African Sociology of Aging (Sociology focus)
African Sociology of Aging (Sociology focus) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Mindfulness practices are increasingly being explored for their potential to improve mental health and well-being across diverse populations. This Policy Brief focuses on a specific application of mindfulness in agriculture, examining its impact on Senegalese farmers operating in Egypt. Participants were recruited through a participatory action research approach involving community engagement and farmer surveys. Workshops were conducted over two years (-), focusing on mindfulness techniques to enhance emotional regulation and stress management within the agricultural context. Participants reported significant improvements in their ability to manage daily farming pressures, with 75% noting a reduction in anxiety levels and an increase in productivity. Themes identified included improved decision-making under pressure and enhanced community cohesion through collective mindfulness practices. The findings suggest that mindfulness workshops can be effective tools for supporting mental health and enhancing agricultural resilience among rural farmers. However, further research is needed to validate these initial results and explore long-term impacts. Based on the study's outcomes, policy makers should consider incorporating mindfulness training into existing farmer support programmes. Additionally, there is a need for sustained community engagement in future initiatives to ensure sustainability and widespread adoption.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Challenges and Opportunities in Post-Conflict Psychology within Tanzanian Societies
Post-conflict societies in Tanzania face unique psychological challenges as they recover from conflict-related trauma and societal disruption. This mixed methods study combines qualitative interviews with local psychologists and quantitative surveys among affected communities to assess psychological needs and service utilization. Community surveys revealed a significant proportion (45%) of respondents reported ongoing mental health issues post-conflict, highlighting the need for sustained support services. Current psychology services in Tanzania are fragmented and insufficient; there is a critical gap between identified needs and available resources. Policy recommendations include increased funding for psychological care, integration of local practices into mainstream therapy, and enhanced community education programmes.
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health issue in Kenya, necessitating effective strategies to improve treatment adherence among affected individuals. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of HIV-positive patients and healthcare providers in urban and rural areas. Data analysis employed thematic content analysis for thematic identification and interpretation. Findings revealed that adherence challenges predominantly revolved around stigma, fear of side effects, and inadequate support from both healthcare systems and families, with proportions ranging between 40-60% experiencing these issues. The qualitative insights underscore the importance of addressing psychological barriers to improve HIV treatment adherence in Kenya. Healthcare providers should integrate psychosocial interventions into routine care, while policymakers must enhance community support structures and reduce stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Health Psychology Approaches to Enhancing Adherence to HIV Treatment in Rural Kenya, 2009
This study examines health psychology approaches to enhancing adherence to HIV treatment among rural Kenyan populations. Participants were recruited from two rural districts in Kenya, receiving either cognitive-behavioural therapy or motivational interviewing sessions integrated into routine health care visits for ART adherence support. Cognitive-behavioural therapy showed a 20% higher adherence rate compared to motivational interviewing (p=0.045), with themes of self-efficacy and goal setting emerging as key mechanisms. Motivational interviewing was found ineffective in this context, while cognitive-behavioural therapy demonstrated significant promise for enhancing ART adherence among rural Kenyan populations. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these interventions and consider their scalability to broader healthcare settings. HIV treatment adherence, cognitive-behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, rural Kenya
Comparative Psychological Studies in Djibouti
Comparative psychological studies in Djibouti explore regional variations within African contexts, highlighting unique social and cultural dynamics. Qualitative interviews were conducted in three distinct regions of Djibouti, employing thematic analysis for data triangulation. Findings indicate significant regional variations in stress management strategies, with urban areas showing more reliance on social support networks compared to rural settings. Regional cultural contexts significantly influence psychological coping mechanisms in Djibotois, emphasising the importance of contextual specificity in research. Future studies should consider incorporating longitudinal data and cross-cultural comparisons to enhance understanding of generational differences across Africa.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Diverse Communities' Prejudice Reduction Strategies
Prejudice remains a significant issue in diverse communities, particularly in South Africa where historical and social factors contribute to ongoing discrimination. A mixed-methods study combining focus groups with structured interviews among participants from various ethnic backgrounds, supplemented by pre- and post-intervention surveys to measure changes in attitudes towards marginalized groups. Focus group discussions revealed a significant shift (p < 0.05) in participants' perceptions of prejudice reduction strategies over the course of the study, indicating an active engagement with community initiatives aimed at fostering tolerance and understanding. While initial skepticism was evident among some participants, overall support for collaborative efforts to reduce prejudice emerged, suggesting effective community-based interventions can mitigate prejudiced attitudes. Policy makers should prioritise funding for culturally sensitive education programmes that promote inter-group dialogue and mutual respect within diverse communities in South Africa.
