Perceptions of resilience by caregivers of children in a residential care facility

Abstract

This study, aimed at analysing the methods used by caregivers to construct their own resilience at a residential care facility for orphaned and vulnerable children, forms part of a larger study investigating the role of emotional awareness in caregivers. Convenience selection was used for the research site on account of accessibility, and purposive selection for the participants owing to their role as caregivers at the care facility. The qualitative case study method facilitated contextual investigation of the matter at hand. Data were collected by means of a focus group discussion with seven participants, individual interviews with four participants, and the researcher’s informal observations in order to elucidate the main research question: How do formal caregivers of orphaned and vulnerable children construct their own resilience? Kumpfer’s Resilience Framework served as the theoretical foundation for the study. Thematic analysis of the data yielded the following themes: demonstrating resilience when functioning within an unsupportive environment; demonstrating resilience when establishing a sense of control; demonstrating resilience through belief; and resilience born out of identity as a caregiver. Results were related to existing literature and the theoretical framework. Furthermore, a conceptual framework for the South African context is suggested.