Self Psychology and Its Contributions to Psychoanalysis

Abstract

Abstract A schematic overview of the theory and practice of self psychology is presented with a particular focus on what the author believes to be the most important contributions to psychoanalysis. It is recognized that self psychology, as with all psychoanalytic approaches, is an evolving and non-unitary theory. Fundamental features of self psychology are: The empathic mode of observation, that is, to listen and understand from within the vantage point of the patient, is used consistently. Strivings to develop and regulate a positive cohesive sense of self is posited to be the overriding motivation. Unique to each person are pre-wired “givens” which are included in the concept of the nuclear self. Selfobject needs are fundamental and refer to the use of the object for the development and regulation of a positive sense of self. Selfobject needs include mirroring (acknowledgement and affirmation), idealizing (protection, safety, and admired qualities), and twinship (a feeling of essential likeness, of sha...