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269 submissions
| # Sort descending | Operations | Status | Status | Title | Lastname | Firstname | Institution | Title of Presentatation | Theme Selection | Abstract | SID | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 166 | Accepted | Pending Review | Ms. | Zulu | Nikeziwe pretty | prettynmchibelihle@gmail.com | University of zululand | Power and Parenthood: A Review of Conflicts Between Teenage Parents and Their Caregivers | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | Abstract Teenage pregnancy is a world-wide phenomenon affecting various disciplines, social work is of no exception. Teenage pregnancy often causes major changes in families. When a teenager becomes a parent, their role in the family shifts, and this can lead to conflict with caregivers. This review paper looks at how these conflicts happen, especially around issues of power, decision-making, and identity. Using conflict theory and the family dynamics model this paper intends to understand how teenage parents may want to be treated like adults, while caregivers still see them as children who need guidance. Data collection was done through the reviewing of literature and document analysis based on teen parenthood, teen parent and caregiver’s identity and power relations, caregivers’ authority and the literature on how pregnancy shifts the teenager’s place in the family setting. The review shows that this role confusion can create emotional stress, tension, and poor communication. Caregivers may feel their authority is being challenged, while teenage parents feel misunderstood and unsupported. These challenges can affect the family’s stability and peace and the well-being of the child. Based on the review, the paper suggests that advocacy and support programs that help teenage parents and their caregivers work together with respect and understanding should be established in order to promote healthier relationships in families. Keywords: Teenage parenthood, power dynamics, family conflict, caregivers & peace building |
1148 | |
| 167 | Accepted | Pending Review | Mr. | Seakamela | Mokgoba charles | seakamelamc@gmail.com | Department of social development: limpopo province | Implementation of Digital tools and assessment in Social Work Practice by Lephalale Social Workers | THEME 6: Main-streaming Digital and Assessment Tools in Social Work Practice | COVID-19 pandemic pushed Social Workers to do more of remote work. That is when the profession adopted for implementation of utilization of main-streaming digitalization and assessment tools in Social Work Practice.This approach has its advantages, strengths, imitations and weaknesses which are beneficial for both Social Workers as practitioners and clients as service users. The article present the results of qualitative study involving 29 Social Workers from The Department of Social Development in Lephalale Municipality; Waterberg District in Limpopo province examining their anticipation for employing online digital tools assessment. Their concern of these digital tools on the work quality, availability of resources as support system and clients data information security. The findings divulge that majority of Social Workers feel ready to incorporate digital technologies into their daily practice. They acknowledge enhanced capability growth in accessing more clients using the digital tools. However, it was emphasized that the difficulties comes with lack of digital skills, no technological resources such as computers, limited network coverage in rural areas and no training on how the digital tools functions. Also clients information and confidentiality can be compromised which is against ethical consideration of the profession since data security could be compromised due to hacking of data or easy sharing of clients' database electronically. The article concludes with recommendations for addressing these challenges including provision of digital devices, skills training on digital tools and clear manner in which clients' data will have security and be protected. These steps are significant in assuring that digital tools assessment are eloquently integrated into Social Work Practice for efficiency and effective implementation while preserving the profession's core values of human relations and ethical practice. Keywords: Resources, Ethical consideration, Digital tool, Technological literacy, Data security, Assessment tool, Social Work |
1150 | |
| 168 | Accepted | Pending Review | Dr. | Mathibela | Faith | mathif@unisa.ac.za | University of south africa | Effects of youth substance misuse on the mother's role: A women’s focus approach | THEME 5: Feminist Perspectives and Environmental Justice | Youth substance misuse has a significant impact on a mother's role, often leading to emotional distress and feelings of isolation. This can hinder her ability to provide love, care, and support. Mothers may experience feelings of loss, anger, and disappointment as they cope with their child’s substance misuse. It is crucial to acknowledge that mothers encountering this situation need adequate support and access to resources to effectively cope with the challenges they face. Substance misuse has placed an extensive challenge on the well-being of families, including the parents of