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Virtual Hand with Ambiguous Movement between the Self and Other Origin: Sense of Ownership and 'Other-Produced' Agency
Published on: October 28, 2020
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The man I am trying to be is not me
1Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|May 6, 2021
Summary
This study examines the therapeutic journey of a trans man, detailing how overcoming enactments of hiding and deception led to profound insights into connection and authenticity. The analysis resolved a therapeutic impasse, enabling deeper exploration of gender, violation, and loss.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gender Studies
- Psychoanalysis
Background:
- Explores the complex therapeutic process involving a trans man (Josh) experiencing significant life disruption post-transition.
- Highlights repetitive enactments (hiding, deceiving, mystification) causing a prolonged therapeutic impasse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the analyst's struggle with countertransference confusion and anxiety within the therapeutic relationship.
- To illuminate previously off-limits areas of the patient's experience.
- To understand how gender dynamics influenced the therapeutic impasse and its resolution.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of a psychoanalytic case study.
- Exploration of transference and countertransference dynamics.
- Focus on the resolution of enactments within the therapeutic relationship.
Main Results:
- The analyst's engagement with countertransference challenges facilitated breakthroughs.
- Resolution of enactments allowed access to a history of violation.
- The therapeutic dyad moved beyond gender-structured binds to explore deeper themes.
Conclusions:
- Therapeutic impasses can be resolved through careful attention to enactments and countertransference.
- Psychoanalytic therapy can facilitate profound self-exploration regarding identity, violation, and connection for transgender individuals.
- Understanding gender as a structuring element in therapy is crucial for addressing complex patient histories.
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