PREFACE

First of all I wish to thank God; who has always provided me with faith in myself and helped me to see the light at the end of tunnel. He has without failure, given me the strength to carry on. My sincere thanks to the Department of Criminology, University of South Africa, for affording me the opportunity to complete this study. I am indebted to my supervisor Professor Herman Conradie, for his insightful comments that opened up new perspectives that allowed me to explore avenues I would not have considered; and for his undying encouragement. To my husband, Mbongiseni Tshabalala, for taking the time to read various versions and offer valuable comments. I would not have completed this study without his support, his encouragement, and his dedication to the family. To all the respondents, for agreeing to be part of this research and for allowing themselves to re-live through some of the experiences they would rather block out. To my sisters and my mother, who stepped into my maternal role whenever I needed them. They remain a source of strength and security when I stand on shifting ground. To Rear Admiral Green, for allowing me to complete the work and still be sane. To my best friends, Ms Nonhlanhla Makhanda and Ms. Brigid Litchfield whose prayers and support kept me going. Finally, to my congregation at Meadowlands Baptist Church in Soweto and my Christian family at Resurrection Community Church in Kagiso for their prayers. ii