adolescents with SUD (Hennessy, Cristello & Kelly, 2019). Substance misuse is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences (McLellan, 2017). Mothers are expected to cope with their youth misusing substances and continue with their motherly role in running their daily lives, including house chores, caring for other siblings and other family members. Through collective efforts, social workers, other helping professions, families and communities can provide the necessary support and resources to support mothers in continuing their motherly role. This article aimed to describe the effects of youth substance misuse on the mother's role using the lens of a woman-focused approach. Qualitative research was used to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under study using the feminist approach as the point of departure. Ethical considerations were adhered to in the study. The findings of this paper were drawn from mothers' views. The findings highlighted how mothers and their role are affected by youth substance misuse. The mothers also noted how their mental health is affected. |
1151 | |
| 169 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Hlatshwayo | Prudence | hlatshwayoprudence@yahoo.com | University of eswatini | Green Social Work: Promoting Environmental Justice and Community Resilience in Eswatini | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Green Social Work: Promoting Environmental Justice and Community Resilience in Eswatini Prudence Hlatshwayo, Department of Sociology and Social Work, University of Eswatini. Email: hlatshwayoprudence@yahoo.com and Lungile Mabundza, Department of Sociology and Social Work, University of Eswatini. Email:mabundza@yahoo.com Abstract In the face of escalating environmental challenges and social inequalities, the Green Social Work (GSW) framework emerges as a vital paradigm that integrates ecological sustainability with social justice principles. This paper explores the conceptual foundations and practical applications of GSW as a holistic approach to fostering eco-justice and enhancing community well-being. Rooted in ecosocial work theory (Rambaree, 2024) and environmental justice frameworks (Schlosberg, 2020), GSW emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecological health and social equity, advocating for community-driven solutions that address both environmental degradation and social disparities. The framework underscores the importance of participatory approaches, indigenous knowledge, and interdisciplinary collaboration in developing sustainable interventions. It highlights how social workers can act as catalysts for change, promoting environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and social inclusion within vulnerable communities. Case studies from diverse contexts demonstrate how GSW initiatives such as community-led conservation projects, eco-education programs, and policy advocacy can empower marginalized populations, especially those most affected by climate change and resource depletion. Furthermore, the paper critically examines current social work curricula and practice paradigms, proposing the integration of eco-justice principles to prepare practitioners for the complexities of sustainable development. It discusses barriers to implementation and offers strategies for embedding GSW into organizational policies and community practices.Ultimately, the GSW framework offers a transformative lens for social work that aligns ecological sustainability with social justice goals. By fostering eco-justice and community resilience, this approach aims to create equitable, sustainable societies capable of addressing contemporary environmental challenges while promoting well-being for all. Keywords: green social work, eco-justice, community well-being, environmental justice, climate resilience, eco-social work |
1154 | |
| 170 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Muzondo | Edward | edwardmuzondo@gmail.com | Eswatini medical christian university | THE INTERFACE OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND DRUG & SUBSTANCE ABUSE KN SOUTHERN AFRICA: A REHABILITATIVE MODEL | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Agenda 2063 blueprint gives a master plan for transforming Africa into a global powerhouse. Young people are future pillars of the continent and their wellbeing is key for the continent. However, drug and substance abuse is a public health concern that is awfully affecting young people. Substance use and addiction negatively implicates development at personal, community and national level. Due to drug addiction, young people are susceptible to crimes, poor education performance, harmful sexual behaviors, and self-neglect. This study examines the role of social development as a rehabilitative model for drug and substance use disorders among youths in Southern Africa. Using a mixed methods approach, simple random sampling was used to select 130 youths who abuse drugs in Harare. A total of 10 key informants were purposively sampled for the study. In addition, systematic literature review was used to analyse drug addiction intervention programs in Sothern Africa focusing on Eswatini, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The study recognizes that drug and substance abuse is a social development phenomenon not a criminal issue. The study established the need for community-based drug rehabilitation programs that are empowering, sustainable and culturally-relevant to southern Africa. It has been concluded that drug and substance users should be given open access amenities including health, welfare and legal services. It has been recommended that governments should eliminate punitive measures against drug addicts and treat them as people in need of care. The study concludes by designing a decolonised drug rehabilitation model called ARISE model which is guided by principles of social development. Key words: Addiction, Community-based rehabilitation, Drug abuse, Rehabilitative model, Social development, Substance use disorders |
