AN ECOLOGICAL SYSTEMS APPROACH TO ASSISTING HIV/AIDS ORPHANED LEARNERS WITH BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMS AND UNMET EMOTIONAL NEEDS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ZIMBABWE

Author's Name: Dr Sylod Chimhenga
Subject Area: Social Science and Humanities
Subject Education
Section Research Paper

Keyword:

Behaviour problems, HIV/AIDS orphaned learners, unmet emotional needs, Ecological systems approach, Disciplinary problems.


Abstract

Behaviour problems are a problem in many secondary schools in Zimbabwe and are common to HIV/AIDS Orphaned learners. This study focused on how these learners with behaviour problems and unmet emotional needs can be assisted through an ecological systems approach. The survey design which was mainly qualitative in nature was used. Fifty teachers and ten parents of learners in secondary schools were purposefully sampled. A questionnaire with mainly open ended items was administered to the teachers and parents. The behaviour problems being manifested by AIDS orphaned learners include disruptive behavior, aggressive and anti-social behavior, telling lies and theft. The findings highlighted important guidelines, which teachers, parents and the community can use to assist and understand behavior problems of AIDS orphaned learners in secondary schools. The study recommended that the parents, school management, and other staff members of the school should join hands in ensuring that a climate conducive to teaching and learning for HIV/AIDS Orphaned learners is prevalent in secondary schools.

Download Full Paper