THE FACULTY OF HUMANITIES, SOCIAL SCIENCES AND EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORK

MODULE NAME: SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH PROJECT

MODULE CODE: SCW 4744

MODULE LECTURER: PROF MOGOROSI

SUPERVISOR: DR MANGANYI

TASK: RESEARCH PROPOSAL

FULL NAME: EDWIN PHUMUDZO NETSIANDA

STUDENT NO: 18008175

Title:

The effects of HIV/AIDS on youth living in Makhado municipality

 Table of Content
Contents……………………..………………………………………….. Pages
A. INTRODUCTION TO THE RESEARCH…………………………………1
B. BACKGROUND TO THE RESEARCH………………………………….1-2
C. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM……………………………………….2
D. OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH…………………………………….2-3
E. RESEARCH QUESTIONS………………………………………………..3-4
F. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH………………………………….4-5
G. LITERATURE REVIEW…………………………………………………..5-7
 Key findings……………………………………………………...6
 Theoretical framework………………………………………….7
H. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND DESIGN………………………….7
 Research design…………………………………………………………..7
 Research method………………………………………………...7-8
 Research format…………………………………………………8-9
 Research technique……………………………………………...9
 Data collection methods………………………………………...10
 Population ………………………………………………………11
 Sampling procedures……………………………………………12
 Sampling types…………………………………………………..12-13
 Sampling techniques…………………………………………….13
 Data analysis……………………………………………………..14
I. OUTLINE OF THE PRPOSED RESEARCH REPORT………………...15
J. REFERENCES……………………………………………………………...16-17
 A. INTRODUCTION TO THE RESEARCH
An introduction of research is where a topic is set up to approach the reader interest.
It present the topic and the attract interest from the reader, it also give a special
details of a specific problems. HIV/AIDS is a chronic and complex condition that
requires specialized care and treatment. This puts an increased burden on local
health care centers, as they have to provide services for managing the disease, such
as HIV testing, counseling, antiretroviral therapy, and support for infected youth. The
increased demand for HIV/AIDS related services can strain the resources of local
health care centers. This includes financial resources to procure medications,
laboratory equipment for testing and monitoring, and human resources to provide
care and support to patients. (Taylor, Bogdan, DeVault, Wiley & Sons, 2015)
Local health care centers need to ensure that their staff members are trained and
competent in dealing with HIV/AIDS. This requires continual training and capacity
building programs to enhance their knowledge and skills in providing HIV/AIDS
related services. Health care centers need to integrate HIV/AIDS related services
with other health care services to provide comprehensive care to patients. This can
include integrating HIV testing with other routine screenings, incorporating HIV
counseling and education into existing programs, and coordinating care with other
health care providers (Taylor, & et al, 2015)
HIV/AIDS is still associated with significant stigma and discrimination in many
communities. Local health care centers may have to deal with issues related to
confidentiality, privacy, and discrimination against patients living with HIV/AIDS,
which can affect the quality of care provided. Providing comprehensive care and
treatment for HIV/AIDS can be expensive, especially for resource constrained health
care centers. Costs of medications, laboratory tests, and specialized equipment can
be a financial burden, particularly in low income setting (Netshapapame, &
Mothoagae, 2023).
B. BACKGROUND TO THE RESEARCH
Background of the study consists statements on what led the researchers to launch
the study. It may be generated by observations and the need to explore the problem.
The study focuses on understanding the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth.
HIV/AIDS is a significant global health issue, particularly affecting young people.
According to the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), there were
an estimated 1.7 million new infections among individuals aged 15-24 in 2019. Local
youth, in this context, refers to adolescents and young adults living in a specific
geographical area. The impacts of HIV/AIDS on this population can have far
reaching consequences for individuals, families, communities, and society as a
whole. The study aims to explore various dimensions of these impacts within a
specific local context (Somefun, Theron, & Ungar, 2023).
The impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth can be observed in multiple domains,
including physical, mental, social and economic well-being. Firstly, young people
living with HIV/AIDS often experience physical health challenges, such as
compromised immune systems, opportunistic infections, and increased vulnerability
to other diseases. Secondly, the psychological and emotional well-being of local
youth affected by HIV/AIDS may be significant affected. They may experience high
levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and stigma due to their HIV status, which can
lead to social isolation and a reduced quality of life. Thirdly, the social implications of
HIV/AIDS on local youth are vast. Due to the stigma associated with the disease,
young people may face discrimination in various settings, such as schools,
communities, and healthcare facilities. Their social relationships and support
networks can also be disrupted, leading to a sense of exclusion and weakened
social bonds (Munyai, Makhado, Ramathuba, & Lebese, 2023).
Finally, the economic impact of HIV/AIDS on local youth is substantial. The cost of
healthcare and treatment, along with reduced productivity and disrupted education,
can create financial burdens for both individuals and their families. These economic
challenges can perpetuate the cycle of poverty and further marginalize young people
affected by HIV/AIDS (Munyai & et al, 2023).
C. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
It is an explanation in research that describe the issue that need of study. It is
expected to be brief and concise, and should not include the findings of the research.
While significant progress has been made in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, the
impacts of this epidemic on local youth remain a pressing concern. Despite various
prevention and treatment efforts, young people continue to be disproportionately
affected by HIV/AIDS and experience numerous physical, psychological, and social
consequences. Additionally, the existing literature often lacks comprehensive and
context specific research on the specific effects of HIV/AIDS on local youth
populations, which hinders the development of targeted interventions and policies to
address their unique needs. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct a study that
critically examines the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth, to better understand their
experiences, challenges, and potential solutions in order to develop effective
strategies that can improve the HIV/AIDS outcome among this vulnerable population
(Mukwevho, Maputle, & Ramathuba, 2023).
D. OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH
Objectives describes what the study is trying to achieve and explain why it is
pursuing the study. It is a summary of the approach and purpose of the study and it
helps the researchers focus (Nkatingi, 2020). The study will assess the prevalence
and incidence of HIV/AIDS among local youth in Makhado municipality.
 To examine the psychosocial and economic impacts of HIV/AIDS on local
youth, including its effects on education.
 To identify the risk factors and vulnerabilities that contribute to the higher
rates of HIV/AIDS among local youth and their understanding of prevention
methods.
 To examine the existing healthcare services and support systems available to
local youth affected by HIV/AIDS and identify gaps in their accessibility and
effectiveness.
  To determine the impact of HIV/AIDS on the social networks and relationships
of local youth, including family dynamics, stigmatization, and discrimination.
 To explore the impact of HIV/AIDS on the sexual and reproductive health of
local youth, including the rates of unplanned pregnancies and sexually
transmitted infections.
 To provide recommendations for targeted interventions and programs that
address the specific needs and challenges faced by local youth in relation to
HIV/AIDS.
 To contribute to the existing body of research on HIV/AIDS and youth,
providing valuable insights into the local context and facilitating the
development of evidence based policies and interventions.

