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16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024 (3)

16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024 (3)

by | Dec 6, 2024 | Community and Engagement, Division of Registered Counsellors and Psychometrists (RCP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar

Global and Local Context of Gender-Based Violence


By Mrs Rekha Kangokar and Ms Shaazia Patel – Executive committee members of RCP

The United Nations describes Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as “Any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivations of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life” (WHO, 2024).
In South Africa, where GBV is described as the “second pandemic” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the government has introduced legislative reforms to protect women through The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill, enacted in May 2024, which aims to ensure safety for women and children (SONA, 2024). Despite these efforts, GBV remains alarmingly high, with reports indicating over 42,780 rape cases in 2022-2023 alone (Commission for Gender Equality, 2024).
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that ending violence against women is achievable if action is taken collectively (WHO, 2024). The World Health Organisation (WHO) asserts that “Ending violence against women is possible, but only if we act together, now.” They are now doing 16 days of activism against gender-based violence from November 25 to December 10, 2024 (WHO, 2024).. WHO’s ongoing “16 Days of Activism” campaign highlights that GBV is a global issue, exacerbated in areas of displacement and conflict. Survivors face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, particularly mental health support, due to stigma and patriarchal norms (WHO, 2024)..
Recently, there has been a phenomenal increase in advocacy and awareness for GBV, with advocates bringing cases to light through film. In October 2024, Netflix released a Hindi film – Do Patti which explores the pervasive issue of GBV through the lens of twin sisters, Saumya and Shailee. The film showcases the complex familial, psychological, and emotional factors that impact and influence Saumya and those closest to her. Saumya’s story reflects the experiences of countless women who endure abuse in silence, trapped by societal expectations and personal guilt. The film highlights how deeply trauma can impact individuals, particularly within the context of domestic abuse, cultural pressures and patriarchal dominance. If it were not for one woman in law enforcement, Saumya would have possibly suffered the same fate as her victimised mother.
The summary formulation presented below is for educational purposes and serves to highlight key aspects that are common in cases of GBV against women. This article and its contents do not serve as a medical or professional mental health opinion or diagnosis. If you or anyone you know might be experiencing any of the points below, we strongly urge you to reach out for support via the helplines and contact centres found at the end of this article.
A Summarised Formulation Employing a Person-centred Methodology for Saumya Pundir’s Character in Do Patti (2024):

Sources of Trauma Experienced by Saumya
• Domestic Abuse
• Family Trauma
• Psychological Impact
• Post-Traumatic Stress
• Internal Conflicts

Person-centred Interventions – This approach is especially relevant for trauma survivors, who are grappling with emotional wounds and self-blame. The goal is to create a safe therapeutic environment, allowing one to process her feelings and heal.
To provide Saumya with therapeutic support, a trained and qualified psychologist would likely focus on:
• Creating a supportive environment
• Building self-compassion
• Reconnecting the victim with her strengths
• Gradual trauma processing

By considering the above case in the South African context, GBV infiltrates the social, political and economic structures within a patriarchal society, and power inequalities which include gender, sexuality and race. Patel et al. (2020) report that the most affected by violence and inequalities in South Africa are women and children (as cited in Mazana, 2022), and it is believed that while exact statistics are lacking on the rate of sexual based GBV in South Africa, there is certainty that a woman is killed every 3 hours in our country (Wilkinson, 2020). The role of law enforcement and strong legislation is another core theme of the film and this is a crucial element to combating GBV and facilitating empowerment and support to affected individuals. Various Bills passed by the government are implemented to protect against domestic abuse, trauma, and mental health. The National Strategic Plan on GBV includes extensive legal reforms, psychological support, and the establishment of Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs), which provide comprehensive services to survivors, from medical care to legal assistance. There are currently 63 centres across the country (SONA, 2024).

