A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Arts in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (Clinical Psychology) in the Department of Psychology at the University of Zululand, South Africa, 2015 / A novice therapist, by virtue of his or her professional status, is exposed, and often susceptible to a plethora of obstacles and challenges which stem from a variety of sources. These include deficits in clinical experience and reasoning, interpersonal conflicts, intrapsychic dynamics, as well as a multitude of other challenges which exist within the field of psychotherapy. Thus, this research investigation is rooted in fully exploring, understanding and verifying the most significant obstacles and challenges encountered by student and intern psychologists in the greater KwaZulu-Natal region. The uniqueness of the dynamics of the South African society must be highlighted, South Africa being a confluence of cultural, racial, traditional and social norms which add to the body of challenges and obstacles that the psychologist can be expected to encounter and negotiate. The major findings of this research investigation were that majority of the obstacles and challenges faced by student and intern psychologists are indeed linked to clinical inexperience and the chasm between theoretical academic knowledge and practical, clinical application needs to be bridged. Another facet of this investigation analysed the strategies, techniques and methods employed by the participants to overcome or minimise the impact of these obstacles.

Although the suicide literature is replete with studies approaching risk assessment from the standpoint of the external observer, research into the intrapsychic mechanisms involved is rare. This study investigated the importance of hope, threat, competence, succorance, helplessness, and control among inpatients hospitalized for suicidal behavior.

People with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) have a particular difficulty in forming and maintaining close relationships. The Relational Affective Model (Mizen, 2014) proposes that intimate relationships activate claustro-agoraphobic anxieties as the person alternately seeks and flees emotional closeness. The therapeutic relationship is a specialised kind of intimate relationship in which claustro-agoraphobic anxieties are likely to be activated in a process which psychoanalysis understands as transference. The understanding and working through of this transference is the mutative factor proposed in psychodynamic therapies. This study explored participants' mental representation of the internal psychic space of the other. Ten people with a diagnosis of BPD were asked to describe themselves and significant others, including their therapist in order to understand more about (1) their mental representations of the internal space of the other; (2) their relationship with their therapist with reference to internal space. and (3) the implications for the Relational Affective Model and clinical understanding of BPD. Using a mixed qualitative methodology four broad but distinct ways of describing internal space states emerged: positive, negative, nondescript and merged, which I have termed Alpha, Omega, Non-Alpha and Merged. Case study analyses for the four participants who provided interviews at the beginning and end of their treatment were conducted to attempt to highlight any changes in the internal space states identified. A thematic analysis of therapist descriptions indicated participants were positively engaged with their therapist. Negative internal space (Omega) descriptions of self and mother did not transfer to the relationship with the therapist in the early stages of therapy. The implications for the Relational Affective Model are considered.

Submitted by Filipe dos Santos (fsantos@pucsp.br) on 2016-09-22T18:32:05Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Sonia Thorstensen.pdf: 2050442 bytes, checksum: d0f9707a7511f422412093e4b8f5802e (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2016-09-22T18:32:06Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Sonia Thorstensen.pdf: 2050442 bytes, checksum: d0f9707a7511f422412093e4b8f5802e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2016-05-13 / The divergence between the frequency of sexual intercourse as desired by the husband in comparison with the frequency desired by his wife is the core motive of this research. Guided by the analyst’s “theoretical free associations” during the process of analyzing a clinical case, several psychical aspects concerning these questions arouse. The main focus was the complexity of the weaving of the intrasubjective aspects of each partner with the same aspects of the other, resulting in an interpersonal reality specific of that couple in question. Research in the psychoanalytic bibliography shows very few studies developed about marital sexual relations. With the increasing demand for couples and family therapies, this lack of knowledge has to be considered. Using a case history and some clinical fragments, and the psychoanalytical clinical method of research, intrapsychic and interpersonal aspects of that sexual discrepancy, as well as its complex and dynamic interrelationships are discussed in this thesis / Na tentativa de melhor compreender situações de desconforto conjugal causadas pela discrepância entre a frequência de atividade sexual desejada pelo marido, em comparação com a menor frequência desejada pela companheira, e tendo como fio condutor as “associações livres teóricas” da analista no acompanhamento de um caso clínico, foram abordados vários fenômenos psíquicos referentes a esse tema. Procuramos colocar em evidência a complexidade do enredamento das tramas intrasubjetivas de um parceiro com as do outro, resultando numa realidade interpessoal específica do casal em questão. Esta pesquisa teve origem na constatação de que, em atendimentos de casais e famílias, muito frequentemente surgiam queixas, mais ou menos veladas, sobre a insatisfação masculina quanto ao espaço que a vida em comum dispunha para os momentos de intimidade sexual do casal. No processo de busca de uma melhor compreensão dessa temática na literatura psicanalítica verificamos uma surpreendente lacuna de produções sobre a sexualidade conjugal na psicanálise contemporânea, dando ensejo a uma reflexão sobre as possíveis causas desse fato. Diante da crescente procura de atendimento clínico por casais e famílias, torna-se premente a necessidade de mais pesquisas e discussões nessa área. Baseando-nos no relato de um caso e em algumas vinhetas clínicas e utilizando o método clínico psicanalítico, procuramos evidenciar a necessidade de uma compreensão de fenômenos, tanto intrapsíquicos quanto interpessoais e, especialmente, seu complexo e dinâmico inter-relacionamento

