On the impact of words: interpretation, empathy and affect regulation

Abstract

This paper offers a contribution towards furthering our understanding of a theme more usually associated with the Freudian tradition, namely the role and function of words as action, particularly in relation to the representational process and its somatic roots. Some reference to neuroscience research will be offered in this respect. It also considers the value of differentiating Empathy from Empathism, as defined by the Italian psychoanalyst Stefano Bolognini who distinguishes informing complementary countertransference from states of over-concordance. Two analytic sessions taken from the intensive analysis of a deeply deprived late-latency child showing violent behaviour are provided with the aim of illustrating the application of these concepts. It is argued that, given the same elaboration of the countertransference and the adequate empathic position on the part of the analyst, the difference in the outcome of the interpretation was made by the specific use of words-in this case the use or not of the personal pronoun-in the two sessions. As the case material is taken from the clinical work of a supervisee, some elements regarding the supervisory situation are also discussed in the paper.

Reframing Motherhood within a Jungian Approach to Snow White: A Research Case Study Using Guided Imagery and Music (GIM)

“…Archetypal patterns may occur in fragmented form, and the basic core elements of mythologems (or themes) can form part of larger mythic narratives as the building blocks of the underpinning structures, as seen in fairy tales and other myths [37,43], relating to emotionally charged ideas or images within a complex. The actual interpretation of archetypal client material is shaped by language in the form of the words used by clients to express themselves with both intentionality and action [55]. Similarly, Bettelheim sees fairytales as a more gentle way of approaching maturation and psychological growth compared to myths [41], and "cultural symbols" are seen as intermediate between personal and universal symbols [56].…”

Introduction to three clinical papers

“…Their contributions are influenced by developmental and neurological research and, equally, are informed by analytic experience. These include pieces by Astor (), Bisagni (), Colman (2013a and 2013b), Connolly (), Knox (), Meredith‐Owen () and Urban (). The three clinical papers in this issue continue this discussion.…”