Recent research into the adolescent substance abuser has been motivated by the recognition that the successful rehabilitation of such persons may depend on the development of a positive self-concept. Literature dealing with the Gestalt Therapy, the Adolescent; Chemical Dependency, Addiction and Substance Abuse have been discussed. The various stages and elements of social development of the adolescent were discussed in order to determine whether there exists a correlation between a dysfunctional family life or “unfinished business” and the cause of substance abuse. The interviews conducted with thirteen (13) respondents, who were referred by the court and/or educational institutions, indicate that there is a definite connection between the poor self-concept of the adolescent substance abuser (based on previous traumatic experiences) and substance abuse. The research indicates that the majority of these adolescents choose to abuse substances for comfort – to compensate for the fragmentation in their lives. In accordance with the Gestalt Therapy which advocates an integration of the various elements of the self – a holistic view - the researcher found that it was possible to treat the addiction successfully if the adolescent could deal with the “unfinished business” in his/her past. Consequently, the final Chapter of this study sets out guidelines of the development of a therapeutic programme founded on principles of the Gestalt Therapy. / Dr. E. Oliphant Dr. W.J.H. Roestenburg
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:uj/uj:7411 |
| Date | 23 July 2008 |
| Creators | Gerber, Johanna Wilhelmina |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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