A programme of academic support for students at the public nursing college of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa
- Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Authors: Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Simulation methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10997 , vital:36128
- Description: A comprehensive academic support at the public nursing college is important. Despite this, there is no such support in public nursing colleges in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to develop an academic support programme for students in order to improve their success in Higher Education. The study endeavoured to answer the following questions: What are the academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for the academic support programme of students? What academic support programme can be developed for students at the public nursing college? What guidelines can be developed for implementation of academic support programme of students? The objectives were: to describe academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the eastern Cape Province of South Africa; to develop a conceptual framework for the academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa; to develop an academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape in south Africa and lastly to describe guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The research design used in this study was quantitative, qualitative, descriptive, evaluative, and theory generation. The study was conducted according to four phases. Phase one focussed on academic supports needs of the student. Phase two focussed on development of conceptual framework for the students at the public nursing college in Eastern Cape Province. Phase three focussed on the development of the academic support programme for the students, whereas phase four focussed on description of guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The population of the study consisted of students undergoing training in a four-year programme at the Public Nursing College. The target population was the students in the same programme from level one to level four of training. The sampling technique used was a probability sampling with multi-stage and cluster sampling techniques being utilized. The total sample was n=333 participants. A quantitative self-developed questionnaire was used to collect empirical data. The questionnaire consisted of eight sections. Descriptive data was analysed using Statistic Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the descriptive data collected in phase one. Concept analysis and identification were done through the utilisation of exploratory factor analysis. The conceptual framework for the academic support programme was identified through the analysed factors. Fifteen factors were derived from the descriptive data. The conceptual framework of the academic support programme discussed in Chapter 5 was used also in the development of the academic support programme. It is in this chapter that assumptions, context, stakeholders, process, outcome, dynamics and, lastly, the recipient were discussed, along with a description of the programme. The programme was evaluated in accordance with the criteria for programme evaluation. The recommendations brought forward for the academic support programme were: The guidelines have to be tested for the implementation of the programme; benchmarking should be done to compare with other institutions of higher learning regarding their academic support programmes; an academic brochure regarding academic support must be available in the college and should be given to students on arrival as part of a package; and neutral researcher should conduct the same research in the same college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Senti, Nomandithini Innocent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- Study and teaching Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Simulation methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10997 , vital:36128
- Description: A comprehensive academic support at the public nursing college is important. Despite this, there is no such support in public nursing colleges in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study was to develop an academic support programme for students in order to improve their success in Higher Education. The study endeavoured to answer the following questions: What are the academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for the academic support programme of students? What academic support programme can be developed for students at the public nursing college? What guidelines can be developed for implementation of academic support programme of students? The objectives were: to describe academic support needs of students at the public nursing college in the eastern Cape Province of South Africa; to develop a conceptual framework for the academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape of South Africa; to develop an academic support programme for students at the public nursing college in the Eastern Cape in south Africa and lastly to describe guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The research design used in this study was quantitative, qualitative, descriptive, evaluative, and theory generation. The study was conducted according to four phases. Phase one focussed on academic supports needs of the student. Phase two focussed on development of conceptual framework for the students at the public nursing college in Eastern Cape Province. Phase three focussed on the development of the academic support programme for the students, whereas phase four focussed on description of guidelines for implementation and evaluation of the academic support programme. The population of the study consisted of students undergoing training in a four-year programme at the Public Nursing College. The target population was the students in the same programme from level one to level four of training. The sampling technique used was a probability sampling with multi-stage and cluster sampling techniques being utilized. The total sample was n=333 participants. A quantitative self-developed questionnaire was used to collect empirical data. The questionnaire consisted of eight sections. Descriptive data was analysed using Statistic Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the descriptive data collected in phase one. Concept analysis and identification were done through the utilisation of exploratory factor analysis. The conceptual framework for the academic support programme was identified through the analysed factors. Fifteen factors were derived from the descriptive data. The conceptual framework of the academic support programme discussed in Chapter 5 was used also in the development of the academic support programme. It is in this chapter that assumptions, context, stakeholders, process, outcome, dynamics and, lastly, the recipient were discussed, along with a description of the programme. The programme was evaluated in accordance with the criteria for programme evaluation. The recommendations brought forward for the academic support programme were: The guidelines have to be tested for the implementation of the programme; benchmarking should be done to compare with other institutions of higher learning regarding their academic support programmes; an academic brochure regarding academic support must be available in the college and should be given to students on arrival as part of a package; and neutral researcher should conduct the same research in the same college.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A proposed baseline South African antimicrobial stewardship curriculum for the Bachelor of Pharmacy programme
- Authors: Khan, Yasmine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Pharmacy -- Practice -- South Africa Drug utilization -- Dissertations Drug utilization -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35752 , vital:33805
- Description: Antimicrobial stewardship refers to the healthcare practice which ensures the judicious and appropriate prescribing of antimicrobial agents. The primary purpose of antimicrobial stewardship entails minimising the progression of antimicrobial resistance; the rise of which is recognised as a threat to global health and safety. The pharmacist is recognised nationally and internationally as a key role player in the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship. Education of healthcare practitioners in antimicrobial stewardship is a recognised strategic enabler for the containment of antimicrobial resistance in South Africa. The primary aim of the study was to develop a proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum which is suitable for implementation into the Bachelor of Pharmacy programmes offered by South African schools of pharmacy. The aims and objectives of the study were achieved through the conduction of four study phases: the content analysis, academic review, expert consultation and curriculum development. The content analysis investigated the structure and content of international antimicrobial stewardship curricula, and the national policy governing antimicrobial stewardship implementation in South Africa. Frequency distributions of trends from the reviewed literature informed the development of the initial draft antimicrobial stewardship curriculum for pharmacy students. In terms of content, the principles which emerges with high frequency, which were thus emphasised in the initial draft curriculum, included: the strategic objectives (governance, surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention); strategic enablers (education, communication, legislation and research); dose optimisation; audit and feedback; formulary restriction; collaboration; pre-authorisation; and de-escalation. Available literature did not provide extensive detail regarding the curriculum structure utilised internationally, particularly with regards to the number of contact hours dedicated to the curriculum content and the year level at which antimicrobial stewardship was incorporated in the degree programme (variable between studies). From the content analysis it was evident that a mixed methods pedagogy and use of multiple assessment techniques were recommended. The academic review phase allowed for further insight to be obtained into the content and structure of antimicrobial stewardship curriculum content which was presented in the pre-existing Bachelor of Pharmacy degree programmes. Furthermore, the academic review required that nominated participants from each school of pharmacy indicate which antimicrobial prescribing principles should be incorporated in the proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The results of the academic review phase were collated with the content analysis in order to develop the updated draft antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. It was interesting to note that large variation in content and structure related to antimicrobial stewardship which was presented by the various schools of pharmacy in South Africa. In terms of curriculum content, recommendations made by academic professionals informed the development of relative importance groupings, which allowed for the various antimicrobial stewardship principles to be tiered according to importance for inclusion in the proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The large variation in antimicrobial stewardship curriculum structure posed as a challenge for the development of the proposed baseline curriculum, requiring that the structure remain flexible in order for feasible incorporation into the pre-existing Bachelor of Pharmacy degree programmes offered by the various schools of pharmacy in South Africa. The expert consultation phase explored the perceptions of multiple key health disciplines who serve as part of antimicrobial stewardship teams in South Africa with regards to the role of the pharmacist in antimicrobial stewardship; and the minimum level of antimicrobial stewardship knowledge and skills which pharmacy students should possess prior to entry into practice. The results of the expert consultation phase were collated with the results of the content analysis and academic review phase in order to develop the final proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The findings of the expert consultation phase indicated great variability regarding the perceived role of the pharmacist in antimicrobial stewardship within and between health disciplines. Furthermore, the relative perceived importance of various antimicrobial stewardship strategies and antimicrobial prescribing principles were explored, which informed the tiering of content in the final proposed antimicrobial stewardship curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Khan, Yasmine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pharmacy -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Pharmacy -- Practice -- South Africa Drug utilization -- Dissertations Drug utilization -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35752 , vital:33805
