Abstract

ABSTRACT Repetition compulsion is a foundational concept in classical psychoanalytic theory. Relational theory extends our understanding of repetition compulsion by proposing the importance of the inability to feel in the face of relational severing. In this paper, we conceptualize how the model of repetition compulsion, one that has previously concerned the intrapsychic and interpersonal realms, can be extended to systems-level dynamics that occur under neoliberalism. Defunding of social programs in tandem with centering individuals as hyper-responsible for their wellbeing tasks the therapeutic dyad with responsibilities that have been structurally disavowed. A case example illustrates these points.

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