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. / Thesis (M.A. (Practical Theology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:NWUBOLOKA1/oai:dspace.nwu.ac.za:10394/902 |
| Date | January 2005 |
| Creators | Hanekom, Albertus Johannes |
| Publisher | North-West University |
| Source Sets | North-West University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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