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Remembering a depressive primary object: memory in the dialogue between psychoanalysis and cognitive science.
Marianne Leuzinger-Bohleber1, Rolf Pfeifer
1Sigmund Freud Institut, Universität Kassel Myliusstr. 20 D-60323 Frankfurt. M.Leuzinger-Bohleber@netsurf.de
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|March 28, 2002
Summary
This study redefines memory not as stored data but as an embodied, dynamic process. Integrating subjective narrative and objective neural patterns is crucial for lasting psychic change.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
Background:
- Traditional psychoanalytic memory models rely on stored structures.
- Cognitive and neural sciences challenge these traditional notions.
- Existing memory concepts inadequately explain key phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a revised, dynamic model of memory.
- To integrate subjective and objective aspects of memory.
- To explore implications for psychoanalytic theory and practice.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical revision of memory concepts.
- Integration of cognitive and neural science perspectives.
- Analysis of extensive clinical psychoanalytic case material.
Main Results:
- Memory is reconceptualized as a theoretical construct explaining behavior via past events.
- Memory is viewed as an embodied, dynamic, interactive process, not stored structures.
- Memory encompasses both subjective (individual history) and objective (neural patterns) dimensions.
Conclusions:
- A dynamic, embodied view of memory offers a more comprehensive framework.
- Stable psychic change requires considering both narrative (subjective) and historical (objective) truth.
- This revised model is illustrated by a case of psychogenic infertility in a borderline patient.