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.

Mussel populations diminished from freshwaters in Europe during the 20th century, both due to human harvest and hydropower constructions. Therefore, substantial efforts have been dedicated towards restoration and reintroduction operations. Nevertheless, few studies have assessed mussel behavior in response to substrate and within stream preferences, which makes reintroduction operations uncertain and short of scientific guidelines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of environmental factors for pearl mussel habitat selection and thus, provide knowledge that may make mussel introduction more successful. I investigated the behavior of freshwater pearl mussels (Margaritifera margaritifera) following introduction in a stream (Gäddbäcken) in Northern Sweden. Here, I used short behavioral trials and stream surveys to assess pearl mussel habitat preference (substrate, stream depth and water velocity) when introduced in novel environments. When comparing juvenile and adult pearl mussel behavior in my laboratory trials, I found that juvenile pearl mussels are more active (faster to do their first move) than adult mussels. In the within stream experiment, I found that there was a high correlation between water velocity and remaining pearl mussels, where mussels were more common in water with a velocity of 0.5 m/s than at lower velocities. Also, there was a positive correlation between water depth and remaining pearl mussels, where pearl mussels increased in abundance at depth over 0.3 m. My results suggesting that within stream conditions (water depth and stream velocity) can to a large part explain the pearl mussel presence at different localities in the stream. In other words, to increase the likelihood of successful introduction of pear mussels, my study indicate that individuals should be introduced to stream velocities of around 0.5 m/s and a water depth of 0.3 - 0.45 m.