Support Services and Interventions
South Africa has implemented various measures to support GBV survivors:
• Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) offer holistic services, including medical exams, legal support, and counselling. https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_speech/THUTHUZELA%20Care%
20Centres.pdf
• TEARS foundation – TEARS believes that responding to sexual violence in our society and holding perpetrators to account starts with supporting survivors in ways that are respectful of their dignity, healing, and choices. HELPLINE: 08000TEARS | 0800 083 277
• The Warrior Project aims to address Violence based on gender and Domestic Violence by providing information and access to help.
• People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) – is a South African, feminist, women’s rights organisation established in the 90’s. POWA provide free counselling, sheltering, skills development opportunities, legal services, sector capacity building and  strengthening as well as public awareness and education to assist abused women. POWA also engages in advocacy to ensure the realisation of women’s rights and thereby improve women’s quality of life.
• She Conquers – is a three-year national campaign with an aim to improve the lives of adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. https://sheconquerssa.co.za/sexual-gender-based-violence/
• WHO also provides training for healthcare providers on managing cases of rape and intimate partner violence, especially in crisis settings.
• Gender-Based Violence resource guide – https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/images/GBV%20_booklet.pdf
• SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) and Lifeline provide counselling services, helping survivors access mental health care.

A recent article by Mail and Guardian, titled Gender-based violence affects one in three women regardless of income group, reports that shelters and homes are no longer safe havens for women (Comins, 2024). Women mention that the only “safe space” they are lucky to have is their workplace (Comins, 2024). The importance of showcasing this film also speaks to the grave extent of GBV across the globe and appropriate depictions such as films and social media may become tools of change and empowerment. Integrating movies such as Do Patti in articles brings awareness by not only shedding light on the employed and unemployed individual suffering but also highlighting the urgent need for systemic change and mental health support for GBV survivors worldwide.

References:
Comins, L. (2024) Gender-based violence affects one in three women regardless of income group. Mail&Guardian. Retrieved from https://mg.co.za/news/2024-08-28-gender-based-violence-affects-one-in-three-women-regardless-of-income-group/
Mazana, N. N. (2022). Bayasibulala:# AmINext? an analysis of Instagram as a tool for activism against Sexual Gender-Based Violence in South Africa. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/37515
Wilkinson, K. (2020). Five facts about femicide in South Africa. News24. Retrieved from: https://www.news24.com/news24/5-facts-about-femicide-in-south-africa-20190905
https://www.stateofthenation.gov.za/priorities/making-communities-safer/gender-based-violence#:~:text=New%20Legislation%20to%20fight%20GBV,law%20on%2024%20May%202024
https://www.who.int/campaigns/16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence/2024
https://www.parliament.gov.za/storage/app/media/OISD/Reports/Commission_for_Gender_Equality/2024/01-08-2024/GBV_Index_Report.pdf
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women

Click Here To Download The Article
16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024 (3)

16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024

by | Dec 2, 2024 | Community and Engagement, Decolonising Psychology (DP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar

16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children

Many hoped that the lifting of apartheid would herald a better future for the majority of women in South Africa, easing their struggles and opening pathways to equality. Unfortunately, this has not been the case. Many women remain excluded from the social, political and economic mainstream, grappling daily with the persistent threat of violence and abuse. The government, once a symbol of liberation, has often fallen short in addressing their oppression.

As South Africa embarks on its annual campaign against violence towards women and children, we must confront the shadows and vestiges of our nation’s history. This painful legacy has profoundly shaped gender dynamics in contemporary South Africa and continues to fuel the cycles of violence that plague our society.

South Africa continues to grapple with unacceptably high levels of violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, intimate partner aggression, femicide, workplace harassment, and digital abuse. These forms of violence are compounded by the pervasive injustices and exclusions inherent to systemic inequality. To address this, we must necessarily and actively challenge dominant colonial, gendered, and violent discourses while fostering counter-narratives that amplify the voices and actions of survivors and their communities, enabling resistance, agency, solidarity, and healing, while supporting multi-pronged anti-violence initiatives that include inter-sectoral collaboration, community-based involvement, and the privileging of knowledge systems and practices deemed meaningful and appropriate by communities themselves. It is through such comprehensive and inclusive efforts that we can hope to dismantle the violence that perpetuates harm and work towards sustainable, transformative change. It is equally vital for us in South Africa to forge partnerships and draw lessons from other critical and liberatory movements across the continent and globally in the fight against gender-based violence. Simultaneously, we call for genuine socio-economic liberation that disrupts the entrenched status quo, where women and children disproportionately bear the brunt of poverty, inequality, and multiple intersecting disparities.

