Between paranoia and creativity: candidates' experience of psychoanalytic training

Area of Science:

• Psychoanalysis
• Psychological Education
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Widespread concerns exist regarding psychoanalytic education globally.
• A recent paper suggested the British Psychoanalytical Society faces similar issues.
• Investigating candidate and recent analyst experiences is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess candidate and recent analyst perceptions of psychoanalytic training at the British Psychoanalytical Society.
• To identify specific areas of concern and appreciation within the training program.
• To contextualize findings within broader trends in psychoanalytic education.

Main Methods:

• A semistructured, anonymous questionnaire was distributed to candidates and recently qualified analysts.
• The survey achieved a 58% overall response rate.
• Response rates were 77% for candidates and 39% for recently qualified analysts.

Main Results:

• Respondents expressed concerns about certain training aspects, but these were generally balanced by positive feedback.
• A minority voiced strong criticism, indicating significant impact when training issues arise.
• The peer group is sensitive to negative training experiences of candidates.

Conclusions:

• Psychoanalytic training in the British Society elicits mixed responses, with notable concerns alongside appreciation.
• Negative training experiences have a profound effect, resonating within the candidate peer group.
• Findings inform discussions on competency-based education and the maturational challenges for candidates and trainers.