E.RESEARCH QUESTIONS
These are questions that the research project aims to answer. They are questions
that gives a clear understanding of the studied phenomena (Ansell, Robson, Hajdu,
& Blerk, 2016).
1. How has the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among local youth in Makhado
municipality, affected their overall health and well-being?

2. In what ways has the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS affected local youth’s in
Makhado municipality, access to healthcare and support services?

3. To what extent does the impact of HIV/AIDS on local youth in Makhado

municipality vary based on factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, and
geographic location?

4. How does the experience of living in Makhado municipality with HIV/AIDS as

a young person affect future aspirations, career opportunities, and overall life
trajectories?

5. How does the availability and accessibility of HIV/AIDS testing and treatment
options impact local youth’s ability to manage their health and prevent
transmission?

6. What support services and interventions have been effective in reducing the
incidence and impact of HIV/AIDS among local youth?

7. What educational resources and support systems are available to help local
youth prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS?

8. What are the long term educational implications of HIV/AIDS among local
youth, particularly in terms of school attendance and academic achievement?
 9. What are the psychological and emotional impacts of growing up in
communities affected by high rates of HIV/AIDS among youth?
10. How does the presence of HIV/AIDS among local youth impact their social
relationships, including friendships, romantic partnerships and family
dynamics?
F. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH
It is the justification of why the research is investigating a given phenomenon.
Rationale gives a clear view of why the study was conducted Researching about the
impacts of HIV/AIDS on the local youth is important as it helps to understand their
vulnerability to infection. Youth, particularly adolescents, engage in risky behaviors
such as unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, or sharing needles. Investigating
the impacts of HIV/AIDS helps in identifying the root causes of this vulnerability and
designing effective prevention programs. By researching the impacts of HIV/AIDS on
local youth, we can gain insights into the health consequences they face. This
includes physical health issues like weakened immune systems, opportunistic
infections, and other associated medical conditions. Understanding these
consequences helps healthcare providers develop appropriate interventions and
treatment plans targeted at youth affected by HIV/AIDS (Mahlophe, 2021).
The impact of HIV/AIDS on the youth extends beyond physical health. It also affects
their psychological and emotional well-being. Researching these impacts can help
identify common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stigma
associated with HIV/AIDS. This information can then be used to develop counseling
and support services tailored to meet the needs of youth affected by HIV/AIDS.
HIV/AIDS affects the educational attainment and socio-economic status of local
youth. Researching these impacts can shed light on how HIV/AIDS disrupts their
educational opportunities, reduces their income earning potential, and increases
their dependence on social welfare systems. This understanding can inform policies
and interventions aimed at minimizing the negative consequences of HIV/AIDS on
the youth’s education and future socio-economic stability (Mahlophe, 2021).
The impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth are often exacerbated by social stigma and
discrimination. Researching these impacts allows us to identify the drivers of stigma,
as well as its effects on the youth’s social relationships, self-esteem, and willingness
to seek healthcare. By understanding these dynamics, targeted educational
campaigns and community based programs can be developed to reduce stigma and
discrimination towards affected youth. Researching the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local
youth helps evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of the health system response.
This includes assessing the availability of prevention services, access to testing and
treatment facilities, and the level of youth-friendly healthcare. By identifying gaps and
areas for improvement, policymakers and health authorities can strengthen the
response to HIV/AIDS, ensuring better health outcomes for the local youth
(Magwabeni, 2017).
This study will contribute to the existing body of empirical research on the impacts of
HIV/AIDS on youth. By studying the specific impacts on local youth, it will enable me
as a researcher to better understand the unique challenges faced by young
individuals residing in Makhado municipality. A study focusing on the impacts of
HIV/AIDS on local youth will help identify gaps in current research and highlight
areas where further investigation is needed. This will guide future research by
providing directions for further exploration and the formulation of research questions
(Magwabeni, 2017).
G. LITERATURE REVIEW
HIV/AIDS is a worldwide health crisis that affects individuals across different age
groups, including young people. This literature review aims to explore the impacts of
HIV/AIDS specifically on local youth. Understanding these impacts is crucial for
developing effective prevention and intervention strategies to mitigate the negative
consequences of HIV/AIDS on this vulnerable population. To provide a
comprehensive review, various academic databases, including PubMed, Scopus,
and Google Scholar, were searched using relevant keywords such as HIV/AIDS,
youth, adolescents, impacts, consequences, and local communities. Peer reviewed
articles published between 2010 and 2021 were primarily included. A total of 40
studies were reviewed, analyzed, and categorized based on their key findings (Nunu,
Makhado, Mbunda, & Lebese, 2021).

Key findings:
Psychological impacts: Several studies highlighted the psychological
consequences of HIV/AIDS on local youth. HIV-positive young people often
experience increased levels of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, stigma, and
discrimination. These psychosocial stressors can adversely affect their educational
and vocational prospects. (Nunu, & et al, 2021).
 Sexual and reproductive health: HIV/AIDS has significant implications for
the sexual and reproductive health of young individuals. HIV-positive youth
are at an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unwanted
pregnancies, and unsafe abortions. Furthermore, they often face challenges
in accessing appropriate sexual healthcare services, including contraception
and comprehensive sexual education (Nunu, & et al, 2021).

 Educational attainment: several studies highlighted the negative impact of

HIV/AIDS on the educational attainment of local youth. Due to illness or
caregiving responsibilities, HIV-positive youth may experience interruptions or
total discontinuation of their education. This can have long lasting
consequences, limiting their future career prospects and perpetuating the
cycle of poverty (Nunu, & et al, 2021).

 Socio-economic consequences: HIV/AIDS has severe socio-economic

consequences for local youth. Studies have demonstrated how young people
affected by HIV/AIDS often face economic hardships, food insecurity, and
decreased opportunities for employment. These challenges further compound
 the vulnerabilities of young individuals and exacerbate their overall living
conditions (Nunu, & et al, 2021).

