Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Pastorale berading'

The research on pastoral counseling of persons struggling with complex trauma was undertaken with the aim of designing a practice-orientated model for pastoral counseling in order to guide such persons to emotional healing, stability and spiritual growth. An exegetical study throws light on the role of prayer and trust in God. One can entrust to God one's problems and one's supplication for help in the firm belief that He will provide a way out. An investigation into counseling perspectives in the Scriptures and in the literature on Christian counseling brought to light that pastoral counseling, which is a mandate given to believers, affords a unique opportunity for lovingly encouraging and consoling people with complex trauma. Contributions by psychiatry and psychology emphasise the phase approach. They stress security and stability, the processing of the traumatic memory and mourning, as well as a renewed commitment to new relationships. The core of the findings is that persons with complex trauma - which is an intricate syndrome relating to a spectrum of post-traumatic disturbances following intense, protracted and repeated trauma - can be guided by pastoral counseling to emotional healing, stability and spiritual growth. Specific reference is made to victims of prolonged family violence and/or physical and/or emotional and/or sexual abuse and/or protracted physical and/or emotional neglect in family context. The empirical research confirmed that the children of the Abraham Krielkinderhuis, Potchefstroom, who were subjected to these traumatic experiences in their parental homes exhibit the typical symptomatology of complex trauma. These entail emotional disturbances like anger and self-injury, disturbances of consciousness like dissociation, disturbances of self-image like stigma, guilt and shame, disturbances in the image of the perpetrator, like unrealistic expectations and finally disturbances in relationships like distrust and loss of faith. The principles and outcome of the empirical research are eventually applicable to all persons struggling with complex trauma. A practice-orientated counseling model was designed which focuses on stabilisation and security, the processing of the traumatic memory and mourning, as well as a renewed commitment to life in abundance and new relationships. In this therapeutic relationship of faith the distress narrative and the narrative of the past are central. God allows everything to turn out for the best for those who trust in Him. In Christ people are more than victors through God's will for their lives.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.

The role of the father in post-modern times has changed dramatically and the new challenges posed to fathers due to these changes prompted this study. The aim of this study is to design a theory for a practice that could possibly be used by a Biblical counsellor or therapist to counsel and enrich fathers amidst the challenges of the post-modern world. The research was done on the basis of the practical theological model of Zerfass and contains the following structure: • A meta-theoretical evaluation of fatherhood in related subject areas revealed by literature studies. • The meta-theoretical evaluation was combined with an empirical research by means of interviews with fathers. An applicable questionnaire was used to research the conceptual understanding of fatherhood and practice of post-modern fatherhood with the fathers. . A basic theory on which Scriptural perspectives on fatherhood have been researched. The meta-theoretical research indicated that the main reason for the dramatic changes to fatherhood is not ideological based but due to practical changes in society. Due to the women's very successful entering of the workplace, a predominantly men's territory, many things have changed on the family front. Men were forced to share responsibilities in the practical care taking of children at home. A search for new models to post-modern fatherhood started. The old patriarchal model failed to provide ways of meaningful understanding and processing the new challenges of fatherhood brought on by practical changes in the society of a post-modern world. Linked to this search for new models of post-modern fatherhood is the feminist's struggle against patriarchy. The research indicated that the main pillar of patriarchy was the theological concept of God as Father. The feminist produced a lot of material on the ways and means to free God and society of patriarchy. The basic theory on which Scriptural perspectives on fatherhood have been researched took into consideration the results of feminist's studies. One benefit from the feminist's struggle was the emphasis put on the metaphorical character of theological discourse. God our Father is a metaphorical discourse, which bring into play the hermeneutic process of interpretation. Realising the metaphorical character of theological language we can enhance our understanding of God by reconstructing our concept of God's fatherhood. Through research we rediscovered many other complimenting metaphors of God in a parental capacity (God sometimes acts like a Mother, He gave birth to His people etc.) which can help the post-modern father to come to a better self-expression when it comes to the challenges posed to him today. Very often these new roles were traditionally restricted to the women's territory. The conclusion of the research is that through the process of pastoral hermeneutics the post-modern father can discover the cultured derived practice of his fatherhood and evaluate this post-modern fatherhood in terms of God's fatherhood as it has been revealed through the process of researching the Scripture. The interaction between his understanding of what fatherhood means and of God's fatherhood enables the father to come to a new and meaningful self-expression of his own fatherhood in post-modern times.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2005.