1157 | |
| 171 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Malgas | Thelma | Thelma.Malgas@westerncape.gov.za | Department of social development western cape & university of the western cape | Examining the Legal and Ethical Challenges in the Implementation of the Assessment Tool for the Identification of Adult Victims of Trafficking: A Social Work Perspective | THEME 6: Main-streaming Digital and Assessment Tools in Social Work Practice | Human trafficking remains a complex global issue, intensified by the hidden nature of the crime and difficulties in confirming victim status. In South Africa, the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons (PACOTIP) Act, 2013, mandates that social workers confirm the trafficking status of adults using the Form 3 assessment tool. This responsibility places social workers at the intersection of legal obligation and ethical practice, raising concerns about role appropriateness, procedural justice, and professional integrity. This study investigates the legal and ethical challenges that arise from the implementation of Form 3, adopting a Green Social Work lens that prioritizes human rights, social justice, and the structural factors shaping vulnerability. The research explores how international frameworks and national legislation are translated into practice and examines how policy frameworks operationalize the social worker’s role in confirming trafficking status within the Department of Social Development. Using a qualitative research approach and a descriptive, exploratory, and contextual design, the study draws on document analysis and semi-structured interviews with social workers across eight South African provinces. It aims to uncover the professional experiences and systemic barriers that affect the fair and accurate identification of trafficking victims. Findings will illuminate the tensions between ethical social work principles and rigid legal frameworks, particularly where confirmation processes occur without parallel law enforcement investigations. The study contributes to the discourse on how social workers navigate these complexities and how policy and structural reforms might better align with ethical and justice-based practice. Ultimately, the research advocates for more context-sensitive, ethically grounded approaches that support social workers in carrying out their roles within the legal system while upholding the dignity and rights of trafficking victims. |
1161 | |
| 172 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Ajayi | Elizabeth aanuoluwapo | elizabeth.ajayi@up.ac.za | University of pretoria | Growing Older in Sub‐Saharan Africa: A Critical Rapid Review of Literature on Resilient Ageing | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is experiencing rapid demographic change, with the number of people aged 60 and older expected to increase from 74 million in 2020 to over 235 million by 2050. Crucially, ageing in this region occurs in the context of persistent poverty, inadequate healthcare, increased urbanisation, and deteriorating traditional supports, necessitating the development of novel resilience strategies. This critical rapid review, guided by three questions, synthesised current empirical studies (2022-2025) on resilient ageing in SSA. Searching Web of Science, EBSCOHost, and Google Scholar, 9,414 records were screened using adapted Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, yielding 14 empirical studies that met the inclusion criteria. Employing deductive and inductive reflexive thematic analysis, the study identified five themes (adaptive capacity, social capital, cultural/spiritual resources, economic resources, and institutional/structural intervention) that elucidate resilient ageing in SSA as a dynamic, multisystem process, that entails individual strengths and community assets working together to build adaptive responses within institutional frameworks. While informal networks are essential, the evidence strongly supports the need to increase formalised social safety, such as social grants, better healthcare, pensions, anti-discrimination regulations, and digital inclusion. Although significant research gaps persist, notably the lack of longitudinal data and the underrepresentation of diverse subpopulations, future research should, among others, evaluate resilience-informed interventions to develop effective, sustainable strategies supporting older Africans facing precarity. However, this review highlights social work's vital role in combining formal support with traditional coping techniques to promote sustainable development through evidence-based multisectoral interventions. It directly connections with SDGs 1: showing factors that facilitate financial resilience; 3: reflecting facilitation of better healthcare services; 4: demonstrating the influence of community-based learning and digital literacy; 5: examining gendered resilience strategies that empower older persons; 10: emphasising better inclusive anti-discrimination policies; and 11: highlighting digital inclusion initiatives and community-based support networks. |