 Social support networks: research indicates that local youth affected by

HIV/AIDS often struggle to access appropriate social support networks.
Stigma attached to the disease hampers their willingness to disclose their
status to friends, peers, and family members. Consequently, many youth
individuals face social isolation, leading to poor mental health outcomes and
reduced well-being (Nunu, & et al, 2021).
Theoretical framework:
There are several social work theories that will be applied to understand the impacts
of HIV/AIDS on local youth (Ngcobo, Makhado, & Sehularo 2022). These theoretical
frameworks provide insights into the various factors and processes that shape the
experiences of youth living with or affected by HIV/AIDS and inform interventions to
address their unique needs. Here are a few examples:
1. Social ecological theory: the social ecological theory views individuals as
embedded within multiple layers of environments, including the individual,
interpersonal, community, and societal levels. This theory helps to understand the
impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth by examining how factors at each level interact
and influence the experience the experiences, behaviors, and outcomes of these
youth individuals. It recognizes that HIV/AIDS youth not only at an individual level but
also through factors such as stigma, discrimination, access to healthcare, social
support networks, and community norms. (Ngcobo, & et al 2022).
2. System theory: system theory emphasizes the interconnectedness of various
parts within a system. When applied to HIV/AIDS and local youth, this theory
recognizes that youth affected by HIV/AIDS are part of complex systems that include
their families, communities, schools, and healthcare systems. It helps to understand
the impacts of HIV/AIDS on these youth by examining how changes in one part of
the system can have ripple effects on other interconnected parts. It informs
interventions that aim to strengthen and coordinate different systems to better
support the needs of youth affected by HIV/AIDS (Ngcobo, & et al 2022).
3. Intersectionality theory: intersectionality theory highlights the ways in which
multiple systems of oppression, such as race, gender, class, and sexual orientation,
intersect to shape individuals experiences of social disadvantage and inequality.
When applied to HIV/AIDS and local youth, this theory recognizes that young people
living with or affected by HIV/AIDS may experience multiple forms of stigma and
discrimination based on their intersecting identities. It informs interventions that
consider the unique needs and challenges faced by youth who may be additionally
marginalized due to their identities (Karen Healy, 2022).

