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Fragmentation and narcissism. A revaluation
The Journal of Analytical Psychology
|October 1, 1995
Summary
This study reevaluates narcissism and self-fragmentation, finding they are crucial for individuation and healthy psychological development. Understanding these concepts aids in healing narcissistic character disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
Background:
- Explores the integration of Jungian concepts of self-development and individuation with psychoanalytic theories of narcissism.
- Links Jungian ideas (including Fordham's) with Kohut's psychoanalytic concepts, focusing on narcissism and ego development.
Observation:
- Re-examines the negative connotations of 'fragmentation' and 'narcissism', proposing their positive role in individuation.
- Highlights how differing analytical emphasis on biological and ethological aspects impacts patient treatment.
Findings:
- A clinical case of early self-injury, indicative of narcissistic character disorder, also demonstrates the developmental contributions of fragmentation and narcissism.
- Reconceptualizes fragmentation as 'part-for-the-whole' and narcissism as a 'motor' for individuation.
Implications:
- Recommends analysts phenomenologically value fragmentation and narcissism for normal development and patient healing.
- Emphasizes the drive towards relationship as central to therapeutic success in addressing narcissistic pathology.