This study introduces a self concept that can serve as practice theory for pastoral counselling. The practical theological model of Zerfass is used to develop a basis, meta and practice theory. The basis theoretical perspectives indicate that the self may be viewed as the culmination of al the dimensions of perception of man. Three dimensions of the self may be distinguished, after the analogy of man as creation of God. -lmago Dei as structure/condition before God - man as the image of God - this emphasizes man's worth as creation of God. -lmago Dei as relational concept - man as a relationship being -this is essentially about experiencing love (security) in relationship with God, fellow man and nature. -lmago Dei as functional concept - man as representative of God -this essentially deals with the position in which man is appointed as representative of God. As a result of the fall of man the image of God in man is scarred and he exists in a condition of: -Shame (as the opposite of worth); -Fear (as the opposite of love); and -Guilt (as the opposite of position). Through the process of regeneration God creates a new person and in so doing restores man's worth in Christ. Through reconciliation in Christ God restores the love (security) within relationships as He had in mind before the fall. God acquits the person in Christ Jesus and restores the saved person's position as representative of God. Although man possesses love (security) and position in Christ, a bipolar tension exist between: -Worth and shame; -Love (security) and fear; and -Position and guilt. According to the meta theoretical perspectives man is a social creature and his/her self comes to fulfilment (with)in relationships. Man finds himself in a certain environment and circumstances and as such is subject to external influences. Man's need for security must be heeded in order for the self to realize its full potential. A safe place for genuineness, respect, and empathy must be created to actualise the self. Seeing that children learn through imitation, it is the responsibility of adults to be admirable role models for children. These perspectives raise an appeal to the human intellect. Man's intellectual/cognitive dimension therefore plays an important role in man's self. Finally, guidelines for the design and application of a practice theory for the application of a self-concept for pastoral counselling are suggested.<br>Thesis (M.A. (Practical Theology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.

The objective of this practical theological study was to explore to what extent a pastoral accentuation of Christian teachers as role models can result in a new perspective on the teacher-learner relationship in the South African school context. For this purpose, a research question was formulated with the eye on identifying elements of pastoral knowledge and skills to equip the Christian teacher to lead learners by means of a metaphorical deployment of his/her function as a role model towards spiritual maturity. Basic theoretical guidelines were formulated from Scripture to describe the metaphorical functions in the pastoral role of Christian teachers. The function of biblical metaphors such as shepherd, servant, comforter, priest, prophet and king were described. A literary investigation was conducted to explain the educational milieu in which teachers in the South African schooling system operate. In this section of the study, as a result of investigations into related sciences, the following aspects came to light: the question regarding the essence of education; the role and function of the teacher; the role of the learner and also the role of the school as an educational institution. An empirical study was done to gain further perspective on the realities, with which teachers in South African schools are faced with on daily basis, and how they visualise their role in this context. A qualitative research method was done by interviewing Christian teachers. The methodological model of Zerfass was used as a framework, to establish hermeneutical interaction between basic-theoretical, meta-theoretical and empirical aspects. Thereafter my own model was designed to provide guidelines to the Christian teacher to fulfil his/her role, as a role model for learners. Research findings indicate that a Christian teacher?s metaphorical deployment of his/her function as role model can indeed play a vital role in the education situation in the context of the current South African school system. However, there seems to be some uncertainty in the midst of teachers about what exactly the metaphorical functions comprise and the need for further equipment in this regard proved to be necessary.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

