How may we explore the ''theory of mind'' with schizophrenics? Pulsional intentionality and development.

Author(s): Henry, J. M., MaurelRaymondet, M., Azorin, J. M.

Journal/Book: Evol Psychiatr. 1997; 62: 15 Rue Gossin, 92543 Montrouge Cedex, France. Dunod. 315-326.

Abstract: The critique of a recent article by Frith and Corcoran allows us to raise the question of the paradigm of the theory of mind in the understanding of autism and schizophrenia. This paradigm can also be found, outside of all modular theories of mind, amidst phenomenological psychiatrists who describe ''disorders of common sense'' in schizophrenia. In clinical terms the exploration of the theory of mind in schizophrenics cannot be limited to epistemic states. The discretion of schizophrenic syndromes, particularly the possible identification of a syndrome of pure passivity, outside of all paranoid or incoherent elements, raises the question of the axioms pertaining to the theories of mind, among these axioms obviously one must come to terms with those which suppose an epistemic or cognitive relationship with emotional or carnal desire, intentionality as directed towards worldly objects is not comparable to that directed towards objects that have an intentional structure, i.e, other persons. The authors attempt to link these questions to the prejudices of: (a) the mentalist conception of intentionality based on a description of the physical world states; (b) the modular conception of mind based on the principle of identity; (c) a conception based on representation. The authors insist both on identity and dualism that the husserlian notion of intentionality presupposes. The idea of movement of signification and the intimate living flux of consciousness (pulsional intentionality) render explicit is in effect essential to account for the progressive modification of mental states by themselves, this only fan explicate clinical phenomena like hallucinations. This possibility of modification is finally linked to a narrative conception of mental phenomena thus raising the question of development.

Note: Article Naudin J, Chu Ste Marguerite, Serv Pr Azorin, Psychiat Serv, 270 Blvd Ste Marguerite, F-13009 Marseille, FRANCE

Keyword(s): theory of the spirit; common sense; schizophrenia; intentionality; drive; affects; development; KNOWLEDGE

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