Analysis of the secondary defensive mechanisms, considering psychoanalytic theories of a intrapsychic conflict, is the goal of this thesis. The thesis focuses on contemporary approaches and concepts to secondary defensive mechanisms with theoretical and observational point of view. Repression is considered to be the basis of the secondary defensive mechanisms. Afterwards the thesis focuses on work of Sigmund Freud with respect to his articulation of defense, repression and defensive mechanism in accordance with psychoanalytic theory of conflict, changing over time. Anna Freud and revision of structural model by Charles Brenner are also mentioned. The emphasis is put on conflicts of oedipal period with respect to research project. Afterwards the thesis focuses on attempts to experimentally demonstrate repression considering defects. The research project is the replication and relates to repression of incestuous story concerning grammar school students. Keywords defensive mechanisms, repression, defense, intrapsychic conflict, structural model, Oedipal complex

Studies of MHWs, (social workers, social auxiliary workers, trauma counsellors, and telephone counsellors), who work with trauma and stress, often focus on pathological symptoms and on the need to develop psycho-education programmes (Figley, 2002; Johnson & Hunter, 1997; Mac Ritchie & Leibowitz, 2010; Mikulincer, 1994; Stiles, 2002). A gap was identified how MHWs, who continuously intervene with traumatised children, cope with the stressors associated with their work. The purpose of this research was to explore the coping strategies of Mental Health Workers (MHWs) exposed to Secondary Trauma (ST)as a result of having to deal day to day with children (younger than 18) who have experienced trauma, including sexual, physical and emotional abuse, as well as the witness of violence. The MHWs’ coping responses were investigated using a qualitative case study approach. The investigation showed how MHWs constructed their realities by examining their coping strategies and the individual meanings they assigned to these. A convenience sample, based on the availability of participants, was selected. Nine women and one man, ranging in age from 26 to 57 years, employed at Childline Gauteng, participated in the research. The Mmogo-Method®, a projective visual research technique, explored the MHWs’ coping experiences through qualitative data collection methods. Visual and textual data were gathered and analysed thematically. It was found that the MHWs at Childline Gauteng displayed two main coping styles, namely intrapersonal and relational coping strategies. In the face of their daily stressors, MHWs managed to cope successfully by using strategies that are embedded in their daily activities. Their ability to find alternative ways to cope, despite continuous exposure to children’s trauma, allowed the MHWs to fulfil their work obligations. Their intrapersonal coping strategies reflected an ability to draw on their inner resources. Being aware of their environment and how it affects them, MHWs were able to regulate themselves and their environments by adopting positive attitudes. These attitudes, and the MHWs’ dispositions, positively affected their outlook on life. Moreover, MHWs maintained a healthy distance from their stressful environment by means of meaningful disengagement. Meaningful disengagement was fundamental to creating solitude as a coping strategy. Personal and professional boundaries, self-care and being able to draw on spirituality were further coping resources. MHWs’ discussions about finding meaning in their work revealed that they would not be able to do their work if they did not experience it as spiritually significant. Drawing on external resources, relational coping strategies included supportive relationships with family, friends and colleagues. Reciprocal unconditional acceptance significantly contributed to coping because it was important for MHWs to experience family and friends' attitudes as supportive and non-judgemental. MHWs encountered an organisational culture of care in the form of freedom to interact with colleagues and managers and sharing experiences. This interaction contributed to successful coping because MHWs felt comfort in the knowledge that they were not alone when dealing with children's trauma. This interaction facilitated coping because MHWs were able to interface successfully with their environment, even in difficult circumstances. In conclusion, the MHWs provided nuanced descriptions of the ways in which they experienced coping strategies. They coped with the demands of their profession by using internal and external resources, including intrapersonal and relational coping. / MA (Research Psychology), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