This study examines the question of whether the faith-estranged could be guided from their natural state of estrangement from God and resultant wounded ness since the Fall as well as subsequent wounds inflicted on earth due to traumatic events, by way of counseling and prayer into experiencing God's salvation in Christ. The section on basis theory has shown that a Biblical-pastoral anthropology is the foundation of Biblical pastorate. Man's estranged and wounded condition since the Fall and the resultant secondary wounding and suffering at the hand of fellow man on earth,presents the pastorate with a unique opportunity regarding the facilitation of and guiding towards both a spiritual and emotional healing process. This pastoral intervention addresses both primary and secondary wounded ness within the faith-estranged. The work of the Holy Spirit, confession of sin and guilt, prayer, forgiveness and faith, form part of the pastoral counseling process pointing towards salvation, healing and restored intimate communion with God. The meta-theoretical section brought to light the fact that the traumatized person is dealt not only a physical, cognitive and/or emotional wound but in fact also a spiritual wound by these events. A strong correlation was discovered between the healing of the body and the healing of the mind or spirit - in this regard forgiveness of the abuser, the self and of God (by implication a confession of personal rebellion) seemed to playa central role. It was also confirmed that an important link exists between, on the one hand, success in the therapeutic process with the wounded person, and on the other hand, the creation of a secure therapeutic environment, healthy relational structures as well as evoking hope in the heart of the counselee. The empirical section has proved to be of extreme importance regarding the distinctive role of the counselor in demonstrating God's closeness in Christ and His sharing in the pain of the counselee. The counselee does have an active role in this process of healing by accepting ownership of his future life choices and rational decisions. Perspectives derived from the sections of both basis theory and meta-theory has ultimately led to the formulation of a suitable practice theoretical model called Theo-phospromissio therapy. This model demonstrates the path along which there can be a pastoral engagement with the faith-estranged towards accepting God's redemption through Christ's finished work on the Cross. Furthermore, this model opens up a distinctive eschatological perspective on the final purpose of man's life on earth as it gives meaning to life here and now amidst seemingly unending life-crises and trauma, given the eternal hope it promises in God as the only secure anchor.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2010

This study deals with the pastoral counselling of elderly persons after the loss of a mature child by unnatural death. Such a traumatic event leaves a significant void in a person's life, who is already experiencing other losses, and is in the eve of their lives. With the death of a mature child, the natural order of life is turned around: the child who is supposed to live and financially and emotionally support the elderly, is no more, while they who's own passing away is imminent, are alive. Elderly parents in this position experience this situation as an existential conflict, because it is to them as if they are burying the future with their child. Because the death is one of a mature child, the elderly parent does not necessarily receive the appropriate recognition from society for the trauma they experience. To further complicate the issue is the fact that they are not usually the primary care receivers being guided along the path of mourning and acceptance - the focus, on the contrary, is usually upon the spouse and children of the deceased. In the section dealing with basis-theoretical research, it is evident that the exceptional empathy and sympathy of God for the parent who lost a child, is repeatedly stressed by Scripture. Because of Jesus Christ's victory on the cross and also His victory over death, there is the assurance of hope for eventual healing for the traumatized parent finding himself/herself in such a situation. From the section dealing with meta-theoretical research, it is evident that the death of a mature child is one of the most alarming and traumatic experiences any parent can go through. The process of mourning is however a natural reaction and differs from parent to parent, according to circumstances. Specific phases have been identified through which parents will go under these circumstances and it is therefore very important that both the pastoral counselor, as well as the parents, are aware of the pertinent aspects. In the section dealing with empirical research, use has been made of both qualitative and quantitative research methods. In the quantitative section, the results obtained from questionnaires handed to a significant number of elderly parents who have lost mature children, were processed. Thereafter, in the qualitative section of the research, in depth interviews were conducted with two sets of parents from the original group. It became evident that this process of discussion had a significant healing and therapeutic effect on parents dealing with the loss of a mature child. In the section dealing with the practice theoretical research, a model has been formulated by which pastoral counsellors and ministers can generally assist elderly parents after the death of a mature child.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.