1163 | |
| 173 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Mhlauli | Nolusindiso | sindisomhlauli@gmail.com | University of kwazulu-natal | HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR JUSTICE: EKUPHOLENI’S APPROACH TO DIGITAL EQUITY IN SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE | THEME 6: Main-streaming Digital and Assessment Tools in Social Work Practice | HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR JUSTICE: EKUPHOLENI’S APPROACH TO DIGITAL EQUITY IN SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE Background This paper explores the potential of digital technologies to promote social, economic, and environmental justice within South African social work practice. Ekupholeni Mental Health and Trauma Centre services a practice context marked by digital inequality, rural-urban disparities, and frequent electricity load shedding challenges. In this regard, integration of accessible and sustainable technologies has both, practical and ethical imperatives. Theoretical framework The study is grounded in social work’s commitment to human rights, digital equity, and environmental sustainability. It draws on ecological systems and critical digital justice frameworks to interrogate how technology can be locally adapted to serve marginalised communities while upholding the profession’s core values. Methodology A qualitative, exploratory approach was employed, drawing on a review of existing policy frameworks, digital innovations in the South African public and NGO sectors, and emerging practices among frontline social workers. Data were gathered through document analysis, reports by practitioners, and observation of community-based digital interventions. Preliminary findings Initial findings suggest that cost-effective, user-friendly, and offline-capable tools can enhance service delivery in resource-constrained settings. Key innovations include digital assessment platforms, ethical data management systems, and mobile applications for psychosocial support. Emphasis is placed on the need for centralised digital records to reduce fragmentation, and for digital training to be integrated into social work education. The findings point to the transformative potential of technology when ethically aligned with social work values and responsive to local contexts. This paper contributes to a growing body of knowledge advocating for inclusive digital transformation and offers practical strategies for advancing justice and sustainability through technology-integrated social work. Keywords: Digital technology, justice, equity, social work practice and ecological systems theory |
1165 | |
| 174 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Budeli | Jimmy | Jimmy.Budeli@univen.ac.za | University of venda | Challenges Faced by Fieldwork Coordinators during Students’ Practical | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Abstract Fieldwork placement is a critical component of every Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) curriculum. Before students begin their placements, university fieldwork coordinators play a vital role in arranging fieldwork experiences and overseeing those placements once students have resumed their practical work. This qualitative study seeks to explore and describe the challenges faced by fieldwork coordinators while students are in fieldwork practice placements. The study's data were collected through semi-structured interviews with two fieldwork coordinators from the University of Venda and the University of Limpopo. The study found a lack of placement agencies for students’ fieldwork. It also found that students sometimes disappeared during fieldwork, while others submitted fake reports. Indemnity was reported as another challenge. Coordinators noted that students expressed dissatisfaction with placement arrangements, particularly regarding the assignment of agencies and supervisors. Additionally, insufficient work exposure and the absenteeism of supervisors at the agency were identified as significant challenges. The study revealed that the monitoring and support of students during fieldwork placements are compromised, as not all students receive visits for support. This leaves some feeling stranded and helpless. The research findings from this project suggest that both universities establish a dedicated fieldwork component within the social work department. This component should be supported by designated staff members whose primary responsibilities pertain to fieldwork-related matters. When possible, they should be exempted from teaching or assigned fewer theory classes. The researcher believes that this will provide fieldwork coordinators and all academics involved in the fieldwork component with sufficient time to effectively execute plans related to the administration of fieldwork. Key Words: Challenge, Social Work, Fieldwork Coordinators, Fieldwork |
