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Working with HIV/AIDS sufferers: "when good enough is not enough".
Duncan Cartwright1, Michael Cassidy
1School of Psychology, University of Durban-Westville. duncanc@pixie.udw.ac.za
American Journal of Psychotherapy
|July 20, 2002
Summary
This study explores the psychological trauma of HIV/AIDS diagnosis, detailing defense mechanisms and the collapse of symbolic function. It examines insight-oriented therapy
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Social Work
Background:
- Examines the intrapsychic implications of HIV/AIDS diagnosis.
- Focuses on the psychological impact and trauma precipitated by knowledge of infection.
Observation:
- Analyzes two case studies to understand the traumatizing process.
- Identifies key defensive strategies: splitting, projective dynamics, and identifications.
- Highlights the collapse of the symbolic function in patients with HIV/AIDS.
Findings:
- Therapeutic work centers on fantasies about the limitations of support systems.
- Insight-oriented therapy addresses the central organizing fantasy related to diagnosis.
- Analytical therapists face technical dilemmas in managing frame deviations, roles, interpretation, and countertransference.
Implications:
- Understanding defensive mechanisms is crucial for effective psychoanalytic treatment of HIV/AIDS.
- Therapists must navigate complex countertransference dynamics and frame issues.
- The study informs therapeutic approaches for individuals coping with life-threatening diagnoses.