A case study of teachers implementation of asset-based psychosocial support

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore and describe teachers’ implementation of asset-based psychosocial support in a school community to promote resilience in vulnerable children and families (particularly within the context of HIV/AIDS). The study formed part of the broader STAR-pilot project. The primary assumption with which I approached the study was that teachers are able to provide asset-based psychosocial support focusing on social, emotional, health and educational needs of vulnerable children and families. An interpretivist paradigm was used to describe the asset-based psychosocial support implemented. I selected a case study design with eight participants (teachers) who were conveniently and purposefully selected due to their involvement in the STAR-pilot project. I co-facilitated a PRA-directed workshop with the teachers. Data was collected by means of a PRA-directed workshop, observations, visual data (photographs) and field notes. I followed a thematic content analysis of data to interpret emerging themes and sub-themes. Psychosocial support interventions were focused on addressing basic physiological needs, social support and emotional needs. Findings revealed that implementation of asset-based psychosocial support within a school community, promoted the resilience of vulnerable children and families.