During the 16 Days of Activism, we are reminded that countless institutions and organisations dedicated to supporting women and children in distress are shutting their doors due to dwindling funding. These organisations continue to serve communities tirelessly, often without government support, remaining passionate advocates for change while facing immense financial challenges. It is therefore imperative that we support and pay tribute to these organisations that strive to serve women and girls and support their liberation from violence, oppression, and exploitation.

One such organisation is The Cradle of Hope in the West of Krugersdorp. For 18 years, this independent social upliftment and community development organisation, with its core focus on assisting women and children, has been a sanctuary and support hub for destitute, vulnerable, and abused women – many of whom are survivors of domestic violence, sexual trauma, or human trafficking. The Cradle of Hope provides a safe refuge for up to 30 women and their children, who come from all corners of South Africa. Many arrive in the dead of night, often with little more than the clothes on their backs, bearing physical and emotional scars, fearful and traumatised, where they are met with compassion, support, safety and care. With 15 active programmes, The Cradle of Hope directly impacts the lives of more than 2 000 marginalised adults and children every day, offering essential assistance to those in desperate need. More than just a shelter, it is a space of compassion, love, kindness, and care, dedicated to rebuilding lives and fostering futures rooted in healing and agency.

To learn more about The Cradle of Hope and explore ways to support their vital work, please visit their website at www.thecradleofhope.org, call their offices at 076 262 0452, or email them at information@thecradleofhope.org.

BE THE DIFFERENCE!

– PsySSA Decolonising Psychology Division
16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024 (3)

16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children – 25 November-10 December 2024

by | Dec 2, 2024 | Community and Engagement, Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar, Trauma and Violence Division (TVD)

All it takes

By Leonie Vorster, Trauma and Violence Division Executive Committee Member

If you talk to just three children and three women in South Africa, you are highly likely, statistically speaking, to come face-to-face with gender-based violence (GBV). Long after the six conversations, two survivors and those close to them will be living with the impact of GBV, while the perpetrators reoffend, unchallenged and unchanged.

GBV (violence perpetrated against any person based on their gender) can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, obsessive behaviour, compulsions, anger, antisocial behaviour, anxiety, stress, depression, dissociation, self-injury, body issues, gastro-intestinal issues, somatic complaints, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, and a host of serious physical and psychological disorders (Vorster, 2021).

Addressing the scourge of GBV does not lie with the one in three survivors, though they are a stark, statistical reminder that we are failing to tackle GBV. Health professionals are justified in supporting GBV survivors and, understandably, that is where the focus has been. However, helping the perpetrators of GBV is the best way to prevent GBV, and we have failed at this (Vorster, 2021).

Working with perpetrators of violence against women and children can be challenging, and prevention is complex. Perpetrators often have gender role strain issues, resorting to violence to cope with feelings of inadequacy (Baugher, 2015). Furthermore, violence against women and violence against children intersect, emphasising the need for collaborative efforts to address both (UNICEF, 2024). The definition and acceptability of what constitutes GBV also varies significantly across diverse cultures and contexts, underscoring the importance of culturally sensitive approaches in research, intervention, and prevention programmes (Perrin et al., 2019). Nonetheless, exposure to various forms of violence has adverse health outcomes for victims, regardless of cultural context (Rivara et al., 2019).

Interventions based on “naming and shaming” perpetrators may not be effective in reducing violence or enhancing safety for women and children. Arguably, isolating perpetrators (as opposed to reintegrating them) can reinforce negative self-perceptions and perpetuate violent behaviour. In contrast, approaches that focus on holding perpetrators accountable in a way that encourages rehabilitation and offers alternative, non-violent models of behaviour are more promising when it comes to prevention (Camp, 2019).

What will it take to create a world free from violence towards women and children?

Effective prevention requires multi-sectoral approaches, community involvement, and long-term strategies; addressing underlying social drivers like gender inequality, harmful societal norms, and patriarchal values; psychological health interventions, parenting programmes for perpetrators, and reducing reoffending; and policy changes, systemic thinking, and system-wide interventions (Fernández-Conde et al., 2024).