This study deals with pastoral guidance for persons who, due to unresolved trauma, are often emotionally and spiritually wounded and consequently exhibit internalised lies. Some important questions relating to this theme put on the table here include the following: * What is the origin of an internalised lie? * What effect do these lies have on the life of the wounded person? * What is truth and how can it be discerned? * How can the wounded person be guided and protected in the renewal of his/her thinking? The basic–theoretical research shows that being emotionally wounded and the accompanying internalisation of lies usually take place during childhood. This is the period when the child does not have the verbal, emotional or spiritual competence to interpret correctly or assimilate trauma and the accompanying injury. Further it transpires that the emotionally wounded person is engaged in a daily struggle with Satan and that the struggle mainly lodges in his heart and thoughts, and is based on lies. From this section it is also clear that only truth can overcome the onslaught of Satan's misrepresentation and that the truth can only be reached in a relationship with Jesus Christ. The wounded person has the choice of whom to follow, Satan or Jesus. It is therefore essential for such a person to take up the daily responsibility for the renewal and control of his mind. For this the Lord provides special weapons with which the struggle for renewal of one?s thoughts can successfully be approached. Meta–theoretical research has shown that optimal brain functioning is of cardinal importance in the renewal of the mind since behaviour, personality, cognitive ability, emotions as well as thoughts all originate in the brain. The brain is the most complex organ in the human body and the way it functions affects a person?s choices, vision and personality as well as success or failure in life. In the case of a person manifesting broken relationships or compulsive behaviour patterns, it must first be ascertained whether the brain functions correctly before labelling the person with some or other abnormality. The study shows that the brain does have the ability to recover with the help of diet and exercise as well as attitude of mind. The empirical study involved six collaborators who had been exposed to inter–generative trauma and consequently had exhibited internalised lies. Information relevant to trauma, medical background, head injuries and the family of origin was collected and after being processed, was presented in a genogram. The structure and style of every family as well as the role of the particular respondent in every family was represented schematically and explained to the respondent. From the practical–theoretical section it clearly emerged that emotional and spiritual healing can only take place by means of God's Word and his truth. In this respect it is essential that the injured person should take daily responsibility regarding the renewal of his mind. After all, transformation is a process demanding patience and practice as well as faith in Christ and it is clear that there are no shortcuts to healing. To reach the necessary goals in this process an integrated holistic approach is necessary where the different neighbouring sciences are involved.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

Vooronderstellings by die Beradene - 'n Pastorale Studie is a doctoral dissertation which explores the proposition and find that identifying presuppositions ("core beliefs") and taking it into account enhances the effectiveness of the pastoral counselling process. The practical-theological model of Heitink is used as method to do research. It entails hermeneutical, empirical and strategic aspects: Hermeneutically 1. To show from Scripture some relevant perspectives on the research concept "presupposition", with the counselee in view. 2. To show from boarder sciences such as Philosophy and Psychology some relevant perspectives on the research concept "presupposition", with the counselee in view. Empirically 3. To determine if "presuppositions" play a role with counselees. Strategically 4. To formulate guidelines for effective counselling, identifying "presuppositions" of counselees and dealing with those "presuppositions". Given the understanding of "presupposition" as a belief that takes precedence over another and therefore serves as a criterion for another particular perspectives are shown from Scripture which narrow down basic concepts like "view of man", "perception" and "world and life view" pointing out that presuppositions of counselees should be taken into account. Jay Edward Adams's use of the word "presupposition" can be traced back via Cornelius van Til to the influential figure lmmanuel Kant. Van Til's use of the word is not the same as Adams though Adams associated himself with Van Til. Taking Idealism into account does not make Cornelius Van Til an Idealist. H.G. Stoker supplements Van Til's understanding and use of the word "presupposition". "Depth" and "coherence" come in this way to light with "symbiosis" regarding counselling. Aaron T. Beck's therapeutic model pertinently gives attention to and focuses upon the counselee, especially information processing by the counselee. Presuppositions ("core beliefs") can thus be clinically investigated, taken into account and be dealt with during counselling. An empirical investigation at Lydenburg, Mpumalanga, SA shows that the counselling process is definitely influenced by presuppositions of counsellees. It is therefore needed that counselling (by the Church) gives urgent and in-depth attention to presuppositions of counselees. From the classical reformed paradigm of doing theology Vooronderstellings by die Beradene - 'n Pastorale Studie formulates a therapeutic design called "Referential Therapy" and some preliminary guidelines to identify and deal with presuppositions of counselees.<br>Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2008.

