Autistic Phenomena and Unrepresented States: Explorations in the Emergence of Self

The capacity to create psychic representations is a developmental achievement and is essential for meaning. Unrepresented states can lead to "psychic voids" and "unrepresented states" and can contribute to the development of autism and autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). The organization of the psyche consists of psychotic, neurotic, unintegrated, and integrated areas, as well as unrepresented areas with little meaning. This implies that unrepresented and unintegrated states are universal and will exist and be encountered in all of us, offering metaphors and clues relevant to the treatment of all patients.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2023
Publisher: Phoenix Publishing House

The capacity to create psychic representations is a developmental milestone that is essential for understanding meaning and avoiding "psychic voids" and "unrepresented states" that can contribute to the development of autism and autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). Unrepresented states are also implicated in other non-autistic, non-neurotic conditions such as psychosomatic disorders, addictions, perversions, and primitive character disorders. The affects that unrepresented states produce or are associated with are often those of terror, emptiness, annihilation, and despair.

The psyche is organized into psychotic, unstructured parts; neurotic parts; integrated areas; and unrepresented areas with little meaning, as well as represented states consisting of specific ideas imbued with affect. This organization suggests that both an unstructured and a dynamic unconscious exists in all patients, to varying degrees. Consequently, the understanding and treatment of autism and ASD, where unrepresented and its consequences (e.g. defensive organizations employed to protect against annihilation anxiety and catastrophic dread) can be encountered, may offer us metaphors and clues relevant to aspects of the treatment of all patients, no matter what their dominant diagnoses may be.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practical applications of working with unrepresented states in the treatment of a wide range of clinical disorders. It is packed with theory and helpful case examples that demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in helping patients overcome their symptoms and achieve greater well-being. Whether you are a mental health professional or a patient seeking treatment, this book will provide you with valuable insights and tools for working with unrepresented states and achieving positive change in your life.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800131262