Masekitlana : indigenous stone play and dynamic assessment as therapeutic techniques for children affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate how and whether Masekitlana, a traditional Sotho form of narrative play, would be appropriate in the therapy of Zulu-speaking children affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa. If appropriate, the researchers hoped to inform new knowledge and therapeutic techniques in indigenous contexts. A single system research design was used with an interpretive focus and mixed qualitative and quantitative methodology. Standard of care therapy was followed by Masekitlana intervention therapy with effects measured by the Roberts-2 Test. The findings indicated that standard of care therapy and to a greater extent Masekitlana therapy allowed participants to express traumatic life incidents. As the development of Masekitlana has been informed by typical stone play of African children, participants felt able to express African beliefs such as ancestral guidance, protective spirits, bewitchment, and talking animals. Masekitlana appeared to be a useful technique for child therapy in indigenous settings.