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Quantitative research on the primary process: method and findings.

Robert R Holt1

  • 1New York University, Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Psychology, New York, USA. Bobholt@capecod.net

Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association
|September 11, 2002
PubMed
Summary
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Psychoanalytic theory of thinking can be scientifically measured. Adaptive regression, a key indicator, predicts creativity, psychotherapy success, and better coping with altered states of consciousness.

Area of Science:

  • Psychoanalytic theory
  • Cognitive psychology
  • Psychopathology

Background:

  • Sigmund Freud's concept of primary process thinking, though defined metapsychologically, offered observational details for empirical study.
  • Existing psychoanalytic theory lacked objective measures for primary process manifestations in verbal texts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and validate an objective scoring system for primary process manifestations in verbal texts.
  • To empirically test propositions derived from the psychoanalytic theory of thinking, particularly concerning adaptive and maladaptive regression.

Main Methods:

  • Development of a reliable scoring system to measure primary process in Rorschach responses, dreams, TAT stories, and free associations.
  • Empirical testing of hypotheses regarding the relationship between adaptive regression and psychological functioning.

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Main Results:

  • A validated index for adaptive versus maladaptive regression was established.
  • High scores on adaptive regression correlate with better sensory deprivation tolerance, comfortable entry into altered states of consciousness, and higher artistic creativity.
  • Schizophrenia is associated with extreme maladaptive regression; adaptive regression predicts psychotherapy success and improvement with treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Psychoanalytic theory of thinking is amenable to scientific investigation and empirical validation.
  • Adaptive regression is a crucial construct predicting diverse aspects of psychological health and functioning.
  • The research refutes claims that psychoanalysis cannot be a science.