Paramedics are exposed to high levels of stress and trauma in their working environment. Research has its focus on the coping mechanisms and trauma incidents escalating into Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. This study examines the paramedics’ working environment in relation to the help available, and suggests a pastoral counselling method which may be utilized as an effective method of assisting in the coping process and prevention of PTSD. Emergency Medical Services as a helping profession is mainly concerned with the welfare of their patients. This study has its focus on helping the helper, with the main focus on assisting the paramedic to cope with his working environment. Implications of the research include kerugmatik counselling and narrative therapy, incorporated in a pastoral counselling method to assist the paramedic with the healing process. The main findings were that stress and coping of the paramedic in his working environment was a reality which was often overlooked, as these paramedics had their focus on caring for their patients. In most cases there is help available, but the paramedic is hesitant to seek it out. Paramedics are mostly self-reliant in their coping mechanisms as their understanding and relationship with God and with the church had been damaged. The researcher followed the four tasks of practical theology as theoretical framework, as explained by Osmer: Descriptive-empirical Task – Priestly listening Interpretive Task – Sagely wisdom Normative Task – Prophetic discernment Pragmatic Task – Servant Leadership<br>Thesis (MA (Pastoral Studies))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

In this study a research is done on the pastoral counselling given to pre-adolescent secondary victims of trauma and crime in the age group (11-13 years). Certain concepts will be discussed which will be used as a framework for this study. The nature and effect of trauma on the pre-adolessent will be addressed pastoral-theologically. Theories that will be investigated as appropriate on the counselling of the pre-adolessent is narrative theory, Biblical counselling and Stone's crisis counselling. The manner in which assistance will be given through pastors and counsellors to the traumatised pre-adolescent will be investigated and discussed. The application of certain therapies like narrative therapy, children's drawings, and family drawings, children's drawings as projection-technique and children's drawings as diagnostic aid as well as the interpretation thereof will be explained according to a case study. The shortcomings of some of these approaches will be highlighted and application thereof will also be highlighted.<br>Philosophy, Practical & Systematic Theology<br>M. Th. (Practical Theology)

The focus of this study is on pastoral counselling and mentorship in the South African context and how it can contribute to the improvement of parent-child relationships. The Practical Theological model of Osmer is used as a framework in which the study is conducted. It consists of the Descriptive-empirical, Interpretative, Normative and Pragmatic tasks (which, for the purpose of the study, are called methods of approximation). In the first chapter the emphasis is on the way in which the study will be conducted with the aim of obtaining positive outcomes. This is also addressed in Chapter 2 by means of empiric research. Interviews are conducted with 24 participants that consist of parents and children. The aim of this is to determine how many problems really occur within families in a South African context. Many problems in this regard have come to light. The third chapter is mainly dedicated to a literature study that discusses the effect of positive and negative outcomes through the application of Biblical principles and mentorship within families. The effect of negative or positive parenthood is discussed as well as the effect it has on the child in his/her development process. Parents can learn many lessons from this chapter so that their children won’t have to grow up with emotional anguish. In the fourth chapter the theological aspects are discussed and proof is given for the value of these aspects as addressed by theological experts. Moral values, pastoral models, the value of the Holy Spirit and how God is portrayed are discussed here. These principles also contribute to happier families. In the fifth chapter attempts are made to find summarising solutions for this study’s initial problem statement, research question and central theoretical argument. Various results and conclusions can be made to find answers to the different key terms. Problem identification and problem solving techniques are discussed. A typical counselling session is held on the basis of a pastoral phase model in order to provide clarity to the solution of the abovementioned problems.<br>PhD (Pastoral Studies), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