1168 | |
| 175 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Ms. | Langa | Oniccah mokholoana | LangaOK@dsd.limpopo.gov.za | Mahwelereng social development | Social work and the achievement of SDGs in Mahwelereng | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Social dialogue is critical to the achievement of sustainable development goals, especially in a country facing complex social, economic and environmental challenges like South Africa. However, adversarial cultures and fragmented collaboration continue to hinder progress. Social work, situated at the intersection of government, civil society and communities, offers a unique platform to promote inclusive engagement, equity and resilience. This abstract explores how institutional capacity, policy reform, education and active citizen participation can transform social dialogue from conflict to collaboration. It highlights the urgency of addressing issues such as youth unemployment, education quality, the impact of state grants and labour market dualism. Through a developmental and rights-based lens, the role of social workers in fostering trust, promoting talent mobility and ensuring policy responsiveness is examined. The abstract emphasizes civil society’s role in holding leadership accountable and the need for coordinated stakeholder action. It calls for a reinvigorated vision of shared governance underpinned by ethical leadership, social innovation and professional integrity. This contribution aligns with the conference’s theme by reinforcing the importance of peacebuilding, justice and sustainable development through social work practice and advocacy. |
1171 | |
| 177 | Rejected | Pending Review | Dr. | Rammile | Nthabeleng | nthabelengrammile@sun.ac.za | Stellengbosch university | Personal Branding for University Graduates: A Literature Review | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Increasing competition in the world of work continues to heighten the importance of personal branding for graduates and their career development. Personal branding initially emerged as a marketing concept and evolved over time to become a tool that graduates can now use as a strategy for the presentation of skills, identity, values and career goals. This literature review observes the relationship between personal branding and graduate employability. Emerging themes over the past decade are observed. Specifically: the definition and evolution of personal branding, its connection to employability outcomes, the influence of digital presence, the role of authenticity and self-concept, institutional support, and the critiques surrounding personal branding as an ideological construct. A key challenge that remains is one of ensuring that introverted and marginalised graduates are not forced to conform to extroverted norms. While Universities are slowly acknowledging the role of personal branding, its integration into curricula and career services remains a challenge. It is therefore encouraged that future research needs to focus on coming up with inclusive, ethical, and authentic strategies. Such strategies should consider psychological and social impact while assisting graduates to package their personal brands successfully. | 1173 | |
| 178 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Matosi | Edmore | matosiedmore@gmail.com | Department of social development | THE EFFECTS OF BULLYING ON HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | THE EFFECTS OF BULLYING ON HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS Mr Matosi E Limpopo Department of Social Development, Moroke Office, South Africa matosiedmore@gmail.com 0739834004 Abstract Background Bullying is a big problem amongst high school learners. It is important to have the knowledge of the effects of bullying on high school learners in order to give support and counselling to the victims of bullying so that they can perform well academically and prevent long term effects of bullying. If victims of bullying do not get support and counselling, dire effects like school drop-out, fear, anxiety and suicide, amongst other may occur. Methodology Literature review was used to gather information on the effects of bullying on high school learners. The literature reviewed include books and journals and Acts which deals with children. Results Bullying causes anxiety, depression, sadness, loneliness, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, loss of interest on activities and poor academic performance. Conclusion/Recommendations It is recommended that high school learners who are victims of bullying must be provided with support and counselling in order to deal with anxiety, depression, sadness, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, loss of interest on activities and poor academic performance. It is also important to understand each individual victim of bullying as the effects thereof might vary from victim to victim. Keywords Bullying, support, counselling, victim. |
1174 | |