- Description: Antimicrobial stewardship refers to the healthcare practice which ensures the judicious and appropriate prescribing of antimicrobial agents. The primary purpose of antimicrobial stewardship entails minimising the progression of antimicrobial resistance; the rise of which is recognised as a threat to global health and safety. The pharmacist is recognised nationally and internationally as a key role player in the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship. Education of healthcare practitioners in antimicrobial stewardship is a recognised strategic enabler for the containment of antimicrobial resistance in South Africa. The primary aim of the study was to develop a proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum which is suitable for implementation into the Bachelor of Pharmacy programmes offered by South African schools of pharmacy. The aims and objectives of the study were achieved through the conduction of four study phases: the content analysis, academic review, expert consultation and curriculum development. The content analysis investigated the structure and content of international antimicrobial stewardship curricula, and the national policy governing antimicrobial stewardship implementation in South Africa. Frequency distributions of trends from the reviewed literature informed the development of the initial draft antimicrobial stewardship curriculum for pharmacy students. In terms of content, the principles which emerges with high frequency, which were thus emphasised in the initial draft curriculum, included: the strategic objectives (governance, surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention); strategic enablers (education, communication, legislation and research); dose optimisation; audit and feedback; formulary restriction; collaboration; pre-authorisation; and de-escalation. Available literature did not provide extensive detail regarding the curriculum structure utilised internationally, particularly with regards to the number of contact hours dedicated to the curriculum content and the year level at which antimicrobial stewardship was incorporated in the degree programme (variable between studies). From the content analysis it was evident that a mixed methods pedagogy and use of multiple assessment techniques were recommended. The academic review phase allowed for further insight to be obtained into the content and structure of antimicrobial stewardship curriculum content which was presented in the pre-existing Bachelor of Pharmacy degree programmes. Furthermore, the academic review required that nominated participants from each school of pharmacy indicate which antimicrobial prescribing principles should be incorporated in the proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The results of the academic review phase were collated with the content analysis in order to develop the updated draft antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. It was interesting to note that large variation in content and structure related to antimicrobial stewardship which was presented by the various schools of pharmacy in South Africa. In terms of curriculum content, recommendations made by academic professionals informed the development of relative importance groupings, which allowed for the various antimicrobial stewardship principles to be tiered according to importance for inclusion in the proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The large variation in antimicrobial stewardship curriculum structure posed as a challenge for the development of the proposed baseline curriculum, requiring that the structure remain flexible in order for feasible incorporation into the pre-existing Bachelor of Pharmacy degree programmes offered by the various schools of pharmacy in South Africa. The expert consultation phase explored the perceptions of multiple key health disciplines who serve as part of antimicrobial stewardship teams in South Africa with regards to the role of the pharmacist in antimicrobial stewardship; and the minimum level of antimicrobial stewardship knowledge and skills which pharmacy students should possess prior to entry into practice. The results of the expert consultation phase were collated with the results of the content analysis and academic review phase in order to develop the final proposed baseline antimicrobial stewardship curriculum. The findings of the expert consultation phase indicated great variability regarding the perceived role of the pharmacist in antimicrobial stewardship within and between health disciplines. Furthermore, the relative perceived importance of various antimicrobial stewardship strategies and antimicrobial prescribing principles were explored, which informed the tiering of content in the final proposed antimicrobial stewardship curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A psycho-educational programme to facilitate the mental health of adolescent girls who are victims of verbal bullying
- Authors: Jacobs, Ruwayda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Psychoanalysis , Bullying
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9946 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014579
- Description: Bullying appears to be a worldwide phenomenon. It occurs within schools, homes, and in the community too. Bullying is a form of aggressive behaviour. Female bullying is not so easily noticed, as girls hardly ever use physical forms of aggression. Bullying can have a detrimental effect on the mental health of the victim. The victims of bullying experience symptoms of mental discomfort, which include low self esteem, feelings of helplessness, feelings of worthlessness and inferiority, lack of confidence, isolation, self-conscientiousness; and lastly, this can lead to suicide. Some form of intervention is necessary to provide adolescents with skills to combat bullying and help them to become mentally healthy again. The overall goal of the study was to develop, implement and evaluate a psycho-educational programme for female adolescents in a secondary school setting, in order to assist them in coping with bullying. The objectives of the research study were to: Conduct asituational analysis to identify the mental health needs of adolescent girls, as victimsof bullying. Develop a psycho-educational programme to facilitate the promotion of mental health of those adolescent girls who are victims of bullying. Implement the psycho-educational programme to facilitate coping by adolescent girls who are victims of bullying. Assess whether the adolescent girls have benefitted from attending the psycho-educational programme. The researcher used a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The research methodology consisted of four phases. In phase one of the research, a situational analysis was done; and the characteristics of mental discomfort exhibited by the victim were identified. The needs of the adolescent girl who has been bullied have already been described. Phase two involved the development of a psycho-educational programme. The information from the situational analysis was used to develop the conceptual framework. The six concepts in the survey list of Dickoff et al. (1968:422) were described as follows: the recipient is the adolescent girl who has been bullied, the agent is an advanced psychiatric nurse, the context is the community and the secondary school where bullying takes place, the dynamics of the intervention constitute the mental discomfort experienced by the adolescent girl. This is what motivates her to participate in the programme. The procedure was identified as the psycho-educational programme, while the terminus or outcome of the intervention for the adolescent girl would be for her to experience mental health after being exposed to the psycho-educational programme. The relationship between the concepts was used to form the mind map of the conceptual framework. This guided the development of the psycho-educational programme. The content of the programme has already been described. In phase three the psycho-educational programme is implemented and in phase four the programme is evaluated. The psycho-educational programme taught the teenage girls skills and it provided them with knowledge to cope better with the bullying. Attending the programme made the teenagers aware that they needed to change to experience mental health and happiness. The empirical study took place in phase four. The data-gathering method in phase four included the conducting of semi-structured interviews with the adolescent girls who participated in the programme, as well as the teachers of these adolescent girls and their parents. Naïve sketches, reflective journals, observations made and field notes formed part of this database. The data was analyzed by means of Tesch‟s descriptive analysis (in Creswell, 2003:192). The participants had to comment on how they were coping after the implementation of the psycho-educational programme. In conclusion, an intervention in the form of the psycho-educational programme was shown to be beneficial to adolescent girls who were victims of bullying, to assist them in coping with the aftermath of being bullied. Recommendations were made to enhance nursing practice, as well as nursing education and nursing research. Keywords: Adolescent girls, bullying, secondary schools, advanced psychiatric nurse, psycho-educational programme, mental health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Jacobs, Ruwayda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teenage girls -- Mental health -- South Africa , Psychoanalysis , Bullying
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9946 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014579
