The Theory of Object Relations - 4032 Words

OTTO KERNBERG THE THEORY OF OBJECT RELATIONS Kernberg generally defines object relations theory as the psychoanalytic study of intrapersonal relations and how intrapsychic structures grow from internalized past relationships with others. Broadly, object relations theory could refer to a general theory of the structures of the mind influenced by interpersonal experiences. More narrowly, object relations theory is a more circumspect approach within psychoanalysis, stressing the construction of structures from internal objects – that is, self-representations linked with object-representations. I. STRUCTURE: Object An Object is a mental image of a person, a mental image colored with feelings. Kernberg’s work examines the†¦show more content†¦The ego organizing at this stage results in a consolidation of ego structures so that the child has a sense of the continuity of the self, the self being the self-image that is organized from introjections and identifications. At this stage, internalized object relations, according to Kernberg, are also organized into the representational world, which internally represents the external world. Identity formation means that early primitive identifications are replaced overtime by selective identifications in which only those aspects of the object relation that are in harmony with individual identity formation are internalized. These partial identification are of people who are loved and admired in a realistic way. III. DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES Kernberg believes that internal object relations develop into structures of id, ego and superego. Kernberg also views structure formation as a series of developmental stages. Failures in normal development can result in various forms of mental illness or psychopathology. Stage 1 The earliest stage of development covers the first month of life. Very little occurs during this period that influences the building up of personality structures. Then begins the gradual formation of undifferentiated self-representations and object-representations. Undifferentiated means that the self-representations and object-representations are fused withShow MoreRelatedAspects Of Object Relations Theory Essay1489 Words   |  6 Pagesto be examining all aspects of Object-Relations Theory. I am also going to be explaining the shortcomings of this theory. Presenting evidence that proves this theory to be strong and relevant to adolescent development into adulthood. Object Relations Theory is a theory that was developed from a therapist client relationship this theory examines the interpersonal relationships that you have and how they shape you into an adult thinker. (Scharff, D.E. 1992). This theory reflects the care that the motherRead MoreObject Relations Theory : A Theory Of Relationships1310 Words   |  6 PagesObject Relations Two Major Assumptions: Object relations theory is a theory of relationships between people particularly within a family believing that humans have a need to connect with others. More so, expressing a belief that we are driven to form relationships with others and that failure to do so successfully leads to later problems. This theory has deepened our understanding of humans and their relationships, as well as transformed social policies for example children are placed in foster homesRead MoreObject Relations Theory Essay1465 Words   |  6 PagesOBJECT RELATIONS THEORIES AND SELF PSYCHOLOGY Object Relations and Self Psychology Object relations refers to interpersonal relations 2. Object refers to that which will satisfy a need. Significant person or thing that is target of anothers feelings (drives). 3. 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