Nkhaviso Mathebula

Prof. Nkhaviso Mathebula

Human Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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27 December 2022 in Children
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
MMMabitsela Pitso Mphasha
Mabitsela Pitso Mphasha
MRMatjie Rapetsoa
Matjie Rapetsoa
NMNkhaviso Mathebula
Nkhaviso Mathebula
CMChina Kamogelo Makua
China Kamogelo Makua
SMSanele Mazibuko
Sanele Mazibuko
Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) is critical in tracking child growth to address widespread malnutrition and health status. Attitudes influence behaviour change, including attendance of GMP, and negative attitudes are linked to non-attendance. Moreover, negative attitudes correlate with low socioeconomic position. South Africa is characterized by inequality, which may lead to negative attitudes towards GMP among caregivers with a poor socioeconomic status. Hence, this study seeks to explore the attitudes of caregivers of children under five towards GMP. A qualitative exploratory study design was used. Caregivers of children under five were purposively sampled. Twenty-three participants were interviewed one-on-one, and the data were recorded using voice recorders and field notes. Tesch’s eight steps and inductive, descriptive, and open coding techniques were used to analyse the data. Participants understood the significance of GMP and were confident their children would benefit from it; hence, they attended sessions out of love for their children. The inconsistent availability of GMP services and the behaviour of health workers affected participants’ attitude. Despite these challenges, participants felt good about GMP. Caregivers’ love for their children/grandchildren helped them overcome challenges experienced at the health facilities. Good feelings about GMP boosted caregivers’ attitudes and aided in adherence. An intervention to address element impacting attitudes of caregivers is recommended.