| 179 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Chikoko | Witness | wchikoko@gmail.com | Department of social work, university of zimbabwe | Resilience strategies of Grandparent Headed Households (GHHs) in the face of climate change in rural Zimbabwe: A case of ward 14, Bikita district | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | There is dearth of academic studies on the resilience strategies of Grandparent Headed Households (GHHs) of ward 14 Bikita district, Zimbabwe in the face of climate change. A qualitative explanatory case study research design generated data for the study. Resilience Theory provides the theoretical underpinning of the study. Evidence suggests that a host of factors enhanced the resilience of GHH of ward 14, Bikita district, Zimbabwe in the wake of climate change. These included personality related such as self-esteem, external factors such as the role of non-governmental agencies. The ideological factors such as the role of church also facilitated the resilience of GHHs of ward 14, Bikita district, Zimbabwe. The presentation concludes by urging the Department of Social Development and other key stakeholders for more investments towards social protection among GHHs in rural Zimbabwe. Key words: Resilience, Rural Areas, Grandparents, Households. |
1175 | |
| 180 | Accepted | Pending Review | Mr. | Phoswa | Sthembiso | zulanaye@gmail.com | University of kwazulu-natal | Integrating Afrocentric Epistemologies in Trauma Care: Community-Based Responses to Climate Disasters in South Africa | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | On a global level, climate change represents one of the most pressing crises of modern times, resulting in internal and external displacement, destruction of infrastructure and livelihoods, and loss of life. There are urgent calls in social work and psychology to adopt prevention, mitigation, and response strategies that address the climate crisis and promote ecosocial justice. This chapter draws on the Afrocentric paradigm as a guiding theoretical framework to examine trauma-informed interventions led by The Ma’at Institute, located at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Empirical data were collected through community facilitator process recordings, reflective journals, and voices of community participants engaged in group-based interventions. The Ma’at Institute pioneers African-centred scholarship in community psychosocial services, offering an alternative to dominant Western paradigms. Central to the Afrocentric paradigm are epistemologies that value the individual as a whole person, emphasize collective identity, interconnectedness among people (living and non-living), and human relationships with all other species, grounded in egalitarianism, respect, and reciprocity. Co-authored by two academics and four practitioners from the Ma’at Institute, the chapter highlights culturally grounded approaches that integrate lived experiences and African epistemologies to strengthen disaster responses and support trauma debriefing and healing. Key themes include: (1) Afrocentric community entry strategies; (2) culturally sensitive negotiation of gender stereotypes and inclusion; (3) use of indigenous languages to promote epistemic justice; (4) Afrocentric group formation using singing and dancing for acceptance; (5) age-appropriate, issue-based interventions for children; and (6) strengths-based and spiritual approaches to trauma healing. The chapter emphasizes the power of indigenous language and cultural practices to evoke emotional responses that inspire hope and resilience, even amid suffering. Recommendations are made for policy, education, and future research to enhance culturally relevant practice in social work and psychology. Keywords: Afrocentric approaches, Afrocentric trauma-informed care, flood disasters, strengths-based, trauma-care |
1177 | |
| 181 | Rejected | Pending Review | Ms. | Keyser | San-marié | sk24161454@gmail.com | Nwu potchefstrrom | Guidelines for implementing the National Institute for Child Health development protocol when assessing children with autism spectrum disorder. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | In current forensic assessments, there are no guidelines that specifically address the unique needs of autistic children. Due to the challenges associated with communicating with these children, forensic assessors find it difficult to evaluate them accurately. This often results in the failure to prosecute perpetrators. Guidelines would provide autistic children with an opportunity to receive proper forensic assessments in a manner sensitive to their specific needs. These guidelines can also be implemented during care and contact assessments, voice of the child assessments, and socio-emotional assessments involving autistic children. This creates opportunities for new interventions targeting the autism community from a social worker’s perspective. When professionals make small adjustments and demonstrate attentiveness to the specific needs of autistic children, they create a safe environment where these children can disclose information about circumstances that may harm their well-being. In this presentation, I will focus on the considerations for the guidelines, as well as the scientific models and information obtained from the Lancet document to inform the guidelines. Outline of presentation slides. 