Intersubjectivity in psychoanalysis: A critical review

Journal/Book: Int J Psycho-Anal. 1995; 76: 63 New Cavendish Street, London, England W1M 7RD. Inst Psycho-Analysis. 723-738.

Abstract: The intersubjective critique of the classical model's positivistic tradition is examined Classical analysis construes the core of mental life as a discrete entity that can be relatively interpretively captured as such. In contrast, the intersubjectivists construe core psychic processes as inseparable from a relational matrix. The intersubjective critique is traced to the theoretical tensions in Freud's concepts of transference/countertransference and ego development. Questions are raised whether the current intersubjective challenges actually constitute changes in clinical activity and process. Noted is the ubiquitous overlap between the intersubjective and classical models in all theories of psychoanalysis, as each seem to capture different aspects of mental functioning. Classical analysis maintains a difference between a stultifying 'idealisation' of a postitivistically-based objective orientation and a holding such a possibility as only, an 'ideal' to strive for: absolutist approaches to theory are unfounded, as the irreducibility of our subjectivity does not reduce us to total ignorance. Adopting mt intersubjective orientation does nor stop analysts from idealising 'that theory' and imposing it on the patient in an authoritarian manner. Nothing intrinsic to any theory forestalls self-aggrandisement, and answers to such problems may lie in other kinds of theoretical debates than these.

Note: Review J Dunn, 3263 Sacramento St, Suite C, San Francisco, CA 94115 USA

Keyword(s): CONSTITUTED DECENTERED SUBJECT; TRANSFERENCE; ENACTMENTS; EXPERIENCE; ANALYST; LIGHT

Zurück | Weiter