- Description: Bullying appears to be a worldwide phenomenon. It occurs within schools, homes, and in the community too. Bullying is a form of aggressive behaviour. Female bullying is not so easily noticed, as girls hardly ever use physical forms of aggression. Bullying can have a detrimental effect on the mental health of the victim. The victims of bullying experience symptoms of mental discomfort, which include low self esteem, feelings of helplessness, feelings of worthlessness and inferiority, lack of confidence, isolation, self-conscientiousness; and lastly, this can lead to suicide. Some form of intervention is necessary to provide adolescents with skills to combat bullying and help them to become mentally healthy again. The overall goal of the study was to develop, implement and evaluate a psycho-educational programme for female adolescents in a secondary school setting, in order to assist them in coping with bullying. The objectives of the research study were to: Conduct asituational analysis to identify the mental health needs of adolescent girls, as victimsof bullying. Develop a psycho-educational programme to facilitate the promotion of mental health of those adolescent girls who are victims of bullying. Implement the psycho-educational programme to facilitate coping by adolescent girls who are victims of bullying. Assess whether the adolescent girls have benefitted from attending the psycho-educational programme. The researcher used a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The research methodology consisted of four phases. In phase one of the research, a situational analysis was done; and the characteristics of mental discomfort exhibited by the victim were identified. The needs of the adolescent girl who has been bullied have already been described. Phase two involved the development of a psycho-educational programme. The information from the situational analysis was used to develop the conceptual framework. The six concepts in the survey list of Dickoff et al. (1968:422) were described as follows: the recipient is the adolescent girl who has been bullied, the agent is an advanced psychiatric nurse, the context is the community and the secondary school where bullying takes place, the dynamics of the intervention constitute the mental discomfort experienced by the adolescent girl. This is what motivates her to participate in the programme. The procedure was identified as the psycho-educational programme, while the terminus or outcome of the intervention for the adolescent girl would be for her to experience mental health after being exposed to the psycho-educational programme. The relationship between the concepts was used to form the mind map of the conceptual framework. This guided the development of the psycho-educational programme. The content of the programme has already been described. In phase three the psycho-educational programme is implemented and in phase four the programme is evaluated. The psycho-educational programme taught the teenage girls skills and it provided them with knowledge to cope better with the bullying. Attending the programme made the teenagers aware that they needed to change to experience mental health and happiness. The empirical study took place in phase four. The data-gathering method in phase four included the conducting of semi-structured interviews with the adolescent girls who participated in the programme, as well as the teachers of these adolescent girls and their parents. Naïve sketches, reflective journals, observations made and field notes formed part of this database. The data was analyzed by means of Tesch‟s descriptive analysis (in Creswell, 2003:192). The participants had to comment on how they were coping after the implementation of the psycho-educational programme. In conclusion, an intervention in the form of the psycho-educational programme was shown to be beneficial to adolescent girls who were victims of bullying, to assist them in coping with the aftermath of being bullied. Recommendations were made to enhance nursing practice, as well as nursing education and nursing research. Keywords: Adolescent girls, bullying, secondary schools, advanced psychiatric nurse, psycho-educational programme, mental health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A psychobiographical case study: Amelia Dyer in a search for glory
- Authors: April, Heather
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Serial murderers--Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50857 , vital:43008
- Description: The study is a psychobiographical case study based on the life of a Victorian baby farmer Amelia Dyer (1837-1896). She was executed for the murder of babies who were placed in her care over a period of 30 years. Psychobiography is a qualitative method of enquiry which explores the life of a unique individual subject through the lens of a psychological theory for the purpose of creating a coherent psychological case study. The psychoanalytic theoretical lens of Karen Horney was used to trace the evolution of Amelia Dyer’s sense of self within the Victorian culture of respectability. Baby farming referred to an unregulated business of adoption and fostering of infants, mostly illegitimate infants for a fee. Insufficient social structures and support for unwed mothers and children encouraged the business practice as women had very little choice for childcare. Baby farming was open to abuse and exploitation and hundreds of babies lost their lives due to insufficient care or infanticide. Amelia Dyer showed special talents and creativity from a young age, was ambitious and wanted to be self-reliant in a culture that did not provide women with opportunities to live out their ambitions. Baby farming became a business venture for her in the early stages of her life which later evolved into sadistic abuse and murder of the infants. Her evolution from a creative and hardworking young girl to a sadistic murderer of children is what qualifies her as a suitable subject for the exploration of Karen Horney’s dynamic theory of neuroses and the development of the neurotic self within culture. Extensive biographical data was collected and processed into salient themes. The study integrates the theory of Karen Horney, the life experiences of Amelia Dyer and Victorian respectability and demonstrates the value of using psychobiography as the method of inquiry into the exploration of the unique individual. The findings of the study demonstrated that Amelia Dyer and her social context were inextricably bound by a vicious cycle of psychic and emotional vi conflicts related to fear, control and self-hatred by the internalization of gender stereotypes and norms. The contribution of the study as a whole rests with its demonstration of the value of a holistic and reflexive exploration of the unique individual woman. It demonstrates the value of Horney’s in-depth theoretical understanding of the ambivalent core of selfhood that lies behind observable acts of behavior. The study as a whole contributes towards building upon holistic and integrative therapeutic frameworks in the understanding of diversity amongst women and mothers in culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: April, Heather
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Serial murderers--Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50857 , vital:43008
- Description: The study is a psychobiographical case study based on the life of a Victorian baby farmer Amelia Dyer (1837-1896). She was executed for the murder of babies who were placed in her care over a period of 30 years. Psychobiography is a qualitative method of enquiry which explores the life of a unique individual subject through the lens of a psychological theory for the purpose of creating a coherent psychological case study. The psychoanalytic theoretical lens of Karen Horney was used to trace the evolution of Amelia Dyer’s sense of self within the Victorian culture of respectability. Baby farming referred to an unregulated business of adoption and fostering of infants, mostly illegitimate infants for a fee. Insufficient social structures and support for unwed mothers and children encouraged the business practice as women had very little choice for childcare. Baby farming was open to abuse and exploitation and hundreds of babies lost their lives due to insufficient care or infanticide. Amelia Dyer showed special talents and creativity from a young age, was ambitious and wanted to be self-reliant in a culture that did not provide women with opportunities to live out their ambitions. Baby farming became a business venture for her in the early stages of her life which later evolved into sadistic abuse and murder of the infants. Her evolution from a creative and hardworking young girl to a sadistic murderer of children is what qualifies her as a suitable subject for the exploration of Karen Horney’s dynamic theory of neuroses and the development of the neurotic self within culture. Extensive biographical data was collected and processed into salient themes. The study integrates the theory of Karen Horney, the life experiences of Amelia Dyer and Victorian respectability and demonstrates the value of using psychobiography as the method of inquiry into the exploration of the unique individual. The findings of the study demonstrated that Amelia Dyer and her social context were inextricably bound by a vicious cycle of psychic and emotional vi conflicts related to fear, control and self-hatred by the internalization of gender stereotypes and norms. The contribution of the study as a whole rests with its demonstration of the value of a holistic and reflexive exploration of the unique individual woman. It demonstrates the value of Horney’s in-depth theoretical understanding of the ambivalent core of selfhood that lies behind observable acts of behavior. The study as a whole contributes towards building upon holistic and integrative therapeutic frameworks in the understanding of diversity amongst women and mothers in culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Psychobiographical Study of Charles Manson
- Authors: Flatela, Sambesiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Personality development -- Psychological aspects , Criminals -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51021 , vital:43201
- Description: Charles Manson was notorious for his antisocial behaviour and influence; through his charisma, he formed a group of followers known as the Manson family. Manson and his followers became involved in various criminal activities which culminated in the murder of 7 people. These murders were not committed by Manson per say, but he planned them, and incited his followers to commit them; this resulted in a trial and Manson going to prison, being given a life sentence. He continued to influence people while he served his sentence in prison. Manson died of natural causes in November 2017. The research study explores and describes the life of Manson in the form of a psychobiography. The aim of the study was to gain insight into the personality development of Charles Manson. This was achieved by applying Otto Kernberg’s Object Relations Theory to Manson’s known life experiences. Various data was collected and triangulated, using primary and secondary sources. Miles, Huberman, and Saldana’s (2013) three step procedure was used to analyse the data. The findings highlight the influence of genetics and rejection as pivotal to the unfolding of Manson’s personality, and provide insight into how his antisocial patterns unfolded. They highlight, in particular, his use of control, dominance and devaluation to protect his positive experience of self. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Flatela, Sambesiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods , Personality development -- Psychological aspects , Criminals -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51021 , vital:43201
- Description: Charles Manson was notorious for his antisocial behaviour and influence; through his charisma, he formed a group of followers known as the Manson family. Manson and his followers became involved in various criminal activities which culminated in the murder of 7 people. These murders were not committed by Manson per say, but he planned them, and incited his followers to commit them; this resulted in a trial and Manson going to prison, being given a life sentence. He continued to influence people while he served his sentence in prison. Manson died of natural causes in November 2017. The research study explores and describes the life of Manson in the form of a psychobiography. The aim of the study was to gain insight into the personality development of Charles Manson. This was achieved by applying Otto Kernberg’s Object Relations Theory to Manson’s known life experiences. Various data was collected and triangulated, using primary and secondary sources. Miles, Huberman, and Saldana’s (2013) three step procedure was used to analyse the data. The findings highlight the influence of genetics and rejection as pivotal to the unfolding of Manson’s personality, and provide insight into how his antisocial patterns unfolded. They highlight, in particular, his use of control, dominance and devaluation to protect his positive experience of self. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A psychobiographical study of Christiaan Neethling Barnard
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Barnard, Christiaan, 1922-2001 , Surgeons -- South Africa -- Biography , Self-actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7836 , vital:24310
