Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2025

Observational Fear as a Model of Affective Empathy in Mice
Published on: November 22, 2024
Beyond Fear and Pity
1420 S. 17th Street Philadelphia, PA 19146-1555
Abstract:
This essay attempts to expand the traditional model of negative countertransference by giving it a Lacanian twist. The author uses theories and concepts from Freud, Winnicott, and Lacan in order to explore the affective dimension of countertransference in two cases of trans-identified patients. In the first case, the author shows that wanting to do good was counterproductive, while in the second vignette maintaining a position of neutrality allowed the author to go beyond fear and pity, which led to a dynamic resolution.
Related Concept Videos
Preparedness and Phobias
Empathy
Milgram's Obedience to Authority
Egoism and Altruism
Coping Strategies: Emotion Focused
Bullying

