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Object constancy and adult psychopathology
1Jefferson Medical College, Dept. of Psychiatry, Philadelphia, PA 19107-4192.
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|June 1, 1994
Summary
This study explores object constancy development from childhood through adulthood, identifying six adult psychopathological syndromes linked to its disturbances. It also outlines key analytic tasks for treating these conditions, extending Mahler's work.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- This paper reviews Margaret Mahler's theories on early childhood object constancy acquisition.
- It examines the evolution of object constancy through developmental phases: oedipal, latency, adolescence, and adulthood.
Observation:
- Six adult psychopathological syndromes linked to disturbed object constancy are described with clinical examples.
- These include issues with optimal distance, splitting, paranoia, 'someday' fantasies, malignant transference, and mourning difficulties.
Findings:
- The study identifies specific psychopathological syndromes arising from impaired object constancy.
- These syndromes manifest in various forms of adult psychological distress and relational difficulties.
Implications:
- The paper outlines crucial technical implications for psychoanalytic treatment of patients with disturbed object constancy.
- Key therapeutic tasks involve safeguarding the holding function, interpreting splitting, maintaining distance, discerning nonverbal cues, encouraging development, and facilitating mourning.