- Description: Dr. Christiaan Neethling Barnard (Barnard) was a world renowned surgeon who made medical history when he performed the world’s first human heart transplant. Barnard was celebrated by some for his courage and contribution in advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery, while others believed that the technique of human heart transplantation was not his own. Barnard became known for his controversial lifestyle, and acquired a reputation as a playboy. He died in 2001 at the age of 78, following an asthma attack. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Barnard, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology to the context of his lived life. The study used a single case study research design, and purposive sampling was used to select the subject. This selection was made on the basis of the researcher’s interest in Barnard’s life history and his immense contribution to medical science. Data sampled was qualitative, and was collected from primary and secondary data sources. Collected data was analysed in accordance with Alexander’s model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Barnard’s life was in many respects aligned with Adler’s theory and that his striving for significance was largely influenced by his social environment as well as the cultural context in which he lived.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Barnard, Christiaan, 1922-2001 , Surgeons -- South Africa -- Biography , Self-actualization (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7836 , vital:24310
- Description: Dr. Christiaan Neethling Barnard (Barnard) was a world renowned surgeon who made medical history when he performed the world’s first human heart transplant. Barnard was celebrated by some for his courage and contribution in advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery, while others believed that the technique of human heart transplantation was not his own. Barnard became known for his controversial lifestyle, and acquired a reputation as a playboy. He died in 2001 at the age of 78, following an asthma attack. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Barnard, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology to the context of his lived life. The study used a single case study research design, and purposive sampling was used to select the subject. This selection was made on the basis of the researcher’s interest in Barnard’s life history and his immense contribution to medical science. Data sampled was qualitative, and was collected from primary and secondary data sources. Collected data was analysed in accordance with Alexander’s model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Barnard’s life was in many respects aligned with Adler’s theory and that his striving for significance was largely influenced by his social environment as well as the cultural context in which he lived.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of Ellen Kuzwayo
- Authors: Arosi, Ziyanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008658 , Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Description: The current study is a psychobiography. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this woman had within her society. Ellen Kuzwayo also meets the requirements of a psychobiography in that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study applies a qualitative research method in the form of a psychobiography, which aimed to describe Ellen Kuzwayo`s life accordingto Daniel Levinson`s Life Structure Theory of Adult Development. Levinson`s theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development. Levinson`s theory was chosenbecause it is specifically relevant to the development of women. The findings of the study indicate that Kuzwayo’s life was consistent with the pattern of development which Levinson (1996) identified. Kuzwayo was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory to investigate a particular human life. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations are offered in order to extend psychobiographical research on the life of Ellen Kuzwayo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Arosi, Ziyanda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008658 , Kuzwayo, Ellen , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Life cycle, Human , Women, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions
- Description: The current study is a psychobiography. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this woman had within her society. Ellen Kuzwayo also meets the requirements of a psychobiography in that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study applies a qualitative research method in the form of a psychobiography, which aimed to describe Ellen Kuzwayo`s life accordingto Daniel Levinson`s Life Structure Theory of Adult Development. Levinson`s theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development. Levinson`s theory was chosenbecause it is specifically relevant to the development of women. The findings of the study indicate that Kuzwayo’s life was consistent with the pattern of development which Levinson (1996) identified. Kuzwayo was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory to investigate a particular human life. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations are offered in order to extend psychobiographical research on the life of Ellen Kuzwayo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A psychobiographical study of Gavin Maxwell: a Kernberg object relations approach
- Authors: Walters, Jacqueline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Personality development -- Psychological aspects , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52363 , vital:43619
- Description: Gavin Maxwell was an author and naturalist. He published a memoir called A Ring of Bright Water, which shaped the way millions of readers viewed nature. Maxwell wrote simple prose which paints an idyllic and moving picture of his time spent in his “lost paradise”, alongside his beloved animals, most notably his otters. However, in reality Maxwell was a man in conflict, seen in volatile relationships, financial recklessness, and the preference for the company of animals over people. The aim of this study was to explore Maxwell’s life to gain insight into his personality development. This was achieved by applying Otto Kernberg’s Object Relations Theory to his life experiences. In doing so the author hoped to gain an understanding of the personality dynamics that led to Maxwell’s relational difficulties and eccentricities. Data was collected by triangulating multiple sources of information on his life. Miles and Huberman’s (1994) three step approach was used to analyse data collected. These steps are: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The research study found that Maxwell’s personality development was likely arrested at the third stage of Kernberg’s model. Maxwell relied primarily on immature defence mechanisms based in splitting and possessed a fragile ego structure which he protected through grandiosity. The findings indicated that Maxwell’s personality falls in the borderline level of functioning with a strong likelihood of pathological narcissism. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Walters, Jacqueline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Personality development -- Psychological aspects , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52363 , vital:43619
- Description: Gavin Maxwell was an author and naturalist. He published a memoir called A Ring of Bright Water, which shaped the way millions of readers viewed nature. Maxwell wrote simple prose which paints an idyllic and moving picture of his time spent in his “lost paradise”, alongside his beloved animals, most notably his otters. However, in reality Maxwell was a man in conflict, seen in volatile relationships, financial recklessness, and the preference for the company of animals over people. The aim of this study was to explore Maxwell’s life to gain insight into his personality development. This was achieved by applying Otto Kernberg’s Object Relations Theory to his life experiences. In doing so the author hoped to gain an understanding of the personality dynamics that led to Maxwell’s relational difficulties and eccentricities. Data was collected by triangulating multiple sources of information on his life. Miles and Huberman’s (1994) three step approach was used to analyse data collected. These steps are: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The research study found that Maxwell’s personality development was likely arrested at the third stage of Kernberg’s model. Maxwell relied primarily on immature defence mechanisms based in splitting and possessed a fragile ego structure which he protected through grandiosity. The findings indicated that Maxwell’s personality falls in the borderline level of functioning with a strong likelihood of pathological narcissism. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A psychobiographical study of Harvey Milk
- Authors: Pretorius, Neil Zietsman
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gay rights , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51600 , vital:43321
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore and describe Harvey Milk’s identity development and performance from the theoretical perspective of Narrative Therapy. Harvey (1930-1978), was an American Gay Rights activist who became one of the first openly gay political candidates to be elected to public office in the United States in 1977, before being assassinated in 1978. The study was conducted within a postmodern Social Constructionist epistemology which applied Michael White and David Epston’s (1990) Narrative Therapy as a particular theoretical lens to understand Harvey’s lived experiences. Harvey was chosen as the research subject based on his ability to construct his public identity as an openly gay politician and activist in defiance of the contemporarily dominant heteronormative discourse, despite the danger this posed to his personal safety. His selection was made through purposive sampling which facilitated a qualitative, single case psychobiographical study. Data on Harvey was obtained from both primary and secondary sources available in the public domain, and was analysed using Narrative Therapy concepts that describe individual identity. The study’s findings detail the narrative processes Harvey underwent and the discursive influences he experienced to move from being a closeted gay man, who hid his sexuality from public view, to an openly gay trailblazing Gay Rights activist, who fiercely challenged the norms and effects of heteronormativity on both his own life and that of his gay community. The study emphasises the value of psychobiography and Narrative Therapy to understand individual identity construction and performance. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pretorius, Neil Zietsman
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gay rights , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51600 , vital:43321
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore and describe Harvey Milk’s identity development and performance from the theoretical perspective of Narrative Therapy. Harvey (1930-1978), was an American Gay Rights activist who became one of the first openly gay political candidates to be elected to public office in the United States in 1977, before being assassinated in 1978. The study was conducted within a postmodern Social Constructionist epistemology which applied Michael White and David Epston’s (1990) Narrative Therapy as a particular theoretical lens to understand Harvey’s lived experiences. Harvey was chosen as the research subject based on his ability to construct his public identity as an openly gay politician and activist in defiance of the contemporarily dominant heteronormative discourse, despite the danger this posed to his personal safety. His selection was made through purposive sampling which facilitated a qualitative, single case psychobiographical study. Data on Harvey was obtained from both primary and secondary sources available in the public domain, and was analysed using Narrative Therapy concepts that describe individual identity. The study’s findings detail the narrative processes Harvey underwent and the discursive influences he experienced to move from being a closeted gay man, who hid his sexuality from public view, to an openly gay trailblazing Gay Rights activist, who fiercely challenged the norms and effects of heteronormativity on both his own life and that of his gay community. The study emphasises the value of psychobiography and Narrative Therapy to understand individual identity construction and performance. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A psychobiographical study of Helen Keller
- Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Authors: Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1101 , Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Description: This psychobiographical study of Helen Keller’s life is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling. The choice was based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this profoundly handicapped woman had within her society. Helen Keller also meets the psychobiographical requirements. These include that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study uses a qualitative, single case, interpretive research design. The design is employed to study Helen Keller’s entire life span within a formal psychological theory. The theory used in this study is Daniel Levinson’s (1996) Life Structure theory of adult development. Data for this study were collected from a variety of primary and secondary sources which provided alternative perspectives on her life. In addition, the data have been corroborated by historical texts, and newspaper and journal articles. Levinson’s (1996) theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development, each with particular developmental tasks. Cross-era transitions separate the eras. By describing and exploring the data according to this theory, Helen Keller as a profoundly handicapped person is shown to display universal patterns of development as suggested by Levinson. At the same time, the Life Structure she developed, her life components, and Satisfactoriness illuminated her uniqueness. Through the application of the theory to Helen Keller’s life, this psychobiographical study facilitated an examination of the theory. This led to suggestions for potential development of the theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Van Genechten, Désirée Martina
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9897 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1101 , Keller, Helen, 1880-1968 , Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects , Deafblind people
- Description: This psychobiographical study of Helen Keller’s life is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling. The choice was based on the researcher’s personal interest and the remarkable impact this profoundly handicapped woman had within her society. Helen Keller also meets the psychobiographical requirements. These include that she is historically well known, inspirational, and her life has been completed. The study uses a qualitative, single case, interpretive research design. The design is employed to study Helen Keller’s entire life span within a formal psychological theory. The theory used in this study is Daniel Levinson’s (1996) Life Structure theory of adult development. Data for this study were collected from a variety of primary and secondary sources which provided alternative perspectives on her life. In addition, the data have been corroborated by historical texts, and newspaper and journal articles. Levinson’s (1996) theory divides the lifespan into four developmental eras, each with its own biopsychosocial character. Each era in turn is divided into shorter periods of development, each with particular developmental tasks. Cross-era transitions separate the eras. By describing and exploring the data according to this theory, Helen Keller as a profoundly handicapped person is shown to display universal patterns of development as suggested by Levinson. At the same time, the Life Structure she developed, her life components, and Satisfactoriness illuminated her uniqueness. Through the application of the theory to Helen Keller’s life, this psychobiographical study facilitated an examination of the theory. This led to suggestions for potential development of the theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A psychobiographical study of Isie Smuts
- Authors: Smuts, Carisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/894 , Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Description: Psychobiographical research, with the use of psychological theory, allows us to uncover and unravel the life of an individual. This important area of research for the application of a psychological theory has, however, been under-utilized, especially in South Africa. The importance of psychobiographical case study research for the development and testing of theories of human development throughout the lifespan, has been supported by a number of academics in the field. The research subject was Sibella Margaretha (Isie) Krige. Isie (1870-1954) was married to General Jan Christiaan Smuts (1870-1950). He was a prominent South African and Commonwealth statesman, military leader, botanist and philosopher. Although much has been written on General Smuts, a psychobiography on the life of Isie had not been written yet. Isie was chosen as the research subject through purposive sampling. The study employed a qualitative psychobiographical research method, which aimed to explore and describe Isie’s psychological development in terms of Daniel Levinson’s (1996) theory of the Human Life Cycle. Collected data were analysed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’ (2000) approach. It integrated three sub-processes, namely data reduction, data display, as well as the drawing of conclusions and verification. The findings of the study indicate that Isie’s life was consistent with the pattern which Levinson (1996) identified. Isie was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. The findings of the study also indicated that the development of Isie’s life structure was strongly influenced by a number of sociohistorical and global events. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations regarding the psychobiographical research design and methodology in future have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Smuts, Carisa
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/894 , Smuts, Isie K., 1870-1954 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Description: Psychobiographical research, with the use of psychological theory, allows us to uncover and unravel the life of an individual. This important area of research for the application of a psychological theory has, however, been under-utilized, especially in South Africa. The importance of psychobiographical case study research for the development and testing of theories of human development throughout the lifespan, has been supported by a number of academics in the field. The research subject was Sibella Margaretha (Isie) Krige. Isie (1870-1954) was married to General Jan Christiaan Smuts (1870-1950). He was a prominent South African and Commonwealth statesman, military leader, botanist and philosopher. Although much has been written on General Smuts, a psychobiography on the life of Isie had not been written yet. Isie was chosen as the research subject through purposive sampling. The study employed a qualitative psychobiographical research method, which aimed to explore and describe Isie’s psychological development in terms of Daniel Levinson’s (1996) theory of the Human Life Cycle. Collected data were analysed in accordance with Huberman and Miles’ (2000) approach. It integrated three sub-processes, namely data reduction, data display, as well as the drawing of conclusions and verification. The findings of the study indicate that Isie’s life was consistent with the pattern which Levinson (1996) identified. Isie was relatively successful in resolving the life tasks and transitional periods proposed by Levinson. The findings of the study also indicated that the development of Isie’s life structure was strongly influenced by a number of sociohistorical and global events. This research study has given a positive demonstration of the value of development theory. Furthermore, it emphasized the uniqueness of individuals in coping with the challenges of life. As a result it has opened up the possibility of perceiving people and their actions in a different way. Consequently, recommendations regarding the psychobiographical research design and methodology in future have been made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
A psychobiographical study of John Henry Newman
- Authors: Mitchell, Gregory Paul
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Newman, John Henry, 1801-1890 , Cardinals -- England -- Biography , Authors, English -- 19th century -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9981 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study, aiming to explore and describe the life of John Henry Newman (1801-1890), a theologian, priest, and cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, through the application of Erik Erikson’s theory of Psychosocial Development. Newman is a significant figure in the English-speaking Christian world and his life and thought remains of interest and importance, particularly in the fields of philosophy, theology, ecclesiology and education. Newman was beatified in 2010 and therefore this study also considers the hagiographical nature of biographical data. This study utilises a qualitative single case study approach and the subject was selected through purposive sampling based on interest value. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources to enhance validity. The data were analysed by organising and reducing information obtained regarding Newman’s life and then displaying it for discussion. The study considers Newman’s life, reconstructed from birth, through adolescence and adulthood to his death and also considers his posthumous legacy. The main themes of discussion revolve around Newman’s development of his religious identity and his life as a churchman and an academic. It considers how a psychosocially functional individual such as Newman manifests certain dystonic, maladaptive or malignant tendencies such as doubt, shame, guilt and overextension, and how these impact the formation of religious identity and the experience of God and the spiritual life. Basic trust, celibate intimacy and generativity emerged as three significant areas of importance in the Newman’s life and identity. The study highlighted the value of psychobiographical studies and of Erikson’s theory in understanding development. Recommendations for future research in this field are made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality, religious identity and psychosocial development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mitchell, Gregory Paul
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Newman, John Henry, 1801-1890 , Cardinals -- England -- Biography , Authors, English -- 19th century -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9981 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021085
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study, aiming to explore and describe the life of John Henry Newman (1801-1890), a theologian, priest, and cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, through the application of Erik Erikson’s theory of Psychosocial Development. Newman is a significant figure in the English-speaking Christian world and his life and thought remains of interest and importance, particularly in the fields of philosophy, theology, ecclesiology and education. Newman was beatified in 2010 and therefore this study also considers the hagiographical nature of biographical data. This study utilises a qualitative single case study approach and the subject was selected through purposive sampling based on interest value. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources to enhance validity. The data were analysed by organising and reducing information obtained regarding Newman’s life and then displaying it for discussion. The study considers Newman’s life, reconstructed from birth, through adolescence and adulthood to his death and also considers his posthumous legacy. The main themes of discussion revolve around Newman’s development of his religious identity and his life as a churchman and an academic. It considers how a psychosocially functional individual such as Newman manifests certain dystonic, maladaptive or malignant tendencies such as doubt, shame, guilt and overextension, and how these impact the formation of religious identity and the experience of God and the spiritual life. Basic trust, celibate intimacy and generativity emerged as three significant areas of importance in the Newman’s life and identity. The study highlighted the value of psychobiographical studies and of Erikson’s theory in understanding development. Recommendations for future research in this field are made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality, religious identity and psychosocial development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of John Winston Lennon
