Black South Africans' Constructions of Their Urban Environments

Abstract

The theory of personal constructs and repertory-grid methodology were used to investigate black South Africans' constructions of their urban environments. A sample of 735 residents of the black townships of five eastern Cape towns and cities provided the basis for generalization on trends in group constructions of urban environments, and perceptions of urban problems. House type and quality and basic residential and transportation infrastructure were found to predominate such constructions and perceptions. Significant differences were evident, however, between towns and social classes. The policy implications of the findings are assessed.