Citation

Sherriff B, Seedat MA, Suffla S. Afr. Safety Promot. 2010; 8(2): 20-38.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Institute for Social and Health Sciences, University of South Africa)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Given that within peacebuilding and safety promotion initiatives, family systems are defined as a form of social support, and as an intrinsic component of collective ecologies, it is deemed necessary and appropriate to examine tools aimed at assessing family functioning. Accordingly, this article reviews three measures of family functioning, namely: (i) the Family Assessment Device (FAD); (ii) the Family System Test (FAST); and (iii) eco-maps. The typical ways in which families function should provide valuable insights into the formative programme development of peace and safety interventions. We advocate that the most scientifically rigorous point of departure would be to investigate the primary family types within vulnerable communities in South Africa, particularly wherein such initiatives would be of crucial significance. This would be beneficial considering that ecologically and psychometrically valid assessment devices would be dependent on predominant family structures, prevalent cultural commonalities, and dominant language trends within target communities. Issues centred on language biases, literacy levels, and the administration of assessment devices requires careful consideration by all primary stakeholders in order for social justice to be attained. Inclusiveness and participatory approaches are critical activities during formative programme development processes.

Language: en