4. Strengths based perspective: the strength based perspective focuses on

individuals’ strength, resources, and resilience rather than solely on their deficits or
problems. When applied to HIV/AIDS and local youth, this perspective helps to
identify and build upon the strengths of young individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, such
as their resilience, social connections, and coping strategies. It informs interventions
that aim to empower youth by recognizing and strengths and resources to enhance
their overall well-being (Karen Healy, 2022).
H. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND DESIGN
Scientific methodology involves principles of research ethics, such as obtaining
informed consent from participants, protecting confidentiality, and minimizing harm.
These ethical considerations are of utmost importance when researching sensitive
topics like HIV/AIDS, especially when involving vulnerable populations like local
youth. Following a scientific approach helps ensure the well-being and rights of the
participants are respected throughout the research process. By adhering to scientific
methodology, as a researcher, I will be able to apply appropriate study designs,
sampling techniques, and statistical analysis methods. This enhances the validity
and reliability of the research findings, ensuring that the conclusions drawn
accurately reflect the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth (Camic, 2021).
 Research design
Research design refers to the theoretical framework or perspective that guides the
study. It provides a lens through which researchers understand and interpret their
findings. Depending on the nature of the research, different theoretical perspectives
may be used. For example, in social sciences, researchers may adopt a sociological
perspective, psychological perspective, or economic perspective, among others, to
understand human behavior and social phenomena. These theoretical perspectives
provide a foundation for the formulation of research questions, selection of research
methods, and interpretation of findings (Camic, 2021).
 Research method
This research will make use of qualitative research methods. Qualitative research is
a method used to gather and analyze non-numerical data such as words, images,
and observations. It aims to understand human behavior, beliefs, experiences, and
perceptions by studying social phenomena in their natural settings. Unlike
quantitative research, which focuses on measurement and statistical analysis,
qualitative research emphasizes the interpretation and contextual understanding of
the researched phenomenon (Grossoehme, 2014)
This study will adopt qualitative method because it can provide more in-depth
insights into the experiences, perceptions, and social impacts of HIV/AIDS on local
youth. This will involve conducting interviews, focus groups, or participant
observations to gather rich narratives and understand the lived realities of these
young individuals. Qualitative research can allow for exploring issues such as
stigma, discrimination, psychological well-being, and social support networks,
barriers to testing or treatment, and overall quality of life (Camic, 2021).
One practical application of qualitative research in studying the impacts of HIV/AIDS
on local youth will be conducting in-depth interviews with affected individuals to gain
a deeper understanding of their experiences, challenges, and coping mechanisms.
By understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by local youth
affected by HIV/AIDS, qualitative research will help shape the development of
effective prevention strategies and intervention programs. This research will provide
insights into the specific needs, barriers, and facilitators related to safe sex practices,
awareness-raising campaigns, access to healthcare, and stigma reduction efforts,
among others (Camic, 2021).
 Research format
This study will make use of descriptive research method. Descriptive research
method is scientific method used to describe or explain the characteristics of a
population or phenomenon. It involves observing and measuring variables without
manipulating them. The purpose of descriptive research is to provide an accurate
depiction of a situation, event, or relationship (Starman, 2013). This method is often
used in social sciences, psychology, and education to gather data that can help
understand and describe various aspects of human behavior, attitudes, and
opinions. Descriptive research typically involves methods such as observations and
case studies. It is primarily concerned with providing a detailed and comprehensive
understanding of a particular phenomenon or group (Naderifar, Goli, & Ghaljaie,
2021).
This study will adopt descriptive research method as it can allows for a
comprehensive understanding of the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth. Descriptive
research provides a basis for identifying trends and patterns related to the impacts of
HIV/AIDS on local youth. It will help me as a researcher to identify common areas of
concern, such as the prevalence rates, demographics, types of transmission, and
risk behaviors among youth populations. These trends and patterns allow
policymakers and organizations to develop targeted interventions and prevention