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence annual international campaign kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. This year’s campaign theme is UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls. The campaign calls on citizens to show how much they care about ending violence against women and girls by sharing the actions they are taking to create a world free from violence towards women. This year’s campaign also calls on governments worldwide to share how they are investing in gender-based violence prevention.

There is #NoExcuse.

World AIDS Day – 1 December 2024

World AIDS Day – 1 December 2024

by | Dec 1, 2024 | Division for Research and Methodology (DRM), Events and Announcements, Health Psychology (HP), Mental Health Advocacy, Mental Health Calendar, Psychology Events, Psychology in Public Service (PiPS)

DRM SPECIAL EDITION PODCAST
IN OBSERVANCE OF WORLD AIDS DAY 2024

“Take the rights path: My health, my right!”

This special edition of the DRM podcast, hosted by Associate Professor Bronwyne Coetzee of Stellenbosch University, in partnership with the Psychological Society of South Africa’s Division for Research and Methodology, commemorates World AIDS Day 2024. The discussion emphasises this year’s theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!” and the critical role of human rights in ending HIV. In this podcast Prof Coetzee is joined by Prof. Stephan Rabie an Associate Professor and Chief Research Officer in the HIV Mental Health Research Unit in the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at the University of Cape Town, an expert in mental health and HIV. In the podcast they discuss the intersection of HIV care and mental health, discussing the necessity of integrated support systems and Prof Rabie’s groundbreaking upcoming programme of work on suicide prevention among adults living with HIV in South Africa. As we observe World AIDS Day 2024, it’s important to remember and recognise that protecting everyone’s health is intrinsically linked to protecting everyone’s rights.

Useful resources: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-aids-day/2024
Calls to action: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-aids-day/2024/calls-to-action

Prof Stephan Rabie in conversation with Prof Bronwynè Coetzee

Stephan Rabie is an Associate Professor and Chief Research Officer in the HIV Mental Health Research Unit in the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at the University of Cape Town. The majority of his research has been devoted to developing and implementing mental health interventions in diverse settings. His research focuses on the intersection of mental illness and chronic conditions, with specific focus on HIV and behavioural adherence. He has provided academic oversight and managed several interventions focusing on HIV, substance use, sexual trauma, sexual and reproductive health, and community-based healthcare. He currently holds an Emerging Global Leader Award from the Fogarty International Center, focusing on the development of a suicide prevention intervention among people with HIV in South Africa.

Click Here To Listen To The DRM Podcast on World AIDS Day

HPD Division

PiPS Division

On this day we pledge to reaffirm that health is not a privilege, but rather is a fundamental human right. We call for the uncompromising commitment to ensuring that everyone regardless of demographic identity has access to the care, treatment and support that they not only deserve but are entitled to as a right enshrined within the constitution of South Africa.
HIV/AIDS continues to affect millions around the world; however, it is only through the dismantling of the stigma which too often hinders progress, that we will be able to offer the respect for their autonomy; to ensure their equitable access to prevention and treatment that they require. On this day, we reflect that our health is a right, rather than a luxury. The access to healthcare, education, and support systems are crucial for breaking the cycle of transmission and promoting a world where people living with HIV can thrive.
As we honour those affected by HIV, let us commit to fostering a society where everyone can walk the path of health with dignity, security, and the freedom to make their own choices.

Adapting to AI: What Psychologists Need to Know for the Future

Adapting to AI: What Psychologists Need to Know for the Future

by | Nov 27, 2024 | Artificial Intelligence Division (AID)

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries worldwide, psychology finds itself at a turning point. AI is no longer a distant future—it’s already here, and it’s expanding rapidly. But for psychologists, the question is not if AI will play a role in their work, but how they will respond. Will AI become an ally in enhancing our practice, or will we resist it out of fear, skepticism, or uncertainty?

To understand the different ways psychologists might approach this transformation, let’s explore the experiences of three professionals, each facing AI from a unique perspective. Through their stories, we can examine the potential for growth, the risks of inaction, and the ethical considerations that must guide us forward.

1. The Early Adopter: Fully Embracing AI

Dr. Zanele has fully integrated AI into her practice. She uses AI-powered tools to streamline administrative tasks, analyze behavioral data, and assist with diagnostics. AI allows her to focus more on providing personalized care to clients while automating routine tasks.

