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Psychoanalytic contributions to psychotherapy: clinical empathy
1University of Toronto, Ontario.
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne De Psychiatrie
|November 1, 1989
Summary
This study explores empathy in psychoanalysis, proposing three levels of empathic understanding in therapy. It highlights therapy as a self-correcting process striving for accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
Background:
- Empathy is a key concept differentiating classical psychoanalysis and self psychology.
- Dilemma is central to the human condition, influencing psychoanalytic perspectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconcile classical psychoanalysis and self psychology through the lens of empathy.
- To define and explore three distinct levels of empathy in therapeutic practice.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of psychoanalytic theories.
- Exploration of empathy within the patient-therapist dynamic.
Main Results:
- Both classical psychoanalysis and self psychology can be viewed as empathic.
- Three levels of empathy are identified: narrative understanding, thematic discovery, and relational pattern recognition.
Conclusions:
- Therapy is conceptualized as a self-correcting process aiming for but not achieving perfect objective accuracy.
- A nuanced understanding of empathy can bridge theoretical divides in psychoanalysis.