Abstract
M.Ed.
This study investigates the process of structural family therapy with a family from a collective consciousness background. The aim was to explore, describe and explain key-elements that played a prominent part in the process.
The rationale for the investigation is derived from changes caused in the South African family by an evolving South African society. These changes influence the effective functioning of families with a collective consciousness regarding traditional social roles and the family's autocratic authority structure.
It is therefore imperative that psychologists will be able to adequately counsel these families. Minuchin's structural family therapy approach can address this problem, as its principles are congruent with the world view of collective consciousness. This model, developed in the United States of America, must be researched within the collective consciousness context. Such research will contribute to the adjustment of the approach in order for it to be legitimately used with families with collective consciousness.
The report of the study commences with a theoretical framework in which structural family therapy is explained. The development of family therapy, taking into consideration the relationship between family therapy and structural family therapy, is addressed. Basic principles and processes of structural family therapy are discussed. During these processes the family structure and patterns of interaction are explored and analysed. The family is encouraged to change dysfunctional patterns of interaction. The focus then moves to an overview of the South African family with collective consciousness. The family's particular world view with it's characteristics and difficulties are discussed.
The theoretical framework is complemented by a chapter on the design of the research, proving the rationale for the choice of format and methods of data collection and analysis. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive case study of a family with collective consciousness undergoing structural family therapy, was conducted for two months.
The establishment of a trust relationship and the exploration of the family structure were key issues. This was inhibited by language differences, participation of the family and ineffective translation, but was rectified by the culturally sensitive approach of the therapist and cooperation from the family. The use of metaphors, especially graphic and projective family drawings, use of space and concrete family sculpting contributed to problem exploration and the modification of dysfunctional interaction patterns.
The success of structural family therapy with a family of collective consciousness is indicated by the acceptance of the therapist as a confidant and friend of the family.
Finally, conclusions and recommendations were made regarding the use of structural family therapy with a family from a collective consciousness background.