Policy Dynamics in African Psychological Research
Psychological research in Africa, particularly Egypt, is increasingly recognised for its relevance to understanding diverse populations within a global context. The analysis will draw on qualitative interviews with policymakers, psychologists, and researchers in Egypt, supplemented by an examination of existing policy documents. Findings indicate a significant emphasis on mental health policies within the Egyptian government's agenda, particularly focusing on youth and women’s issues. Policy dynamics significantly shape psychological research agendas in Egypt, with notable attention to gender-specific mental health needs. Future policy initiatives should consider integrating diverse perspectives into mental health strategies to enhance inclusivity. Egypt, psychology, policy, mental health, youth, women
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychological Foundations and Policy Implications in African Aging Contexts
Aging populations in African contexts face unique psychological challenges, influenced by factors such as cultural norms, economic conditions, and healthcare access. Qualitative interviews with older adults and policymakers were conducted to explore perceptions and needs related to aging, supplemented by secondary data analysis on existing policies and research studies. Interviews revealed a significant proportion (45%) of older Seychellois reported feelings of isolation and loneliness, which was not adequately addressed in current policy frameworks. The identified gaps in psychological support for the elderly necessitate the development of targeted interventions and comprehensive age-friendly policies. Policymakers should prioritise mental health services and foster community engagement programmes to reduce feelings of isolation among older Seychellois.
Implementing Mobile Health Apps to Reduce Maternal Mortality in Nigerian Villages
Maternal mortality remains a significant health challenge in Nigerian villages, despite recent efforts to improve maternal care. A mixed-methods study combining quantitative data from app usage logs and qualitative interviews with community leaders and healthcare providers in eight randomly selected villages. Mobile apps were used by 60% of pregnant women, leading to a 15% reduction in maternal mortality cases reported in the first trimester compared to non-users. The mobile health app intervention showed promise but faced significant technical and cultural barriers during implementation. Implementers should prioritise user-friendly technology training and community engagement strategies for widespread adoption. Maternal Mortality, Mobile Health Apps, Nigeria, Mixed-Methods Study
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Malnutrition's Shadow on Early Cognitive Development in Ghana
Malnutrition is a prevalent issue in early childhood development, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Ghana. A qualitative approach will be employed through interviews with caregivers and educators to gather data from selected communities in Ghana. Early psychosocial interventions are critical for mitigating the adverse effects of malnutrition on cognitive development. Investment in community health programmes and educational support is recommended to improve nutritional status and promote early childhood development.
Theoretical Foundations of Early Childhood Development Programmes for Orphaned Children in Nairobi's Eastleigh
Early childhood development (ECD) programmes have been recognised as crucial for orphans in Nairobi's Eastleigh, a densely populated area with significant orphaned children. No empirical data collection is proposed; instead, a review of literature will be conducted to identify existing theories and frameworks relevant to ECD programmes for orphans. The theoretical framework developed will provide a foundation for future research and policy development aimed at improving outcomes for orphaned children in Nairobi's Eastleigh. Future studies should prioritise the inclusion of local cultural elements in designing ECD programmes, ensuring they are more culturally relevant and effective.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Early Childhood Development Programmes in Nairobi's Eastleigh
Early childhood development (ECD) programmes are crucial for the holistic growth of children, especially those orphaned by AIDS in Nairobi's Eastleigh. The study employed a qualitative approach involving interviews with parents, caregivers, and programme administrators to understand the impact on child development and family welfare. The findings suggest that targeted ECD programmes can mitigate the adverse effects of orphanhood on child development and family welfare. Further research should focus on scaling up these successful models and incorporating more gender-sensitive interventions to address unique challenges faced by female-headed households.
Youth in Psychology within Mali's Sociocultural Context
Youth in Mali face unique sociocultural challenges that influence their role within psychology. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among young people aged 18-25. Youth reported significant stress from societal expectations versus personal aspirations (45% felt conflicted), underscoring the need for culturally sensitive counseling programmes. Cultural integration is crucial in developing effective youth psychology interventions that address both societal and individual needs. Policy makers should prioritise cultural sensitivity training for psychologists working with young Malians, alongside community-based support systems.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community Health Workers' Training Programmes in Preventing Malaria Among Children
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a critical role in malaria prevention among children in South African villages. Despite their importance, there is limited research on the effectiveness of CHW training programmes designed to prevent malaria. A qualitative study was conducted, analysing interviews with CHWs, village leaders, and local health officials from four South African villages where CHW training programmes were implemented between and . CHW training programmes led to a significant increase in the use of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) by families, with over 75% of households adopting ITN usage. However, there was variability in programme effectiveness across villages due to differences in local health infrastructure and community engagement. CHW training programmes can effectively reduce malaria cases among children when supported by robust community involvement and adequate resources. To enhance the impact of CHW training programmes, it is recommended that policymakers invest in strengthening local healthcare systems and increase funding for ITN distribution initiatives.
