inventory. Correlation analyses were conducted, followed by hierarchical regression analyses, which were used to analyse the data. The research findings highlighted that Impulsive Risk Behaviour demonstrated statistically significant positive correlations with (1) Behavioural Disengagement and (2) Substance Use Coping. Furthermore, a statistically significant positive correlation was found between Self-Harm and Substance Use Coping. Lastly, Impulsive Risk Behaviour statistically and practically significantly predicted Substance Use Coping among university students, which corresponded with previous research that stipulated a positive relationship between impulsive risk behaviours and substance use coping. However, the current study was not able to demonstrate a combination of predictor variables that predicted Coping among university students. Consequently, numerous variables yielded statistically significant results, although practical significance was not obtained and hence was not discussed in the study. The study’s findings demonstrate a relationship between Impulsive Risk Behaviour, Self-Harm, Disengagement Coping, and Substance Use Coping, which all are of concern among university students. These results indicate that students tend to utilise maladaptive behaviours and coping strategies to deal with their stressors. However, further research should be conducted on the predictors of coping among university students in South Africa to build on the knowledge created by this study.Item Open Access The relationship between identity status and career maturity in male and female adolescents in the South African context(University of the Free State, 2021-11) Mahlaba, Siphesihle P.; Naude, L.Adolescence is a transitional stage between childhood and adulthood and is characterised by numerous and multidimensional developments. Identity development is one of the major developments that takes place during this developmental phase. Identity develops through a process of exploration and commitment, influenced by a range of proximal and distal contextual factors. Furthermore, this psychosocial task is linked to other key domains of development such as career development. The development of a career is a long-term process and it is in adolescence where the first formal steps of crafting a career are noted. Associated with a successful career development process is the psychosocial factor of career maturity. Against this background, adolescents are required to be concerned about vocational goals while simultaneously shaping their identities. Accordingly, this research study aimed to explore a relationship between identity status and career maturity in male and female adolescents in the South African context. This research study is anchored by numerous theoretical frameworks including the Psychosocial Development Theory by Erik Erikson and Identity Status Theory by James Marcia, which were utilised to inform on identity and the development thereof. For the variable of career maturity the Career Development Theory by Donald Super, the Career Maturity Model by John Crites and the Career Construction Theory by Mark Savickas are referenced. A non-experimental-type, quantitative research study and correlational and criterion group designs were employed in this research study. The final sample of participants totalled 362. The sample of participants was obtained from the Mangaung area using a non-probability, convenience sampling approach. The participants had to be in the adolescent developmental phase and up to the maximum age of 21. Data was collected through a questionnaire battery. A biographic questionnaire was used to obtain biographic information. To measure ego identity status, the Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status (OMEIS) by Adams et al. (1979) was used and to assess career maturity, the adapted Career Maturity Inventory (CMI) by Crites and Savickas (as cited in Savickas & Porfeli, 2011) was used. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, namely the multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) and the standard multiple regression analysis, which revealed a significant and positive relationship between achievement identity status and career maturity. Additionally, the results by gender were found to be non-significant. Based on the results, it is concluded that a coherent sense of identity is a positive predictor of career maturity, while gender in the South African context is not an associated factor.Item Open Access Divorcees' experiences of emotional regulation within a co-parenting relationship(University of the Free State, 2021-10) Sangster, Heske; Kruger, I.Emotional regulation is generally defined as the process in which individuals attempt to control the intensity, duration and expressive behaviour concerning an emotion. It has been suggested that the context in which emotional regulation occurs significantly impacts the individual’s ability to successfully regulate emotions. A divorce can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to successfully regulate emotions. Scant literature exists on divorcees’ experience of emotional regulation in a co-parenting context. Various factors can influence co-parents’ ability to regulate their emotions during co-parenting tasks after a divorce. This study focused on the experience of emotional regulation within divorced co-parents. The researcher aimed to gain insight into these experiences by making use of a qualitative research design which is aimed at gaining in depth, authentic experiences of the participants. A multiple, single case study design was employed. The data was analysed by making use of thematic analysis. Gross’s process model of emotional regulation has been argued to be the leading model in explaining emotional regulation and the different regulatory strategies as it encompasses strategies employed throughout the generative course of emotions. This model was originally presented in 1998 and has been extended to the extended process model. The model is grounded on the modal model of emotions which conceptualises emotions as a four step process. Results and findings were thus discussed at the hand of this model. Results indicated that divorced co-parents makes use of a wide variety of emotional regulation strategies including adaptive and maladaptive strategies. Prominent emotional regulation strategies utilised by participants included; redirection of focus, reappraisal, adaptive behaviours as well as maladaptive behaviours.