Author: Edwards, D
Abstract: Twelve case studies of township women with limited education were conducted in order to contribute towards the development of health psychology interventions for South Africa's large population of persons suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure). First, a detailed assessment interview was used as the basis for constructing a life history in which special attention was given to traumatic events, developing a lifestyle analysis with special reference to known risk factors for hypertension. Second, the case was conceptualized in terms of targets and strategies for change within a cognitive-behavioural model. In the third stage, in seven of the cases, brief stress management interventions were implemented and monitored. Although uneducated township dwellers are often motivated to make lifestyle changes, the levels of stress that they endure are such that advice and brief interventions are likely to make little impact. Detailed conceptualizations of all 12 cases were used a basis for recommendations regarding a non-pharmacological treatment approach in a primary health care setting. These included: (1) structured psyche-educational groups on weight reduction, physical fitness, anxiety management, assertiveness training, problem solving and anger management; (2) the opportunity for a personal counselling session, perhaps annually; and (3) the possibility of specific referrals for bereavement therapy groups or family therapy.
Source: SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY-SUID-AFRIKAANSE TYDSKRIF VIR SIELKUNDE
Publication Year: 1997
Volume: 27
Issue nr: 1
Pages: 22 - 29