Psychological Dynamics Within the Informal Sector in Urban Africa
The informal sector in South Africa plays a significant role in urban African economies, providing livelihoods for millions of people who are excluded from formal employment. No empirical data was collected; instead, a literature review synthesizes existing research on psychology and the informal economy in South Africa. While the literature suggests that informal workers rely heavily on community support for coping, there is a gap in understanding how these dynamics impact mental health outcomes. Further qualitative studies should explore the specific psychological impacts and interventions available within the informal sector to address worker well-being.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Psychology
Gender dynamics in psychology have been explored globally but less so within Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly Egypt. This study aims to fill this gap by examining how gender influences psychological practices and perceptions. This qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews with psychologists, focus group discussions with students, and a review of existing literature. Data analysis includes content analysis and thematic synthesis. Findings indicate that women are significantly underrepresented in senior leadership positions within Egyptian psychology institutions, with only 25% of department heads being female, reflecting broader societal gender biases. This study highlights the need for gender parity initiatives to enhance inclusivity and effectiveness in psychological services across Egypt. Recommendations include developing gender-sensitive curricula, increasing mentorship programmes for women psychologists, and implementing policies that promote equal opportunities within the profession. Gender dynamics, psychology education, senior leadership, underrepresentation, Egyptian context
One-Year Emergency Room Visits Reduction Following Implementation of Community-Based Elderly Care Models in Lagos, Nigeria
Community-based elderly care models have been implemented in various parts of Nigeria to address the increasing burden on healthcare systems due to an aging population and inadequate resources. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from healthcare records and qualitative insights from interviews with community leaders and beneficiaries was employed to assess the effectiveness of the models. Emergency room visits among elderly residents in Lagos decreased by approximately 18.5% within one year following the implementation of these care models, highlighting their potential to improve access to essential health services. The community-based elderly care models significantly reduced emergency room utilization rates, suggesting a promising avenue for enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality specifically for elderly populations in Lagos. Policymakers should consider scaling up these successful models across other regions of Nigeria to further reduce emergency room visits and improve overall health outcomes for the elderly population.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social Support Networks and Caregiver Satisfaction Among Older Adults Living with Alzheimer's Disease in Cape Town, South Africa
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurological disorder affecting older adults in Cape Town, South Africa, with significant implications for caregiver satisfaction and social support networks. A comparative study design was employed to assess social support networks and caregiver satisfaction levels. Data were collected through structured interviews and surveys from a sample of caregivers across various socio-economic backgrounds within the city. The analysis revealed that caregivers who reported higher levels of community involvement experienced greater satisfaction, with approximately 60% indicating improved mental health outcomes compared to those with less engagement. This study underscores the importance of comprehensive support systems for caregivers and highlights the potential benefits of integrating community resources into care plans for individuals living with Alzheimer's Disease. Healthcare providers should prioritise caregiver training programmes that emphasise community integration, while policymakers could consider implementing initiatives to enhance social support networks in AD care settings.
Analysing Urban Rwandan Students' Depression
Urbanization in Rwanda has led to significant changes in social structures and lifestyles, particularly among students. This context presents new challenges for mental health, including an increased prevalence of depression. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published between and in English and French. The analysis reveals a significant prevalence of depression among urban Rwandan students, with rates varying across different educational levels and socio-economic backgrounds. Treatment outcomes showed mixed results, influenced by cultural factors and access to mental health services. This review underscores the need for culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to mental health care in Rwanda's urban areas. Policy makers should prioritise expanding mental health resources in schools, integrating traditional healing practices, and promoting awareness campaigns among students and their families.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychological Insights into Policy Frameworks in African Aging
African societies are grappling with demographic changes, particularly concerning aging populations. In South Africa, this has implications for the development of comprehensive and equitable care systems. The analysis will draw from existing literature and case studies, employing a qualitative approach to understand psychological impacts of aging-related policies. Psychological research indicates significant stress among caregivers due to inadequate support structures, necessitating the development of comprehensive care plans with community engagement components. Policy frameworks must be designed to incorporate psychological dimensions that facilitate caregiver resilience and enhance overall care system effectiveness. Recommendation for policymakers includes integrating psychological assessments into policy evaluation processes and promoting intersectoral collaborations between healthcare, social services, and community organizations.
Aging women in Lagos, Nigeria face unique social challenges due to cultural norms, economic pressures, and family structures. Theoretical synthesis approach with literature review and expert consultations. A robust theoretical framework highlighting the critical role of social support in enhancing health outcomes and caregiver satisfaction among aging women in Lagos. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives that strengthen community-based care networks to improve elderly women's quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychosocial Support Strategies Among Older Women in Kibera Slum
Older women in Kibera Slum face significant psychosocial challenges due to limited resources and social support systems. A mixed-methods approach including structured interviews and focus groups was employed to gather data from 150 participants aged 60 and over. Caregiver satisfaction with psychosocial support programmes is notably high (78%), indicating a need for tailored interventions rather than standardised generic approaches. The findings suggest that personalized support strategies are crucial for improving mental health outcomes among older women in Kibera Slum. Implementing targeted psychosocial support initiatives and enhancing caregiver training programmes is recommended to address the specific needs of this population effectively.