Understanding the mental health disorders among males who have been traditionally circumcised
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15 September 2021Understanding the intersections between mental health wellbeing, HIV and adolescent pregnancy
The study is being undertaken in selected health facilities in Mpumalanga and the Western Cape.
Project period
01 January 2019 – 31 December 2021
Project Summary
The overall aim of this research is to explore the understandings and experiences of pregnant and post-partum adolescents aged 15-19 in selected facilities in Mpumalanga and the Western Cape with regards to mental health wellbeing and HIV. It also seeks to understand the perspectives of those in the adolescents’ social environment. Ultimately it aims to develop relevant intervention(s) to address any identified needs and supportive mechanisms related to the intersections between adolescent pregnancy/postpartum, mental health wellbeing and HIV.
A mixed methods approach is being used and the study is exploratory in nature. Comprising two phases, the first phase used qualitative interviews and narratives of life histories to explore the understandings and experiences of various groups of individuals – namely pregnant and post-partum adolescents and their peers, partners and parents/caregivers, as well as frontline health providers and teachers – with regards to adolescent pregnancy, HIV and mental health.
The second phase is quantitative, comprising a cross-sectional survey that will lead to the development of a quantitative instrument for assessing the intersections between adolescent pregnancy, HIV and mental health. The questionnaire will be developed based on phase 1 outcomes.
Funders
- South African National Research Foundation
Partners and Collaborators
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University
- Johns Hopkins University