It has been established that there is a deficit of research on the pastoral care of couples struggling with GRC (gender-role conflict). The focus of the study was to provide guidelines for the pastoral counsellor, so that he/she can apply effective marriage counselling to couples struggling with GRC. This is achieved by using Osmer’s four tasks of practical theology, namely: * The descriptive-empirical task – What is going on? * The interpretive task – Why is this going on? * The normative task – What ought to be going on? * The pragmatic task – How might we respond? The first task has been approached through empirical research with the aim to get an understanding of the participants’ experience regarding GRC in their marriages as well as their view of GRC. The empirical research was conducted by a qualitative research method using questionnaires (containing short and long questions) given to participants to answer. With the execution of this research, several aspects were identified that deserve further attention for the implementation of this study, namely: GRC result from a person’s involvement (or lack thereof) in a particular case, people’s reasons for the same GRC differ because of their experience of it, men and women experience GRC differently, people’s careers can be a determining factor of GRC, finance is the biggest GRC that people struggle with, people’s age and age differences may be linked to their experience of GRC and people are influenced by their parents. The second task has been approached through research especially in psychology, sociology and anthropology with the objective to further understand the issues that were raised in the previous chapter. Each of these issues are identified as a possible cause of GRC and discussed through various theories and research. The third task has been approached through exegesis of four pericopes with the aim to gain insight in connection with the Scripture’s perspective regarding the marriage relationship. A selection of 16 steps of Janse van Rensburg’s steps in conceiving a sermon is used to carry out the exegesis. The pericopes used for exegesis is the following: Genesis 1:26-31, 1 Corinthians 11:8-12, Galatians 3:26-29 and Ephesians 5:21-33. The fourth task has been approached by referring to certain counselling skills and guidelines with the aim to provide guidance in the pastoral counselling of couples struggling with GRC. All research done eventually leads to the point where certain strategies can be suggested for the pastoral counselling of couples struggling with GRC. The central theoretical argument of this study is partly met by acquiring an understanding of GRC, focusing on spiritual growth and ultimately making recommendations for effective pastoral counselling to couples, so that they can be guided to a better Christ-centered marriage.<br>MA (Pastoral Studies), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

The purpose of this research is to examine the possibilities of the Biblical narrative (Genesis 37·, 39-50 as the focus of this study) in therapy with children. A practical, reformed view of humans has been established, to give a clearer understanding of how Christian therapists view a child in therapy. The specific role of the therapist in the use of Narrative therapy was explored. Narrative therapy can be approach in two different ways: the use of the persons problem-oriented story, or the use of external narratives. Both uses have been discussed, combined and illustrated through the use of case studies. The story of Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-50) was selected for use in this studie. It has been studied in a context of Revelation history, while the case for the use of this narrative has been argued. The main reason being that Joseph seems to be an exceptional example of virtue for any person to follow. On the strenth of this study the author wishes to make the conclusive propositi·ons: Children with problems should not only be helped to cope with their problems, but should also be taught to build a relationship with God during the therapy proses. Since stories have been used through the ages to convey a spesific message (also by Jesus himself), this method could (and should) be employed while. working with children. The Christian therapist is priviledged to have the Word of God, written in narrative form, to utilize in practice.<br>Thesis (M.A.)--Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, 2001

Text in Afrikaans<br>I wanted to investigate the way people experienced confessional pastoral therapy by conducting a qualitative research study. The role of the pastor were examined as well as the effect of discourses of power and ethics in pastoral counseling. I interviewed clients who were counseled by pastors of the AFM Church (Apostolic Faith Mission). The research supposes that knowledge and power discourses have a major influence in pastoral counseling which is often not accounted for. I wanted to see how clients experienced the effects of these discourses of power and ethics. I furthermore wanted to see how these power discourses could result in clients feeling subordinate to the pastor and his knowledge and the effect that these feelings might have on them. The purpose of this study was not to generalize the experiences of the participants, but rather to set a contextual background of the experiences of power in confessional pastoral counseling.<br>Practical Theology<br>M. Th. (Pastorale Terapie)