- Authors: Kitching, Philip Herman
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lennon, John, 1940-1980 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010847 , Lennon, John, 1940-1980 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Musicians
- Description: Psychobiography can be viewed as the re-writing of an individual’s life story previously undetected. In general it consists of a combination of two central elements: biography and psychological theory that aim to explain the particular individual’s psychological development. This particular study serves to explore the extraordinary life of renowned singer, songwriter, artist and activist, John Winston Lennon (1940-1980). The basis for this investigation will take the form of notable biographical accounts of the subject’s life, together with Austrian psychiatrist Alfred Adler’s (1938) theory of Individual Psychology, which recognizes the importance of human society for the development of individual character and the orientation of every single action and emotion in the life of a human being. Adler’s theory further explores that the main motives of human thought and behaviour are an individual’s striving for superiority and power, partly in compensation for his feeling of inferiority. The psychobiographical data collection and analysis for this research thesis will be guided by Yin’s (1994) theory of ‘analytic generalisation’, which uses a theoretical framework in selecting relevant data which develops a matrix as a descriptive framework for organizing and integrating that data, and Alexander’s (1988) analytical model which focuses on lifting out themes through principal identifiers of salience was used and applied. John Winston Lennon expressed his personal experiences and ideals through his songs and became the spokesman for his generation on modern day issues such as feminism and world peace. It is however, unfortunate that Lennon throughout his life remained a boy who felt rejected and unloved by his parents and strove to be superior in all aspects of his rich life in an attempt to acquire the love and acceptance that was not bestowed on him as a child.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kitching, Philip Herman
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lennon, John, 1940-1980 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Musicians
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010847 , Lennon, John, 1940-1980 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Musicians
- Description: Psychobiography can be viewed as the re-writing of an individual’s life story previously undetected. In general it consists of a combination of two central elements: biography and psychological theory that aim to explain the particular individual’s psychological development. This particular study serves to explore the extraordinary life of renowned singer, songwriter, artist and activist, John Winston Lennon (1940-1980). The basis for this investigation will take the form of notable biographical accounts of the subject’s life, together with Austrian psychiatrist Alfred Adler’s (1938) theory of Individual Psychology, which recognizes the importance of human society for the development of individual character and the orientation of every single action and emotion in the life of a human being. Adler’s theory further explores that the main motives of human thought and behaviour are an individual’s striving for superiority and power, partly in compensation for his feeling of inferiority. The psychobiographical data collection and analysis for this research thesis will be guided by Yin’s (1994) theory of ‘analytic generalisation’, which uses a theoretical framework in selecting relevant data which develops a matrix as a descriptive framework for organizing and integrating that data, and Alexander’s (1988) analytical model which focuses on lifting out themes through principal identifiers of salience was used and applied. John Winston Lennon expressed his personal experiences and ideals through his songs and became the spokesman for his generation on modern day issues such as feminism and world peace. It is however, unfortunate that Lennon throughout his life remained a boy who felt rejected and unloved by his parents and strove to be superior in all aspects of his rich life in an attempt to acquire the love and acceptance that was not bestowed on him as a child.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A psychobiographical study of Joseph Stalin
- Authors: Matsolo, Vuyiswa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stalin, Joseph -- 1878-1953 , Developmental psychology Self-actualization (Psychology) Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41570 , vital:36530
- Description: Joseph Stalin was the dictator of the Soviet Union from 1929 to 1953. Stalin ruled by terror and millions of people died during his term as leader. Stalin was known as an evil man, however, he was also hailed as a hero who was able to transform Russia into a major super power. Stalin died in 1953 at the age of 74, after suffering a massive stroke. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Stalin, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology and Theodore Millon’s Biopsychosocial Model of Personality to the context of his life experiences. The research design is a psychobiography, which is a single case study, and non-probability purposive sampling was used to select Stalin. The data consisted of primary and secondary data sources that described Stalin’s life experiences, and Yin’s (1994) guidelines for data collection were followed for data collection, which include using multiple sources of evidence, creating a case study database, and keeping and maintaining a reliable chain of evidence. The data was analysed in accordance to Miles and Huberman’s (1994a) model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Stalin’s striving for significance was largely influenced by the social environment and cultural context in which he lived. These factors influenced his need for perfection and superiority, which became prevalent in his behaviour within his childhood years and throughout his quest for power in the Soviet Union. Stalin presented with Adler’s active-destructive lifestyle, which aligns with Millon’s antisocial personality pattern which focuses more on meeting the needs of the self at the expense of others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Matsolo, Vuyiswa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Stalin, Joseph -- 1878-1953 , Developmental psychology Self-actualization (Psychology) Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41570 , vital:36530
- Description: Joseph Stalin was the dictator of the Soviet Union from 1929 to 1953. Stalin ruled by terror and millions of people died during his term as leader. Stalin was known as an evil man, however, he was also hailed as a hero who was able to transform Russia into a major super power. Stalin died in 1953 at the age of 74, after suffering a massive stroke. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the personality development of Stalin, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of Individual Psychology and Theodore Millon’s Biopsychosocial Model of Personality to the context of his life experiences. The research design is a psychobiography, which is a single case study, and non-probability purposive sampling was used to select Stalin. The data consisted of primary and secondary data sources that described Stalin’s life experiences, and Yin’s (1994) guidelines for data collection were followed for data collection, which include using multiple sources of evidence, creating a case study database, and keeping and maintaining a reliable chain of evidence. The data was analysed in accordance to Miles and Huberman’s (1994a) model of data analysis. The findings of the study indicated that Stalin’s striving for significance was largely influenced by the social environment and cultural context in which he lived. These factors influenced his need for perfection and superiority, which became prevalent in his behaviour within his childhood years and throughout his quest for power in the Soviet Union. Stalin presented with Adler’s active-destructive lifestyle, which aligns with Millon’s antisocial personality pattern which focuses more on meeting the needs of the self at the expense of others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A psychobiographical study of Martin Luther King Junior: an Adlerian perspective
- Authors: Twaku, Unathi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: King, Martin Luther , Adlerian psychology , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020900
- Description: Martin Luther King Junior was an advocate of non-violent social change strategies; he was a pastor, an author, the first president of the southern Christian leadership conference, a speaker, a Nobel Prize winner, and a leader. Martin Luther King junior was transformed by his deep family roots in the African American Baptist church. His formative experiences in his hometown of Atlanta were his theological studies, his varied models of religious and political leadership and his extensive network of contacts in the peace and social justice movements of his time. Although only 39 at the time of his death, Martin Luther King juniors’ life was remarkable for the ways it reflected and inspired so many of the twentieth century’s major intellectual, cultural and political developments. The primary aim of this study was to explore and describe the psychological development across the lifespan of Martin Luther King junior, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of individual psychology. Martin Luther King junior’s life was explored in this study through systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of the historic data on his life, which highlighted seven significant historical periods: (a) Childhood and adolescence (1929 – 1944), (b)The inevitable (1944 – 1948), (c) The Purpose in his Destiny (1948 – 1951), (d) Family and mission (1952 – 1959), (e) Movement against segregation (1960 – 1963), (f) History is made (1963 – 1967), and (g) Unfinished business (1968). Adler’s framework was used to recognize, convert and reconstruct his life into a coherent narrative of his psychological development throughout his life. Alexander’s guidelines for extracting salient data was utilised to ensure accurate description of Martin Luther King junior’s life. A conceptual framework that is the Adlerian Matrix was included in the study as guide in presenting the research discussion and findings in an illuminating and integrative manner. The research discussion and findings suggested that Adler’s theoretical framework considers the biopsychosocial, cultural and historic influences in Martin Luther King junior’s personality development. In taking the context into consideration, Adler’s individual psychology identified King junior with a social useful lifestyle because of his high social interest which influenced his striving for superiority. This lifestyle guided his fictional goal which was selfless and aimed at contributing to the wellbeing of others. The private logic about himself, others and the world, which is developed in early childhood, was a positive navigator for the development of his personality and lifestyle. Thus according to the Adlerian theory, King junior could positively balance the resolution of the life tasks of occupation, social and love & marriage. The study of King junior’s personality development has provided an affirmative demonstration of the value of Adler’s psychological theory to understand the process of personality development in an individual life. It has highlighted the value of studying an individual life taking his context, including early experiences, family environment and every action, into consideration to understand the uniqueness of responding to life tasks and his perceptions. Recommendations were made for future research undertakings using psychobiographical research design and methodology to reveal, illuminate and reconstruct the lives of historic personalities
