Relational Psychoanalysis: An Assessment at this Time

Abstract

Relational psychoanalysis, a relatively recent turn of theory, is assessed critically at this juncture in its evolution. The jury is out as to whether its theoretical assumptions and therapeutic value will continue to expand, flourish, and provide a viable alternative to more classical psychoanalytic theories, or will it ultimately fade into an interesting theoretical footnote.Relational psychoanalysis is not a singular approach but rather is considered to be a federation of theories unified by the common belief that the basic building blocks of one's psychology are rooted in human interactions rather than in the metapsychological drives. This critique is meant to supplement, not provide additional validation for other critiques that have been written to date. The concerns raised are both major and minor and apply to relational psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic theory broadly defined. Issues discussed include the hubristic tendency of psychoanalysts of all stripes to minimize the extent of the unknown in our research and clinical investigations. The chapter also critiques the explanatory value of the concept of co-construction, a standard bearer adhered to tenaciously by many relational analysts. Additionally, it argues for the use of a more scientific hypothetico-deductive definition of validity, greater lucidity in writing styles, and finally, casts a glance into the future.