Abstract
Abstract An existential reading of the phenomenon of resistance is presented, drawing on the descriptive data presented in Freud's case study of Elisabeth von R. The article presents the author's existential‐phenomenological orientation and reviews historical perspectives on the psychoanalytic concept of resistance. A consideration of the existential significance of one situated instance of resistance is then presented, disclosing it as an asylum for carrying out an ambivalent relationship to disenfranchised possibilities for being in the world. In dialogue with Freud's case, the author presents an etymological reflection on the meaning of the term resistance, exposing three fundamental characteristics of resistance (standing, against, and again) and suggesting implications for the conduct of humanistically oriented psychotherapy.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
