Birth to Psychic Life

Birth to Psychic Life is a book that explores and analyzes the emergence and development of the psychic life, based on clinical experience and psychoanalytical theory. It discusses the genesis of the psychic apparatus, reconstructs the development of subjectivity, and studies the relationship between mental states at the dawn of psychic life and those characteristic of psychopathology. The authors identify three psychic constellations that accompany the psychic birth and propose new names for them. The book is of interest to psychoanalysts and psychotherapists working with infants and interested in the impact of early psychic development throughout life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 412 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Birth to Psychic Life delves into the intricate tapestry of the human psyche, drawing upon extensive clinical expertise and a wealth of psychoanalytical insights. Through meticulous exploration and rigorous analysis, this comprehensive work unravels the enigmatic origins and evolution of the psychic life.

Beginning with a foundational examination of the psychic apparatus, the book reconstructs the intricate journey of subjectivity, traversing the peaks and valleys experienced by individuals from infancy to adulthood. It sheds light on the interplay between mental states at the dawn of psychic life and those that characterize psychopathology, offering a profound understanding of the complex interplay between the mind and the psyche.

Drawing upon a rich tapestry of Freudian, Kleinian, and post-Kleinian works, the book proposes insightful articulations between these diverse theoretical frameworks. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners seeking to bridge the gaps between these various schools of thought, fostering a deeper comprehension of early psychic disorders and their enduring implications.

In their quest to unravel the mysteries of psychic birth, the authors identify three psychic constellations that accompany this pivotal phase. Recognized by many, these constellations shed light on the diverse ways in which individuals navigate the intricacies of psychic development. However, in light of recent advancements in the field of subjectivity, the authors propose new and more aptly descriptive names: the auto-sensual position, the symbiotic position, and the depressive position. These revisions reflect the evolving understanding of the human psyche and offer a fresh perspective on the complex dynamics of psychic growth.

Furthermore, Birth to Psychic Life presents a plethora of novel and original proposals that expand our understanding of the psychic realm. The authors delve into the intricacies of early psychic trauma, exploring its profound impact on individuals throughout their lives. They offer practical tools and strategies for psychoanalysts and psychotherapists working with infants, emphasizing the significance of early psychic development in shaping the trajectory of an individual's psychological well-being.

This book is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about delving into the depths of the human psyche. It serves as a valuable resource for psychoanalysts, psychotherapists, researchers, and students alike, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on the complex processes of psychic growth. By exploring the origins and development of the psychic life, Birth to Psychic Life provides a roadmap for understanding the intricacies of the human mind and fostering a deeper appreciation of the human experience.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032013718