Magadla-Mateyise, Afika Fikiswa
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A Review of Official Documents and Literature on the Forgotten Victims of Parental Incarceration in South Africa Magadla-Mateyise, Afika Fikiswa; Zenzile, Enoch
Research in Social Sciences and Technology Vol 9 No 3 (2024): Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Research in Social Sciences and Technology- OpenED Network

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46303/ressat.2024.53

Abstract

This article is a literature synthesis of the living conditions of black children after their parent's imprisonment. In Africa, the prison population currently stands at 1,194,497, while in South Africa, 147,922 people were being held in correctional facilities as of January 2021. Parental incarceration has affected all children, regardless of race, age, or cultural background. An increasing amount of research indicates that children with incarcerated parents are prone to internalized behaviors such as depression, anxiety, and withdrawal, as well as externalized behaviors including criminality and substance use. They may also experience cognitive delays, academic struggles, and insecure attachments in their relationships with both their imprisoned parents and primary caregivers. The term "caregiver" denotes the individual who assumes the role of the child's main caregiver while the parents are incarcerated. It is important to note that the literature focusing on child-headed households in South African informal settlements and townships may be limited. This paper is a narrative synthesis of the literature review and uses secondary sources.
Exploration of the Experiences of Lesotho Sleep in Domestic Workers in a Semi-Urban Settlement in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa Ngcobo, Silindile; Magadla-Mateyise, Afika Fikiswa
Research in Social Sciences and Technology Vol 10 No 1 (2025): Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Research in Social Sciences and Technology- OpenED Network

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46303/ressat.2025.10

Abstract

This study, conducted through a combination of interviews, surveys, and direct observations, examines the exploitation of sleep-in domestic workers from Lesotho who work in South African households. Based on data collected from 15 participants, the research brings to light the difficult living conditions these workers face, including a lack of privacy and inadequate working environments. The study identifies several key issues, such as the absence of written contracts, leaving workers susceptible to exploitation, unpaid overtime, and widespread non-compliance with minimum wage laws. The research shows that domestic workers encounter major obstacles in getting necessary healthcare and support services, which worsens their already unstable situation. The study also emphasizes the lack of chances for training and skills improvement, which hampers the workers' ability to enhance their lives and find better job opportunities. Many of these domestic workers are the main providers for their families and single parents, making the importance of fair pay and good working conditions even more crucial. The study highlights the significance of fair pay and good working conditions, stressing the urgent need for these rights and immediate policy interventions to be upheld. The research aims to bring attention to the systemic exploitation faced by this vulnerable group and advocate for essential reforms to protect their rights and improve their living and working conditions. Overall, the study emphasizes the pressing need for policy interventions and support mechanisms to empower domestic workers and enhance their quality of life in South Africa.