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Twaku, Unathi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: King, Martin Luther , Adlerian psychology , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Developmental psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020900
- Description: Martin Luther King Junior was an advocate of non-violent social change strategies; he was a pastor, an author, the first president of the southern Christian leadership conference, a speaker, a Nobel Prize winner, and a leader. Martin Luther King junior was transformed by his deep family roots in the African American Baptist church. His formative experiences in his hometown of Atlanta were his theological studies, his varied models of religious and political leadership and his extensive network of contacts in the peace and social justice movements of his time. Although only 39 at the time of his death, Martin Luther King juniors’ life was remarkable for the ways it reflected and inspired so many of the twentieth century’s major intellectual, cultural and political developments. The primary aim of this study was to explore and describe the psychological development across the lifespan of Martin Luther King junior, by applying Alfred Adler’s theory of individual psychology. Martin Luther King junior’s life was explored in this study through systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of the historic data on his life, which highlighted seven significant historical periods: (a) Childhood and adolescence (1929 – 1944), (b)The inevitable (1944 – 1948), (c) The Purpose in his Destiny (1948 – 1951), (d) Family and mission (1952 – 1959), (e) Movement against segregation (1960 – 1963), (f) History is made (1963 – 1967), and (g) Unfinished business (1968). Adler’s framework was used to recognize, convert and reconstruct his life into a coherent narrative of his psychological development throughout his life. Alexander’s guidelines for extracting salient data was utilised to ensure accurate description of Martin Luther King junior’s life. A conceptual framework that is the Adlerian Matrix was included in the study as guide in presenting the research discussion and findings in an illuminating and integrative manner. The research discussion and findings suggested that Adler’s theoretical framework considers the biopsychosocial, cultural and historic influences in Martin Luther King junior’s personality development. In taking the context into consideration, Adler’s individual psychology identified King junior with a social useful lifestyle because of his high social interest which influenced his striving for superiority. This lifestyle guided his fictional goal which was selfless and aimed at contributing to the wellbeing of others. The private logic about himself, others and the world, which is developed in early childhood, was a positive navigator for the development of his personality and lifestyle. Thus according to the Adlerian theory, King junior could positively balance the resolution of the life tasks of occupation, social and love & marriage. The study of King junior’s personality development has provided an affirmative demonstration of the value of Adler’s psychological theory to understand the process of personality development in an individual life. It has highlighted the value of studying an individual life taking his context, including early experiences, family environment and every action, into consideration to understand the uniqueness of responding to life tasks and his perceptions. Recommendations were made for future research undertakings using psychobiographical research design and methodology to reveal, illuminate and reconstruct the lives of historic personalities
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A psychobiographical study of Maya Angelo
- Authors: De Waal, Leandra
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Angelou, Maya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46341 , vital:39569
- Description: Psychobiographies aim to gain a deeper understanding into the lives of notable or notorious individuals through the lens of a psychological theory. Thisstudy aimedto gain insight into the personality development of Maya Angelou through the useof Erikson’s Theory of PsychosocialDevelopment. The study exploresand describesher life experiences in terms of this theory, and understandsher life within her socio-historical context. Angelou is a renowned literary figure. Herjourney to becoming a writer was an arduous one, marked by great hardships from an early age. Despite early parental abandonment, childhood rape, exposure to racism, and difficulties in romantic relationships, she developed into a healthy adult who achieved much literary success and inspired individuals worldwide.Nonprobability purposive sampling was used to selectAngelou as the subjectand was madeon the basis of the researcher’s interest in Angelou’s life history.Datawas collected by triangulating multiple sources of informationand analysed using the approach developed by Miles and Huberman, which involves threesteps: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification.The main findings suggest that Angelou progressed through Erikson’s eight stages successfully, despite some delays in negotiations of crises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De Waal, Leandra
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Angelou, Maya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46341 , vital:39569
- Description: Psychobiographies aim to gain a deeper understanding into the lives of notable or notorious individuals through the lens of a psychological theory. Thisstudy aimedto gain insight into the personality development of Maya Angelou through the useof Erikson’s Theory of PsychosocialDevelopment. The study exploresand describesher life experiences in terms of this theory, and understandsher life within her socio-historical context. Angelou is a renowned literary figure. Herjourney to becoming a writer was an arduous one, marked by great hardships from an early age. Despite early parental abandonment, childhood rape, exposure to racism, and difficulties in romantic relationships, she developed into a healthy adult who achieved much literary success and inspired individuals worldwide.Nonprobability purposive sampling was used to selectAngelou as the subjectand was madeon the basis of the researcher’s interest in Angelou’s life history.Datawas collected by triangulating multiple sources of informationand analysed using the approach developed by Miles and Huberman, which involves threesteps: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification.The main findings suggest that Angelou progressed through Erikson’s eight stages successfully, despite some delays in negotiations of crises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A psychobiographical study of Ralph John Rabie
- Uys, Hendrick Michael Grobler
- Authors: Uys, Hendrick Michael Grobler
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Kerkorrel, Johannes, 1960-2002 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Rock musicians -- South Africa Biography , Afrikaners -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9874 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1366 , Kerkorrel, Johannes, 1960-2002 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Rock musicians -- South Africa Biography , Afrikaners -- Psychology
- Description: Psychobiographies use psychological theory as a paradigm within which to re-awaken an individual’s life story. The psychobiographical approach historically tended to be neglected within the South African context. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the life of Ralph John Rabie through the use of psychobiography. Ralph John Rabie (1960 – 2002) was a South African Afrikaans singer-songwriter, journalist and playwright, also known as Johannes Kerkorrel. He challenged the cultural system and the government and was arguably the most prominent member of the Alternative Afrikaans Movement until his suicide on 12 November 2002. To some he betrayed the identity of post-apartheid Afrikanerdom and to others he became an icon in the homosexual community. No existing literature to date has adopted a psychological stance on this controversial South African figure. His own writings and published material by others were utilized to illuminate his life and its many dimensions. Richard C. Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems Model (1995) was used to analyze the multiplicity and inner workings of Rabie’s personality. The influence of external systems is also discussed. The data collection and analysis were conducted according to Yin’s (1994) analytic generalization, which consists of using theoretical guidelines as a framework to select relevant data and develop a matrix as a descriptive framework for organizing and integrating the data. Alexander’s (1988) nine proposed guidelines assisted in the process of data analysis, together with the Internal Family Systems Model (1995). The findings of the study indicate that subpersonalities in different roles could be identified in Rabie’s life as described by Schwartz (1995). The different subpersonalities interacted with each other and assumed roles to protect Rabie. The findings of the study also indicated that these subpersonalities used stories to obtain power and influence within Rabie’s personality structure. The subpersonalities were successful in making Rabie influential and famous within the Afrikaans music industry and they helped Rabie change rigid Afrikaans cultural beliefs that were present within the Apartheid system. The findings further indicate how important it is for subpersonalities to work together and how a fragmented system is difficult to contain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Uys, Hendrick Michael Grobler
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Kerkorrel, Johannes, 1960-2002 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Rock musicians -- South Africa Biography , Afrikaners -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9874 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1366 , Kerkorrel, Johannes, 1960-2002 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Rock musicians -- South Africa Biography , Afrikaners -- Psychology
- Description: Psychobiographies use psychological theory as a paradigm within which to re-awaken an individual’s life story. The psychobiographical approach historically tended to be neglected within the South African context. The aim of the current study was to explore and describe the life of Ralph John Rabie through the use of psychobiography. Ralph John Rabie (1960 – 2002) was a South African Afrikaans singer-songwriter, journalist and playwright, also known as Johannes Kerkorrel. He challenged the cultural system and the government and was arguably the most prominent member of the Alternative Afrikaans Movement until his suicide on 12 November 2002. To some he betrayed the identity of post-apartheid Afrikanerdom and to others he became an icon in the homosexual community. No existing literature to date has adopted a psychological stance on this controversial South African figure. His own writings and published material by others were utilized to illuminate his life and its many dimensions. Richard C. Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems Model (1995) was used to analyze the multiplicity and inner workings of Rabie’s personality. The influence of external systems is also discussed. The data collection and analysis were conducted according to Yin’s (1994) analytic generalization, which consists of using theoretical guidelines as a framework to select relevant data and develop a matrix as a descriptive framework for organizing and integrating the data. Alexander’s (1988) nine proposed guidelines assisted in the process of data analysis, together with the Internal Family Systems Model (1995). The findings of the study indicate that subpersonalities in different roles could be identified in Rabie’s life as described by Schwartz (1995). The different subpersonalities interacted with each other and assumed roles to protect Rabie. The findings of the study also indicated that these subpersonalities used stories to obtain power and influence within Rabie’s personality structure. The subpersonalities were successful in making Rabie influential and famous within the Afrikaans music industry and they helped Rabie change rigid Afrikaans cultural beliefs that were present within the Apartheid system. The findings further indicate how important it is for subpersonalities to work together and how a fragmented system is difficult to contain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
