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Counselling psychology of disclosure practices

Kalra, R. (2008). Counselling psychology of disclosure practices. (Unpublished Doctoral thesis, City University London)

Abstract

This thesis comprises four sections which are as follows: a preface, a critical literature review, an empirical research study and a case study. The first section provides an introduction to the thesis. Within this section, I highlight how the evolution and construction of the research area facilitated the development of the other components within this thesis. I also illustrate how the structure of the sections within this thesis demonstrates the evolution of the research topic area. Finally, I comment upon the writing style I have adopted within this thesis.

The critical literature review explores the current status of sex offender treatment programmes within the UK, and the implications this has upon the rehabilitation of rapists. Within this review, I critically explore the literature which details the theoretical underpinnings and effectiveness of sex offender treatment programmes within prison and community settings. I argue that the rapist is a distinct type of sex offender who requires specific, tailored treatment interventions. I attempt to review whether or not the specific rehabilitative needs of the rapist are being addressed within the current status of sex offender treatment programmes.

In the empirical research study, I adopt a social constructionist epistemology which is informed by a critical realist position. I explore the discourses of unmarried second- generation South Asian women, with regard to their disclosure processes within their families and communities. I questioned four unmarried South Asian women using semi-structured interviews. The interviews were transcribed and the women’s talk was analysed by a method of discourse analysis. The analysis of the women’s talk revealed four discourses of disclosure practices: political discourse, disparity discourse, conflict discourse and discourse of individualism and collectivism. Further analysis of the emerging discourses revealed various subject positions and implications for subjectivity and practice. The research study concludes with a section detailing reflections and recommendations for practice emerging from the analysis of the women’s discourse.

The case study is a reflexive exploration of therapeutic work with a South Asian female client. In this case study, I illustrate working within a cognitive behavioural approach whilst facilitating the client’s disclosure within therapy. I also highlight how the therapeutic relationship is affected by the client’s disclosure processes.

Publication Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
Departments: Doctoral Theses
School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology
Doctoral Theses > School of Arts and Social Sciences Doctoral Theses
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