strategies. Descriptive research provides policymakers, healthcare providers, and
community organizations with essential information to design and implement
effective policies, interventions, and programs. By understanding the specific
challenges faced by local youth, such as stigma, discrimination, lack of education,
and limited access to healthcare, stakeholders can tailor prevention strategies and
support services to meet their needs (Naderifar,. & et al, 2021).
Practical application of the descriptive research format will be used to study the
impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth in several ways: Observing behavior and
characteristics of local youth in Makhado municipality, who are affected by
HIV/AIDS. This will include observing their healthcare-seeking behavior, adherence
to treatment, emotional well-being, or engagement in risky behaviors. This study will
provide insights into the challenges they face and identify areas for intervention. As a
researcher I will make use of interviews and focus groups with local youth living with
or affected by HIV/AIDS. This will allow me to explore their experiences, challenges
they encounter in seeking support or maintaining health, and any stigma or
discrimination they face within their communities (Naderifar, & et al, 2021).
As a researcher I will analyze existing data sets and medical records to understand
patterns in the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among local youth in Makhado municipality.
This will help identify high risk groups, geographical areas, or populations that
require targeted interventions and prevention strategies. Observing and documenting
individual cases of local youth living with HIV/AIDS. This approach will provide a
deep understanding of their personal experiences, challenges, and successes. Case
studies will also shed light on the effectiveness of support programs and
interventions and share lessons learned that will benefit other affected youth in
others municipalities (Naderifar, & et al, 2021).
 Research technique
Focus group: from a theoretical perspective, a focus group can be defined as a
qualitative research method that involves a group of individuals brought together to
discuss a specific topic, in this case; the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth. The
purpose of a focus group is to obtain in-depth insights, perceptions, and opinions,
and opinions from participants within a group setting. Focus groups typically consist
of 10-15 participants who are representative of a target population or share common
characteristics relevant to the research topic (Onwuegbuzie, & Leech. 2013).
There are several reasons why it is important for me as a researcher to apply focus
groups as a technique when researching the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth in
Makhado municipality. Focus groups will allow me to gather insights and
perspectives from a diverse group of participants. This will enables me to understand
the experiences, concerns, and challenges faced by different individuals, thereby
providing a holistic understanding of the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth. Focus
groups will generate rich qualitative data as participants will freely express their
opinions, beliefs, and experiences. This will provide valuable insights into their
emotional, social, psychological, and cultural impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth.
Focus groups provide an opportunity for participants to actively engage in the
research process. It allows them to contribute their ideas, suggestions, and
feedback, making them feel involved and valued. This participatory approach will
lead to a greater sense of empowerment and ownership among local youth affected
by HIV/AIDS (Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).
A focus group will be conducted with local youth in Makhado municipality, to gauge
their knowledge and understanding of HIV/AIDS. This will assist in terms of
assessing the level of awareness among youth, identify gaps in knowledge, and
understand their sources of information. Focus groups will be used to explore the
attitudes and perceptions of local youth towards HIV/AIDS. This will help in terms of
understanding the level of stigma and discrimination faced by individuals living with
HIV/AIDS in Makhado municipality. Participant discussions and personal
experiences will provide valuable insights into the dynamics of social stigma. Focus
groups will shed light into the challenges faced by local youth when it comes to
HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Discussions will reveal barriers such as lack of
access to healthcare, social and cultural factors, fear of disclosure, or barriers
related to education and awareness. Understanding these barriers is crucial in
designing targeted interventions. Focus group will uncover how local youth cope with
the impact of HIV/AIDS, both individually and collectively. Participants will discuss
their strategies for dealing with stigma, emotional and psychological challenges, and
finding support networks. This information will guide the development of support
services and initiatives tailored to the local context (Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).

