Exploring the lived experiences of children in relation to trauma and violence exposure in the Vhembe district

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Violence and trauma exposure among children remain critical public health issues, particularly in under-resourced regions such as the Vhembe district, South Africa. Although much is known about the prevalence of child abuse, limited research explores children’s lived experiences and coping mechanisms from their own perspectives. OBJECTIVE : This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of children exposed to trauma and violence in the Vhembe district, focusing on their emotional responses, coping strategies, and perceived sources of support. METHODS : A qualitative research design using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen children aged 9–17 years who had experienced trauma or violence and were receiving counselling services at the Thohoyandou Victim Empowerment Programme. RESULTS : Participants reported multiple forms of violence: physical, sexual, emotional, and community-based, often perpetrated by trusted caregivers. Themes included fear, isolation, physical and psychological pain, and reliance on avoidance or social coping strategies. CONCLUSION : Exposure to violence profoundly shapes children’s emotional well-being and coping capacity. These findings emphasize the need for trauma-informed, child-centered mental health services and school-based psychosocial interventions. Future research should expand to explore gender-specific experiences and community-level prevention strategies within rural South African contexts.