Abjection and Relational Cruelty

Abstract

Expressions of cruelty may result from an abject condition that develops in response to the marasmic void following the loss of an anaclitic object and its replacement with a malevolent one. The abject state disrupts identity, self organization, moral development and the integrity of existence. In the absence of we bonding, the disordered self fails to acquire a sense of the humanity of others, and remains in the role of me, the victim of others' action. The victim role enhances the sense of isolation resulting from a lack of ownership of one's actions. In the absence of benevolent attachments and adequate moral structures, the abject individual resorts to corrupt, perverse and cruel behaviours as a way of relieving psychic pain. In the course of therapy the underlying marasmic condition emerges. Therapy involves exposing the marasmus to the grief work necessary for the inadequate self structures to mature, and the rebuilding of moral structures that have impaired social bonding.