Ondersteuning aan die militêre maatskaplike werker vir hulpverlening aan die MIV/VIGS-geïnfekteerde persoon

Abstract

The current HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa poses major challenges to the social work profession. As professionals, social workers have to be motivated to render an effective service and possess the necessary knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS. Military personnel in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) are vulnerable to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, because a large percentage is young, sexually active and away from home (which is called deployment). Deployment to areas away from home could increase their chances of contracting HIV/AIDS, as they are exposed to take risks and are surrounded by opportunities for casual sex. Social workers in the SANDF are therefore confronted with the challenge to provide professional service to HIV/AIDS infected employees and their affected families to treat the psycho-social impact of the disease. Attitudes, beliefs and assumptions contribute towards social workers' motivation regarding service delivery with the HIV/AIDS client. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on social workers' motivation within the HIV/AIDS domain.