Pastoraat aan die afgetrede egpaar deur kanker geaffekteer: 'n narratiewe benadering

[摘要] English: A diagnosis of cancer is shattering news. It is imbedded in negative socialdiscourses like suffering and has far-reaching implications for those affectedby it.Couples who have reached the unique life-stage of retirement, are affected ina specific way by a diagnosis of cancer. Not only are the so-called goldenyears in jeopardy, but also the positive opportunities associated with this lifestage.In view of the apparent lack of pastoral models to cope with this phenomenon, this study will seek a workable model by which the retired couple affected bycancer can be counselled.The narrative approach to therapy has attracted a great deal of attention intherapeutic circles during recent years. It will therefore be used within theframework of this research. It will, however, be used within the diaconiologicalepistemology and not within the context of its original epistemological roots.Linked to a qualitative approach, this study will be descriptive and exploratoryin nature while conducting therapy with a retired couple affected by cancer. Asqualitative research is a form of participatory research, it makes the descriptionof the pastoral-therapeutic process possible.At the basis of this narrative pastoral activity lie Biblical principles as thediaconiological epistemology perceives the Bible as being normative forpastoral therapy. When the life-goals of man are viewed within the light ofScripture, the radical nature of cancer becomes apparent. Scripture alsoprovides valuable insight as to what the goals of therapy should be within thisstudy.As the diaconiological epistemology acknowledges and make use of metatheoreticalinsights, basic theoretical insights are drawn from disciplines suchas psychology, sociology and systems theory. In this manner a clearerunderstanding of the retired couple is achieved.This study serves the community by giving a retired couple affected by cancerthe opportunity to tell their problem-saturated story. With the narrativeapproach as strategy the pastoral process gives them a chance to tell theirstory in a reflective manner. In doing so, the negative discourses of cancer canbe heard. However, it also offers them the opportunity to recall the times thatthey coped well with cancer and in doing so, reminds them that a full life ispossible in spite of a serious illness. The sustenance of God and his HolyWord also becomes apparent and in this manner the transforming effect ofpastoral therapy comes to the fore.This study also serves the reformed pastoral therapy as it utilises acontemporary pastoral approach within a diaconiological epistemology.It shows that the narrative approach is valuable as a model by which theretired couple affected by cancer can be counselled and helped to lead ameaningful life amidst an existential crisis.

[发布机构] University of the Free State