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A critical review of object relations theory
1Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Object relations theory offers valuable insights for psychotherapy and understanding countertransference in psychiatry. However, it has limitations in explaining biological and cognitive influences on relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychoanalysis
- Psychology
Background:
- Object relations theory has significantly impacted general psychiatry over the last two decades.
- The theory provides a framework for understanding interpersonal dynamics and therapeutic relationships.
Observation:
- This paper reviews object relations theory, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
- Contributions include a foundation for psychotherapy in severe disorders and improved countertransference interpretation.
Findings:
- The theory offers limited explanation for how physical and cognitive factors affect object relatedness.
- It complements the biopsychosocial model but does not constitute a comprehensive psychiatric psychology.
Implications:
- Object relations theory serves as a valuable addition to drive theory and ego psychology within psychoanalysis.
- Further research may explore integrating biological and cognitive perspectives to enhance object relations theory.