Studies of MHWs, (social workers, social auxiliary workers, trauma counsellors, and telephone counsellors), who work with trauma and stress, often focus on pathological symptoms and on the need to develop psycho-education programmes (Figley, 2002; Johnson & Hunter, 1997; Mac Ritchie & Leibowitz, 2010; Mikulincer, 1994; Stiles, 2002). A gap was identified how MHWs, who continuously intervene with traumatised children, cope with the stressors associated with their work. The purpose of this research was to explore the coping strategies of Mental Health Workers (MHWs) exposed to Secondary Trauma (ST)as a result of having to deal day to day with children (younger than 18) who have experienced trauma, including sexual, physical and emotional abuse, as well as the witness of violence. The MHWs’ coping responses were investigated using a qualitative case study approach. The investigation showed how MHWs constructed their realities by examining their coping strategies and the individual meanings they assigned to these. A convenience sample, based on the availability of participants, was selected. Nine women and one man, ranging in age from 26 to 57 years, employed at Childline Gauteng, participated in the research. The Mmogo-Method®, a projective visual research technique, explored the MHWs’ coping experiences through qualitative data collection methods. Visual and textual data were gathered and analysed thematically. It was found that the MHWs at Childline Gauteng displayed two main coping styles, namely intrapersonal and relational coping strategies. In the face of their daily stressors, MHWs managed to cope successfully by using strategies that are embedded in their daily activities. Their ability to find alternative ways to cope, despite continuous exposure to children’s trauma, allowed the MHWs to fulfil their work obligations. Their intrapersonal coping strategies reflected an ability to draw on their inner resources. Being aware of their environment and how it affects them, MHWs were able to regulate themselves and their environments by adopting positive attitudes. These attitudes, and the MHWs’ dispositions, positively affected their outlook on life. Moreover, MHWs maintained a healthy distance from their stressful environment by means of meaningful disengagement. Meaningful disengagement was fundamental to creating solitude as a coping strategy. Personal and professional boundaries, self-care and being able to draw on spirituality were further coping resources. MHWs’ discussions about finding meaning in their work revealed that they would not be able to do their work if they did not experience it as spiritually significant. Drawing on external resources, relational coping strategies included supportive relationships with family, friends and colleagues. Reciprocal unconditional acceptance significantly contributed to coping because it was important for MHWs to experience family and friends' attitudes as supportive and non-judgemental. MHWs encountered an organisational culture of care in the form of freedom to interact with colleagues and managers and sharing experiences. This interaction contributed to successful coping because MHWs felt comfort in the knowledge that they were not alone when dealing with children's trauma. This interaction facilitated coping because MHWs were able to interface successfully with their environment, even in difficult circumstances. In conclusion, the MHWs provided nuanced descriptions of the ways in which they experienced coping strategies. They coped with the demands of their profession by using internal and external resources, including intrapersonal and relational coping. / MA (Research Psychology), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