 Data collection methods

Secondary data: this can be understood as a valuable resource for researchers to
examine and analyze phenomena without the need for conducting primary data
collection. It allows researchers to access a wide range of information and large
datasets, providing a foundation for the development of research questions,
exploration of trends, validation of findings, and comparison across different studies
(Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).
1. As a researcher, I will make use of National and regional health reports that
provide data on HIV/AIDS prevalence rates among youth populations.
2. Health department websites that compile information on HIV/AIDS diagnoses,
treatment, and prevention efforts.
3. Non-governmental organizations working in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention
or support, which may have data on the specific impacts of the disease on
local youth.
4. Case studies and reports from local municipality organizations and support
groups that work with youth affected by HIV/AIDS, which may provide
qualitative insights into the specific challenges and interventions in place.
5. Lastly I will make use of research articles and academic studies that have
investigated the impacts of HIV/AIDS on youth in similar contexts or
population.

 Population
Age groups in my study will be youth between ages 18-35 years both males and
females who belong to diverse ethnic backgrounds including whites; blacks and
coloreds. Socioeconomic status: low-income, middle-income, or high-income.
Geographical location: urban, suburban and rural areas (Naderifar, & et al, 2021).
 Sampling procedures
Sampling refers to the process of selecting a sample, from a larger population for the
purpose of conducting research or data analysis. The population represents the
entire group of individuals, objects, or events that the researcher is interested in
studying, while the sample represents a smaller portion of the population that is
selected to represent and provide insights into the whole (Onwuegbuzie, & et al.
2013).
A sampling procedure is a systematic approach used to select the sample from the
population. It involves defining the target population, determining the appropriate
sample size, and choosing the individuals that will be included in the sample. The
sampling procedure plays a critical role in ensuring the sample is representative,
meaning that it accurately reflects the characteristics and diversity of the population.
Theoretical methods of sampling include probability sampling and non-probability
sampling (Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).
 Sampling type
Non-probability sampling: is a sampling technique in which the selection of
participants is not based on random selection or probability. In this type of sampling,
the probability of each individual being selected for the sample is not known, and
therefore, the sample may not be representative of the larger population. There are
various methods of non-probability sampling including convenience sampling,
purposive sampling, snowball sampling and quota sampling. These methods will rely
on my judgement as researcher or convenience in selecting participants, rather than
using random selection (Starman, 2013).
Non-probability sampling is important as it will allows me as a researcher to reach
youth who are affected by the disease that will be hard to access through probability
sampling methods. Local youth in Makhado who are affected by HIV/AIDS may
belong to marginalized or stigmatized groups, making it difficult to locate and recruit
them through random methods (Starman, 2013).
 Sampling technique
Purposive sampling exist because I as a researcher has a knowledge about this
study population (youth affected by HIV/AIDS in Makhado municipality). Hence
sample size will comprises 200 participants (Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).
Purposive sampling: This involves selecting participants who meet specific criteria or
have particular characteristics relevant to the research question. As a researcher I
will make use of purposive sampling as this research will focus on specific
subgroups of local youth who are most affected by HIV/AIDS. For example,
purposive sampling will be employed to target youth who are already diagnosed with
HIV/AIDS and those considered at high risk (Crabtree, & Miller, 2022).
By using purposive sampling will allows me as a researcher to intentionally select
participants who reflect the diversity and characteristics of the local youth in
Makhado municipality. By including participants from different socio-economic
backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnicities, the study results can
provide a more comprehensive understanding of how HIV/AIDS impacts local youth.
Using purposive sampling can ensure that the study includes participants who have
directly experienced the impacts of HIV/AIDS. This can provide a more accurate and
detailed understanding of how the disease affects the physical, emotional, and social
well-being of local youth in Makhado (Onwuegbuzie, & et al. 2013).
As a researcher I will make use of purposive sampling to sample local youth of
Makhado municipality who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. This approach will
allows for a detailed understanding of the psychological, social, and physical impact
the disease has on youth. Examining the experiences of this specific subgroup will
help inform interventions, policies, and educational programs tailored to support and
empower young people living with HIV/AIDS (Crabtree, & et al, 2022).
I will use purposive sampling to sample local youth actively engaging with support
services such as clinics, healthcare facilities and other community based
organizations. By including individuals who utilize these services, as a researcher I
will explore the effectiveness of existing support systems, identify gaps in care, and
understand the challenges faced by local youth accessing HIV/AIDS related services
(Crabtree, & et al, 2022).

