Music as a transitional object in the treatment of bulimia. National Association for Music Therapy California Symposium on Clinical Practices (1987, Costa Mesa, California)

Journal/Book: Music Therapy Perspectives. 1989; 6: 49-51.

Abstract: Describes how transitional objects and transitional phenomena relate to music therapy (MT) in the treatment of bulimia. MT with bulimic clients functions to reinforce reality contact, identify parts of the ego that are functioning, intrude on distortions of thought, and provide a safe environment for testing interpersonal behaviors. The orienting construct of music as a transitional object (D. W. Winnicott, 1953) is one approach to interrupting the binge-purge response to inner states of tension. A case example is provided of MT with a 25-yr-old bulimic female. ABSTRACT 2: This paper gives specific techniques found useful with clients suffering from bulimia. Music therapy with these clients functions to reinforce reality contact, to identify for the client parts of the ego that are functioning, to intrude on distortions of thought, and to provide a safe environment for testing interpersonal behaviors. Winnicott's theoretical principles of the use of transitional objects in therapy are discussed. Musical improvisation functions as a transitional object, and is designed to interrupt the binge/purge cycle. Both structured and unstructured improvisatory techniques are employed. Clients are asked to enter into the music when they can synchronize with the music. The author also presents a case study which is illustrative of the musical transitional process.

Note: Using Smart Source Parsing transitional objects in music therapy; bulimic females; conference presentation

Keyword(s): Transitional objects; music therapy; bulimia ; professional meetings and symposia; adulthood

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