The purpose of this study was to discover and describe the structure and essential meaning of the experience of betrayal in intimate relationships. Previous and current research has directed much attention to the consequences and effects of betrayal in relationships, however the essential experience of the phenomenon of betrayal has received less attention. The experience of betrayal was approached from a Kleinian perspective. A review of the literature revealed that betrayal per se is less frequently found in psychological texts although extensive reference to the construct is found in the field of sociology, in texts on deviance (Ben-Yehuda, 2001). However, inherent aspects of the phenomenon may be recalled for the purposes of this study, notably trust and loyalty. Trust is considered to be an intrinsic variable in the phenomenon of betrayal. Loyalty appears to be an interchangeable variable and is briefly included in this study. Trust as a significant aspect in the establishment of human relationships was discussed with reference to relevant psychological paradigms. The bridge to Kleinian theory was formed using trust as a fundamental aspect of the primary mother-infant relationship. Further exploration of core Kleinian constructs and Klein’s developmental positions, were also integrated in elucidating the phenomenon of betrayal in intimate relationships. Being qualitative in nature, the experience of betrayal was explored using research principles of grounded theory (Strauss&Corbin, 1990/1998) for the purposes of data reduction, analysis and generation of theory. In addition, the qualitative research interview, proposed by Kvale (1996), was used to collect the data. In-depth interviews with five participants and a second interview with one of the participants were conducted. The participants were unknown to myself as the researcher, prior to commencing the study and they were formally approached by three fellow practising psychologists. Furthermore, the study of the experience of betrayal included verification of the transcribed interviews by the participants, prior to data reduction and analysis. In this manner, opportunities for further reflection and an enhanced understanding of the experience of betrayal were provided. The core category which emerges from this inquiry is a sense of alienation which individuals experience as a result of betrayal in intimate relationships. Therefore, contrary to Klein’s extensive emphasis on intrapsychic processes, the interpersonal nature of individuals cannot be excluded or underestimated. These findings specifically contribute to Kleinian theory, social psychology, sociology, theology and psychotherapy. In this study the participants’ experience of betrayal, the consequences for the participants themselves and the outcome of the relationships were addressed. Furthermore, the significance of cognitive processes in adulthood and the theoretical implications of the relational phenomenon of betrayal for further research were mentioned. Contributions to Klein’s theory as well as a critical review of the research methodology and a critique of the strengths and limitations of this study were also included. / Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2007. / Psychology / PhD / Unrestricted

In a study of psychological well-being, the researcher attempted to address the challenge of preventing mental illness and promoting mental health using an educational psychological perspective based on Unisa's Relations Theory. According to Relations Theory, humans are understood by the relationships they form. The intra-psychic interaction of the components of the intra-psychic structure (I/ego, self, identity and self-concept) is responsible for people's behaviour, with the essences (attachment of meaning, involvement, experience and self-actualising) and the prerequisites (the forming of relations , the life-world and climate) forming the basis of the structure. The researcher developed and administered a questionnaire on psychological well-being and conducted interviews, and on the basis of the findings reports that psychological well-being from an educational psychological perspective consists of a healthy and positive ego and self, clearly defined identities, positive thoughts and feelings, involvement in the life world, a positive and realistic self-concept and constructive self-talk, and self-realisation. / Educational Studies / M. Ed. (Guidance and Counselling)

Summaries in Afrikaans and English / The goal of this study is to understand the phenomenon of self mutilation by adolescents, with whom there is no developmental or mental barrier, from an educational-psychological perspective. A literature study was undertaken to investigate the nature, classification, causes and treatment of self mutilation, as well as the Educational Psychological Relations Theory. The self mutilation of adolescents was placed within the Educational Psychological Relations Theory framework. The research results showed that selfmutilation, with adolescents with whom there is no developmental or mental barrier, is a symptom of disharmonic intra- and interpsychic processes, as it is understood within the Educational Psychological Relations Theory. Self mutilation is used as a coping mechanism to regulate unpleasant emotional experiences. The empirical study also showed that an impoverished educational climate contributes to the development of self mutilation by adolescents. / Die doel van hierdie studie is om die verskynsel van selfmutilering by adolessente, by wie daar nie ontwikkelings- of geestesgestremdheid aanwesig is nie, vanuit 'n opvoedkundig-sielkundige perspektief te verstaan. Aan die hand van die literatuurstudie is die aard, klassifisering, oorsake en behandeling van selfmutilering, asook die Opvoedkundig-Sielkundige Relasieteorie verken. Die Opvoedkundig-Sielkundige Relasieteorie is as raamwerk gebruik waarbinne die verskynsel van selfmutilering by adolessente ondersoek is. Die navorsingsresultate het aan die lig gebring dat selfmutilering, by adolessente by wie daar nie geestes- of ontwikkelingsgestremdheid teenwoordig is nie, 'n simptoom is van disharmoniese intra- en interpsigiese gebeure soos dit verstaan word binne die Opvoedkundig-Sielkundige Relasieteorie. Selfmutilering word gebruik as 'n verdedigingsmeganisme waarmee onaangename belewinge gereguleer word. Die empiriese studie het ook getoon dat 'n onbevredigende opvoedingsklimaat 'n groot bydrae lewer tot die ontwikkeling van selfmutilering by adolessente. / Educational Studies / M. Ed. (with specialiation in Guidance and Counseling)