Promoting Healthy Human Relationships in Post-Apartheid South Africa: Social Work and Social Development Perspectives

This book examines healthy human relationships in post-apartheid South Africa, highlighting the challenges and prospects for promoting social justice, anti-discrimination, diversity, and empowerment. It is based on a social work conference in 2019 and offers solutions to societal ills caused by corrosive or broken human relationships.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This groundbreaking book delves into the intricate dynamics of healthy human relationships in post-apartheid South Africa, a society grappling with profound challenges. Despite the nation's commitment to an inclusive and human-rights-based democracy since 1994, human relationships continue to be strained, reflecting the complex and divisive past of South Africa. Recognizing the importance of healing and fostering positive connections in a society striving for reconciliation, this comprehensive volume sheds light on numerous issues, prospects, and challenges related to promoting healthy human relationships in the aftermath of apartheid.

Social work and social development perspectives form the foundation of the discussions presented in this volume. Social work, renowned for its focus on human relationships, prioritizes the interconnectedness of individuals within broader social structures and forces, including social justice, empowerment, anti-discrimination, diversity, and building people's strengths and capabilities.

The book is a compilation of select papers presented at a social work conference in 2019, co-hosted by the Department of Social Development at the University of Cape Town and the Association of South African Social Work Education Institutions. The chapters offer insightful solutions to the societal ills that stem from corrosive or broken human relationships, such as resurgent racism in post-apartheid South Africa, the challenges of promoting healthy relationships with sub-Saharan African immigrants and South Africans, the importance of fostering family and human relationships in a traumatized society, and the role of social policy, social welfare, social security, and legislation in fostering healthy human relationships in post-apartheid South Africa.

Furthermore, the book explores social protection as a critical aspect of promoting healthy human relationships. Social protection encompasses various measures and policies aimed at safeguarding individuals and families from social, economic, and political vulnerabilities. It includes programs that provide access to basic needs, such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education, as well as initiatives that promote social inclusion, resilience, and empowerment.

By examining the complexities of human relationships in post-apartheid South Africa, this book contributes to a deeper understanding of the social and emotional well-being of individuals and communities. It provides valuable insights for social workers, policymakers, educators, and researchers seeking to promote positive change and foster healthy human connections in a society striving for reconciliation and social justice.

Weight: 397g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030501419
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021