Signe du miroir et adolescence : entre normal et pathologique

Abstract

ObjectivesDuring adolescence, girls and boys undergo profound bodily and psychic changes, which upset their relationship with themselves as well as with others. Even though chaotic body changes promise many advantages, they also cause anxieties because of the fragile nature of body image and identity. Due to narcissistic and object-relation transformations, adolescents may seek comfort in contemplating themselves in the mirror. The aim of this article is to explore the (psychic?) functions of the mirror sign, considered a normal and transitional symptom in adolescents except when bearing witness to a psychotic condition. MethodThe method is the clinical case study between two adolescent girls presenting an important mirror sign. The comparison leads to admit the idea of a continuum between normal and pathological mirror sign. ResultIf mirror sign can be a psychotic symptom, it also can be a normal narcissistic aid during this period of vulnerability. DiscussionMirror sign does not have to automatically be considered a schizophrenic symptom. One symptom can hide many psychic meanings and functions depending on the quality of narcissistic resources. ConclusionDepersonalization and inquiring admiration of ones own mirror image can too quickly be assigned to schizophrenia. Two case studies of adolescent girls with mirror sign underline its dynamic sense. In Isis's case, the mirror sign helps her to cope with the transformation of narcissism during adolescence, while in Flore's it characterizes a psychotic disorganization.