A psychobiographical study of Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley
- Authors: Willis, Lynn Sherri
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects Marley, Bob , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13480 , vital:27209
- Description: Psychobiography is a qualitative research design used to explore and understand the life story of an individual through the lens of psychological theory. The application of theory is typically done to finished lives of well-known or enigmatic people, and covers the person’s entire lifespan. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the personality development of the Rastafarian reggae musician Bob Marley.To meet this aim the study created a comprehensive picture of Marley’s life within the particular social, economic and historical context in which he lived. Marley’s work was considered influential both during and after his life. His music is listened to by diverse groups of people, and is known internationally. Marley’s personality was explored by applying Eric Berne’s theory of Transactional Analysis (TA) to his life story. Data was collected and analyzed using a strategy consisting of three steps, namely, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. Results of the study indicated that TA is a suitable theory for creating insight into the life of this historical figure, and has led to an increased understanding of the application of this psychological theory. Lastly, the study has contributed towards increasing the number of psychobiographical studies conducted in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Willis, Lynn Sherri
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Developmental psychology , Life cycle, Human -- Psychological aspects Marley, Bob , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13480 , vital:27209
- Description: Psychobiography is a qualitative research design used to explore and understand the life story of an individual through the lens of psychological theory. The application of theory is typically done to finished lives of well-known or enigmatic people, and covers the person’s entire lifespan. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the personality development of the Rastafarian reggae musician Bob Marley.To meet this aim the study created a comprehensive picture of Marley’s life within the particular social, economic and historical context in which he lived. Marley’s work was considered influential both during and after his life. His music is listened to by diverse groups of people, and is known internationally. Marley’s personality was explored by applying Eric Berne’s theory of Transactional Analysis (TA) to his life story. Data was collected and analyzed using a strategy consisting of three steps, namely, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. Results of the study indicated that TA is a suitable theory for creating insight into the life of this historical figure, and has led to an increased understanding of the application of this psychological theory. Lastly, the study has contributed towards increasing the number of psychobiographical studies conducted in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A psychobiographical study of Steven Paul Jobs
- Authors: Moore, Noelle
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Computer engineers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9978 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021112
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the American entrepreneur and innovative co-founder of Apple Computers, Steven Paul Jobs (1955 – 2011). The psychobiographical research method qualitatively considers the lived life of an individual in an attempt to understand the psychological development in the context of applied psychological theory. A theoretical integration of Adler‘s Individual Psychology and Antonovsky‘s Sense of Coherence was utilized in the present study. This integrative approach facilitated a dynamic and holistic picture of the individual‘s functioning in illuminating not only personality but also the individual‘s social context, choice making capacity, general resistance resources and the individual‘s ‗meaning making‘ capacity in the strive towards health and superiority. Steven Paul Jobs revolutionised personal computing. Ranked as Forbes‘ seventeenth most powerful person and Man of the Year by The Financial Times in 2010, Jobs‘ contribution to modern technology is widely acknowledged and revered. To ensure the accurate description of the lived life of Steven Paul Jobs, extensive data was examined by utilizing Alexander‘s model of identifying salient themes. The study considered the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Alfred Adler and Aaron Antonovsky and the life of Steven Paul Jobs that resulted in an integrated psychological description of the subject. The findings of this study indicate that Steven Paul Jobs‘ unique context (environment and constitutional attributes) was valuable in light of the theoretical frameworks that the present study is grounded upon as it illustrated an individual‘s self-determination and capacity to exercise choice in response to life challenges. The study highlighted that the individual is not necessarily a passive bystander to his life events but rather is driven by an internal forward striving. Key concepts: Aaron Antonovsky, Alfred Adler, Apple Computers, Individual Psychology, Psychobiography, Sense of Coherence, Steven Paul Jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Moore, Noelle
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Psychology -- Biographical methods , Computer engineers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9978 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021112
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the American entrepreneur and innovative co-founder of Apple Computers, Steven Paul Jobs (1955 – 2011). The psychobiographical research method qualitatively considers the lived life of an individual in an attempt to understand the psychological development in the context of applied psychological theory. A theoretical integration of Adler‘s Individual Psychology and Antonovsky‘s Sense of Coherence was utilized in the present study. This integrative approach facilitated a dynamic and holistic picture of the individual‘s functioning in illuminating not only personality but also the individual‘s social context, choice making capacity, general resistance resources and the individual‘s ‗meaning making‘ capacity in the strive towards health and superiority. Steven Paul Jobs revolutionised personal computing. Ranked as Forbes‘ seventeenth most powerful person and Man of the Year by The Financial Times in 2010, Jobs‘ contribution to modern technology is widely acknowledged and revered. To ensure the accurate description of the lived life of Steven Paul Jobs, extensive data was examined by utilizing Alexander‘s model of identifying salient themes. The study considered the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Alfred Adler and Aaron Antonovsky and the life of Steven Paul Jobs that resulted in an integrated psychological description of the subject. The findings of this study indicate that Steven Paul Jobs‘ unique context (environment and constitutional attributes) was valuable in light of the theoretical frameworks that the present study is grounded upon as it illustrated an individual‘s self-determination and capacity to exercise choice in response to life challenges. The study highlighted that the individual is not necessarily a passive bystander to his life events but rather is driven by an internal forward striving. Key concepts: Aaron Antonovsky, Alfred Adler, Apple Computers, Individual Psychology, Psychobiography, Sense of Coherence, Steven Paul Jobs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A psychobiographical study of Theodore Robert Bundy
- Authors: McGivern, Kelly Berene
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Psychology -- United States -- Biographical methods Serial murderers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11742 , vital:26964
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study aiming to explore and describe the life of Theodore Robert Bundy, a serial killer who confessed to approximately 30 homicides committed in various states of America between 1974 and 1978. The study used Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development to examine Bundy’s life and to understand his unique character and personality development. The subject was chosen based on interest value through purposive sampling and the study utilises a qualitative single case study approach. Archival data were collected from primary and secondary sources in order to enhance the trustworthiness and credibility of the study. All materials collected and analysed, were published and publically available. Data were analysed by first organising and reducing the information obtained, and then displaying it for a discussion of Bundy’s life. Themes of discussion centred around Bundy’s lack of resolution of psychosocial crises and the development of malignancies and maladaptations which impacted negatively on his later development and identity formation. The study emphasises the importance of psychobiographical research studies and the value of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development in understanding personality development. Recommendations for future research in this field were made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality and its development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: McGivern, Kelly Berene
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Psychology -- United States -- Biographical methods Serial murderers -- United States -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11742 , vital:26964
- Description: This study is a psychobiographical study aiming to explore and describe the life of Theodore Robert Bundy, a serial killer who confessed to approximately 30 homicides committed in various states of America between 1974 and 1978. The study used Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development to examine Bundy’s life and to understand his unique character and personality development. The subject was chosen based on interest value through purposive sampling and the study utilises a qualitative single case study approach. Archival data were collected from primary and secondary sources in order to enhance the trustworthiness and credibility of the study. All materials collected and analysed, were published and publically available. Data were analysed by first organising and reducing the information obtained, and then displaying it for a discussion of Bundy’s life. Themes of discussion centred around Bundy’s lack of resolution of psychosocial crises and the development of malignancies and maladaptations which impacted negatively on his later development and identity formation. The study emphasises the importance of psychobiographical research studies and the value of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development in understanding personality development. Recommendations for future research in this field were made in the hope of further uncovering and understanding personality and its development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016