South African Children: a history of adversity, violence and trauma

This paper examines the adverse situation that continues to face South African children. Children have until very recently, been regarded as one of the most neglected and overtly oppressed sectors of South African society. The installation of a democratic government ushered in a range of policies and measures designed to promote the wellbeing of children. Despite this new commitment and support, the position of children has remained one of considerable concern. In this paper we report on a range of social, educational, health and psychological indicators of the wellbeing of South African children both before and after the 1994 elections. Although there is a dearth of systematic and national data-bases, a growing number of research and other reports indicate that the country remains a challenging and at times hostile context for its children. As the country proceeds with its reconstruction and development programme, the urgent need for social and psychological services for children remains a particular concern.