The use of Transitional Objects (TO) by adolescents is of increasing interest because of the predominance of object relations theory and the growing interest in the borderline patient. Authors interviewed 6 female patients (17-19) about their use of a stuffed animal. They were asked to describe its qualities, their use and communication with it, and• to make up a story about it. The TO was described as soothing, loving, always available, always listens; it was given by a significant relative and symbolized union with them. The TO in adolescence fulfills the same needs as in fancy, but can now be expressed in language. The TO for these patients became endowed with the qualities they lacked and took on the characteristics of their own idealized object relat•ionship, much as a healthy person receives self-nurturance by the internationalization of a good mothering object.
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