Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Orphanhood is a major consequence of the AIDS pandemic in South Africa. Most children who are living as AIDS orphans in township communities experience recurrent psychological trauma, a lack of care and support, and much suffering. Aim: The development of a conceptual framework upon which the “Steps of Progression” strategies were developed for primary health care nurses, social workers, and psychologists to improve care and support to children living as AIDS orphans in township communities in Gqeberha, South Africa. Methods: This conceptual frame-work was developed using the Survey List of Dickoff, James and Weidenbach. Data to develop this conceptual framework was collected from an in-depth literature search, to determine the legislative and policy frameworks influencing the South African Government’s policies concerning these vulnerable children, and from in-depth interviews with primary health care professional nurses (n = 10), social workers (n = 8) and psychologists (n = 6) who provide care and support to these children. Results: The results from the in-depth literature review and empirical data enabled the development of this conceptual framework. The four aspects of the procedure part of this conceptual framework were identified as: strengthening the existing legislative and policy frameworks in which the primary health care nurses, social workers, and psychologists practice; enhancing the resilience of these professionals; enabling interdisciplinary collaboration; and the facilitation of an empowering work environment. These became the essence of the” Steps of Progression” strategies which were subsequently developed. Conclusions: This conceptual framework enabled the development of the ‘steps of progression strategies’ which could improve care and support to these vulnerable children.

Keywords: Development, conceptual framework, strategies, care, support, AIDS orphans, townships, South Africa