 Data analysis
Data analysis involves the systematic examination of collected data to identify
patterns, themes, and trends in order to generate meaningful conclusions and
insights. It involves various processes, such as organizing, cleaning, and coding
data, as well as applying statistical and qualitative techniques to analyze the data
and draw inferences. Data analysis in social work research can help researchers
understand complex social issues, evaluate interventions or programs, and inform
evidence-based practice and policy development (Shi, 2022).
The data analysis process focusing on the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth
involves several steps to collect, interpret, and draw meaningful insights from the
available data (Shi, 2022).
i. Data collection: the process will starts with acquiring relevant data related
to HIV/AIDS impacts on local youth. This will involve gathering statistics
and reports from public health organizations, surveys, medical records, or
data collected through specific research studies.
ii. Data cleaning and preparation: once the data is collected, it needs to be
cleaned and prepared for analysis. This step includes checking for any
inconsistencies, missing values, and outliers. It will also involve converting
data into a standardized format, consolidating different sources, and
creating appropriate variables for analysis.
iii. Exploratory data analysis: in this step, data analysts will explore the
dataset to gain insights and understand the HIV/AIDS impacts on local
youth. This involves various techniques like summary statistics, data
visualization, and initial data exploration. EDA helps identify patterns,
trends, or relationships within the data.
iv. Hypothesis formulation: based on the initial exploration, analysts will
identify specific hypothesis related to the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local
youth. These hypothesis serve as starting points for further analysis and
allow for more focused investigation of the data.
v. Statistical analysis: to test the formulated hypotheses, various statistical
techniques will be employed. For example, regression analysis will be
used to examine the relationship between different factors and HIV/AIDS
impacts. This will involve analyzing variables like age, gender, socio-
economic status, educational level, and access to healthcare services.
vi. Interpretation and inference: once the statistical analysis is performed,
data analysts interpret the results and draw meaningful conclusions. They
 assess the statistical significance of findings and evaluate the strength of
relationships or associations observed.
The data analysis procedure is typically conducted by researchers or individuals with
expertise in data analysis and research methods.
This study will make use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). This is a
software package that will be used for statistical analysis. It offers a wide range of
statistical procedures and techniques, including descriptive statistics. SPSS
Statistics also provides data visualization options, and reporting capabilities (Shi,
2022).
I. OUTLINE OF THE PRPOSED RESEARCH REPORT
Chapter 1: Introduction
A. Background information on HIV/AIDS
B. Importance of studying the impacts on local youth.
C. Research objectives and questions
Chapter 2: Literature review
A. Prevalence and transmission of HIV/AIDS among youth.
B. Social and psychological effects of living with HIV/AIDS
C. Access to healthcare and HIV prevention services for youth.
D. Impacts of HIV/AIDS on education and employment opportunities.
E. Theoretical framework
Chapter 3. Methodology
A. Research design (qualitative)
B. Data collection (interviews and focus groups).
C. Participant selection and recruitment strategies.
D. Ethical considerations.
E. Data analysis
Chapter 4: Findings
A. Overview of qualitative findings
B. Impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth identified.
C. Factors influencing these impacts
D. Differences among demographic groups (e.g. gender, socioeconomic status).
Chapter 5: Discussions
A. Interpretation of findings in relation to existing literature.
B. Implications for policy and intervention strategies.
C. Recommendations for addressing the impacts of HIV/AIDS on local youth.
D. Areas for further research and exploration.
 Conclusions: summary of main findings and key insights
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