Training Emerging Researchers in Constrained Contexts: Conducting Quality of Life Research with Children in South Africa

Abstract

The chapter aims to briefly sketch the extent of Quality of Life (QoL) research relating to children in South Africa, to introduce the shift to subjective QoL, and to propose a syllabus for training emerging researchers for conducting QoL research with children. It proceeds by elaborating on the shift toward and extent of QoL research in South Africa and introduces the QoL research with children in this context. The focus then shifts to contextualising South Africa, particularly in terms of legislation and objective indicators relating to children. The key aspect of the chapter is to propose a syllabus for teaching QoL research with children. In particular five aspects are put forward, that is: contextualising children and childhood in South Africa; children’s QOL and inequalities; theories of children’s subjective well-being (SWB); methodological considerations; and children’s rights and SWB. To this end, the goal of preparing emerging researchers in this field of study would be to continue working toward improving the lives of children across all spheres.