Object Relations Therapy

Paper Summary:

This paper contends that many clinical skills using object relations therapy, which previously were only employed with one-on-one individual sessions, or couples in session, can in fact transfer to family work. The paper states that the training that professionals receive through their work with individuals is the single greatest asset for family work. The paper shows several approaches to - and philosophies toward - object relations therapy, all of which can seamlessly, logically be applied to family object relations therapy as well.

Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Object Relations - A Model for Solving Human Conflict
What is Object Relations Therapy and Why does it Work for Families?
Ronald Fairbairn's Explanation of Object Relations
The Psychological Birth of the Human Infant: Symbiosis and Individuation
One Therapist's 8-Step Model for Employing Object Relations Theory
A Therapeutic Object Relations Technique for Histrionic-Obsessive Family Partners
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The general framework of object relations theory provides researchers and therapists "with the means for understanding the earliest developmental phases of childhood," according to Samuel Slipp (Object Relations: A Dynamic Bridge Between Individual and Family Treatment). And further, object relations "studies the attachment and differentiation from others," which is of value not merely for the individual, but for the family, and the social interaction that is part of individuals in families, Slipp continues (3-4). Slipp's book takes the point of view that until recently, object relations theory has only been applied on individuals, but that now there is a "broadening" of focus to apply its concepts to "family studies." These family studies using object relations seek "pathogenic factors in the family" that influence the patient. Slipp notes that "object relations" is "an unfortunate choice" of terms (41), because the word "object" sounds too mechanical and "dehumanized.""

More papers on Object Relations Therapy:

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• Essay # 62502 : "Approaches in Addiction Therapy"

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