Basic theoretical assumptions underpinning Faimberg’s method: “Listening to listening”

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this article, the author reviews the basic theoretical assumptions that underpin Faimberg’s method of “listening to listening.” It is emphasized that these assumptions cannot be altered without radically altering the method itself. A new and complex definition of “basic assumptions” that the author proposes helps us to understand how the logic of the method can “capture” the logic of the unconscious. One of the aims of the method is to hold a clinical discussion in a group in the frame of an “as yet situation,” a basic assumption of the author (originally designed for the clinical situation) that concerns psychic temporality. It concerns the situation that has not happened … yet, up to the moment we begin to discover, with surprise, the presenter's basic assumptions when working with his patient. Special attention is given to the impact of each participant's basic assumptions on how he engages in the discussion. This constitutes the main goal of the method. The method was originally devised to overcome the tendency to listen to clinical presentations on the basis of a privileged and unique theoretical perspective (whether or not recognized as such). The “listening to listening” function on which the method is based has its origin in a clinical concept proposed by the author. On the basis of “listening to listening,” a particular kind of misunderstanding can be detected. If, instead of being regarded as an obstacle, the misunderstanding is analysed through the method in question, recognizing the misunderstanding may offer the best possible way of gaining access to the different basic assumptions in play. The co-creation of a common language is another one of the aims of the method – a language whereby it becomes possible to recognize differences, so that the recurrent temptation can be more easily overcome of creating a single way of working in psychoanalysis. It recognizes differences instead of idealizing “sameness.” Recognition of otherness is the basic theoretical assumption most valued by the originator of the method, who is also the author of this article.