1. Introduction • Background • Importance of accurate and sensitive assessments • Issue: lack of guidelines for autistic children 2. The Problem • Communication and behavioural characteristics of autistic children • Challenges forensic assessors face (e.g., misinterpretation, limited disclosure) • Consequences: underreporting, misjudgment, failure to prosecute perpetrators 3. The Need for Guidelines • Forensic protocol’s shortcommings • How tailored guidelines could: - Improve communication and understanding - Ensure fair and sensitive assessment processes - Support justice for autistic children 4. Broader Application of Guidelines • Use in other assessment types: • Importance of consistency across systems 5. Implications for Social Work Practice • Role of social workers in implementing inclusive, neurodiverse-informed practices • Small adjustments = big impact • Potential for new interventions and advocacy 6. Conclusion • lack of guidelines = missed justice and protection • Call to action: develop and adopt guidelines, train assessors • Final thought: Inclusion is protection |
1179 | |
| 182 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Sny | Melicia | melicialovekeeshia@gmail.com | Nanterre university/trauma center for survivors of violence and torture | Greening child justice: Exploring the impact of outdoor-education programs on the holistic wellbeing of children in conflict with the law | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Social workers play a crucial role in supporting children within the justice system. While South Africa’s Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 promotes restorative justice, diversion programs continue to face challenges—most notably low completion rates and rising youth crime. This study explores outdoor education programs as innovative, ecological interventions for children in conflict with the law, assessing their influence on behavior, attitudes, and personal development. Drawing on Environmental Social Work—an evolution of the ecological approach that emphasizes both human and environmental well-being—this study highlights the potential for dual-impact interventions. Grounded in constructivism and informed by Dewey’s experiential learning theory, it critically examines the experiences of former child offenders, social workers, and outdoor educators engaged in a nature-based diversion program. Findings show outdoor programs foster pro-social behavior, resilience, and community belonging—key goals in youth rehabilitation. Yet, despite these benefits, a disconnect remains between program outcomes and the broader goals of environmental justice. Social workers seldom assess the role of environmental degradation in shaping youth behavior or recognize crimes against nature (e.g., arson, poaching) as part of the larger climate crisis. Participants also demonstrated limited ecological awareness post-program, signaling a gap in environmental consciousness within restorative interventions. This study argues for an integrated model where environmental and social justice are not treated separately but are seen as mutually reinforcing. Outdoor diversion programs should evolve into eco-social interventions—addressing systemic drivers of youth crime while building ecological awareness. Given the disproportionate impact of climate change on youth, embedding Green Social Work into curricula, policies, and practice is essential. Social workers are uniquely positioned to foster youth development through nature-based interventions that restore both individuals and ecosystems. |
1181 | |
| 183 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Dr. | Mtiya-thimla | Gcotyiswa | mtiyagcotyiswa5@gmail.com | North west university ,faculty of health sciences | A social work trauma intervention for elder abuse in South Africa | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | 1182 | ||
| 184 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Dr. | Mtiya-thimla | Gcotyiswa | mtiyagcotyiswa5@gmail.com | North west university ,faculty of health sciences | A social work trauma intervention for elder abuse in South Africa | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | 1183 | ||
| 185 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Dr. | Mtiya-thimla | Gcotyiswa | mtiyagcotyiswa5@gmail.com | North west university | A social work trauma intervention for elder abuse in South Africa | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | 1184 | ||
| 186 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Mtiya-thimla | Gcotyiswa | mtiyagcotyiswa5@gmail.com | North west university | A social work trauma intervention for elder abuse in South Africa | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Elder abuse is a pervasive global issue, yet it is under-recognized and under-reported. This underscores the urgent need for enhanced training and resources within social work education. The presentation outlines a targeted social work trauma intervention to inform and enrich gerontology curricula. Grounded in intervention research and supported by qualitative methodology, the intervention is based on an extensive literature review and engagement with community members, social workers and victims of elder abuse. Thematic analysis of collected data identified key elements, emphasising cultural competency in addressing elder abuse. Social work interventions should focus on the person in their life space. | 1185 |