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When all is said ... a phenomenological enquiry into post-termination experience.
1dshaw@easynet.co.uk
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|July 17, 1999
Summary
This study explores post-psychoanalysis experiences, finding that self-analysis and mourning may not follow strict stages. The pre-termination phase significantly impacts how the analyst is remembered.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
- Phenomenology
Background:
- Understanding the patient's experience after psychoanalytic therapy is crucial for treatment efficacy.
- Existing literature often posits sequential stages in post-termination adjustment.
Observation:
- This study employed empirical phenomenology to investigate the post-termination experiences of individuals who completed psychoanalysis or psychotherapy.
- A small cohort of participants was interviewed to gather in-depth qualitative data.
Findings:
- While participants demonstrated capacity for self-analysis and engaged in mourning, these processes did not appear to unfold chronologically or dependently.
- The pre-termination phase was identified as critical, particularly regarding the establishment of termination and post-termination boundaries, often set by the analyst.
- Experiences during the pre-termination phase strongly influenced how the analyst was mentally represented after therapy concluded.
Implications:
- Findings challenge linear models of post-termination adjustment in psychoanalysis.
- Highlights the significant, lasting impact of the therapeutic relationship and the termination process on patient outcomes.
- Suggests that a well-managed pre-termination phase may foster more adaptive post-termination experiences.