| Summary: | HIV/AIDS mainly is a health problem, which is accompanied by social and economic
implications worldwide and is seen as a pandemic that negatively affects South Africa.
The agricultural labour force, specifically the farm worker community, is also negatively
affected by it. However, few research reports are available pertaining to this problem in
this section of the population
Based on the above, the researcher investigated the attitudes and level of knowledge of the
farm worker community with regard to HIV/AIDS. During the investigation it was
established that knowledge was lacking and a misperception regarding the HI virus
prevailed in the farm worker community.
A needs assessment was executed in order to establish what information the farm workers
wish to receive and whether they would be willing to attend group assemblies. Initially,
the farm workers were not familiar with the term 'group work', but once it was explained
to them it was established that the farm workers did indeed feel a need for a group work
programme. A prevention programme was compiled in accordance with the needs of the
farm workers, which included giving information on HIV/AIDS as well as teaching them
life skills. An attempt was made to compile the programme in a culture sensitive manner
so that information could reach the farm workers at their level of functioning.
The aim of the investigation was:
To establish the attitudes, convictions and level of knowledge of black farm
workers with regard to HIV/AIDS by means of a literature study and empirical
investigation; and
To compile an HIV/AIDS group work prevention programme based on a literature
study and empirical research.
In conclusion, it can be said that the research has proved that knowledge pertaining to the
virus is lacking among the farm worker community and that it is essential to change their
attitudes.
Group work, as a method of social work, can be utilised with remarkable success to bring
about positive changes regarding HIV/AIDS in this sector. === Thesis (M.A. (MW))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.
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