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Reflection in psychoanalysis: on symbols and metaphors
1henrik.enckell@kolumbus.fi
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|October 20, 2010
Summary
Psychoanalysis uses two reflection models: archaeology and teleology. This study differentiates symbols (archaeology) from metaphors (teleology) to enhance understanding of self-retrieval in psychoanalytic reflection.
Area of Science:
- Psychoanalysis
- Psychology
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Psychoanalysis involves reflection to aid self-retrieval.
- Human symbolization products form the basis of this reflection.
- Two primary models of reflection exist: archaeological (past-oriented) and teleological (future-oriented).
Observation:
- The study examines symbolization within the archaeological/teleological framework.
- It investigates the distinct roles of 'symbol' and 'metaphor' in psychoanalytic reflection.
- Both archaeological and teleological models are prevalent in psychoanalytic theory and practice.
Findings:
- 'Symbol' is conceptually linked to the archaeological model of psychoanalytic reflection.
- 'Metaphor' is associated with a teleological conception, focusing on evolving meaning.
- The paper delineates distinct archaeological and teleological models within psychoanalysis.
Implications:
- Understanding the symbol/metaphor distinction clarifies psychoanalytic reflection processes.
- This framework offers a novel perspective on self-retrieval in psychoanalysis.
- The findings contribute to theoretical models of psychoanalytic interpretation and therapeutic goals.
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