While embracing AI, Dr. Zanele ensures that ethical guidelines are followed. She prioritizes transparency, informed consent, and client privacy. By using AI responsibly, she enhances her practice, making it more efficient and better equipped to handle the increasing demand for mental health services.

Questions for Dr. Zanele to Consider:

  • How can I ensure that the AI tools I use are transparent and comply with privacy standards?
  • What steps can I take to ensure the AI tools I use do not perpetuate bias or harm in the therapeutic process?
  • How can I balance AI’s capabilities with the human touch that remains essential to therapy?

Dr. Zanele sees AI as a tool to expand her capacity, improve outcomes, and stay at the forefront of mental health innovation.

2. The Skeptic: Sticking to Tradition

Dr. Sipho is skeptical about AI’s role in psychology. He believes it’s just a passing trend, much like previous technological shifts that didn’t stick. His practice continues as it always has—focusing on in-person consultations, paper records, and traditional assessments.

While Dr. Sipho is content with his established methods, the world around him is changing. AI offers new opportunities to improve diagnostic accuracy, provide personalized treatment, and expand access to services. If Dr. Sipho continues to resist AI, he risks missing out on valuable tools that could enhance his practice and client care.

Questions for Dr. Sipho to Consider:

  • What might I miss by resisting AI, especially in terms of improving diagnostic accuracy and client engagement?
  • How might client expectations change as AI tools become more integrated into mental health services?
  • How can I remain relevant in a changing field that increasingly embraces AI?

By sticking with the status quo, Dr. Sipho may find himself at a disadvantage, missing out on innovations that could improve his practice.

3. The Cautious Adopter: Curious but Hesitant

Dr. Thandi is intrigued by AI but unsure how to begin integrating it into her practice. She is curious about its potential to improve her work but is overwhelmed by the complexity and the fear of making mistakes. Dr. Thandi has explored AI through articles and online courses, but she hesitates to fully dive in.

Dr. Thandi is not alone in feeling uncertain. Many psychologists share her concerns about adopting AI. However, by taking a cautious yet proactive approach, Dr. Thandi can gradually integrate AI into her practice, ensuring that she remains at the forefront of innovation while maintaining the human connection essential to therapy.

Questions for Dr. Thandi to Consider:

  • How can I take the first steps toward integrating AI in a manageable way?
  • What risks do I face if I let my uncertainty prevent me from adapting to this shift?
  • How can I use AI tools without compromising the human-centered approach to therapy?

By embracing AI in a measured way, Dr. Thandi can ensure that she remains adaptable and ready to take advantage of the growth opportunities AI presents.

The Ethical Implications: Safe Use of AI Tools

For all three psychologists, the ethical implications of using AI are paramount. In South Africa, where access to mental health care is limited in many areas, AI offers the potential to extend services to underserved populations. However, AI must be used ethically—ensuring client privacy, informed consent, and transparency.

Ethical guidelines for AI in psychology should focus on:

  • Privacy and confidentiality: Ensuring AI tools protect sensitive data and adhere to privacy regulations.
  • Informed consent: Clients must be fully aware of how AI tools will be used in their treatment.
  • Bias and fairness: AI systems must be designed and tested to avoid reinforcing existing biases.
  • Human oversight: AI should assist, not replace, the human connection central to therapy.

The Road Ahead: Adapting to Change

AI is here to stay, and those in the psychology profession must decide how they will respond. Whether you are an early adopter, a skeptic, or a cautious adopter, the key question is how you will engage with this technological shift.

  • If you embrace AI, you open up new opportunities for growth, better outcomes, and improved access to services.
  • If you resist AI, you risk falling behind in a field that is rapidly evolving.
  • If you hesitate, you may find yourself scrambling to catch up with others who have already adapted.

By considering the ethical use of AI and gradually incorporating it into your practice, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your practice remains relevant, efficient, and impactful in a changing world.

What are your thoughts on AI in psychology? How are you approaching this shift? Let’s continue the conversation.

#PsySSA #AIandPsychology #EthicalAI #MentalHealth #ArtificialIntelligence #SouthAfrica #PsychologyInTheFuture