Object Relations Theory and Therapy Overview

Projection

The act of attributing one's own repressed feelings or thoughts onto others, particularly affecting relationships.

Internal Objects

Mental images of oneself and others shaped by past interactions and expectations, influencing current relationships.

Introjected Objects

Internalized representations of significant others, such as parents, that shape an individual's self-image and expectations in relationships.

Dysfunction

Arises from unresolved family of origin issues and the projection of negative introjected objects onto others.

Therapist's Non-Directive Stance

Allows clients to lead the exploration of their thoughts and feelings, fostering insight without imposing interpretations.

Stages of Therapy

Include Engagement, Projective Identification, Confrontation, and Termination phases.

Engagement Stage

The initial stage focusing on building rapport and trust between therapist and client.

Confrontation Stage

Where clients confront repressed feelings and unresolved issues, often leading to emotional breakthroughs.

Family of Origin History

Analyzing the background and dynamics of the client's family to understand influences on current behavior.

Defensive Systems

Patterns of behavior that protect family members from emotional pain and conflict, impacting relational dynamics.

What is the main focus of the Object Relations Model?

The projection of internalized, repressed ego objects and the interpersonal view of individual and family development.

What are internal objects in the context of Object Relations?

Mental images of self and others, as well as the self in relation to others, built from experience and expectation.

What is a key aspect of how individuals relate to others according to Object Relations?

People relate to others based on expectations formed by early experiences.

What are the negative aspects of introjected objects in Object Relations?

Negative aspects of repressed, introjected early 'objects' (primarily parents) are projected onto spouses or children.

How long is therapy typically in the Object Relations Model?

Therapy is often long-term.

What is the role of the therapist in the Object Relations Model?

The therapist is non-directive, an observer, and fosters insight and understanding.

What methods do therapists use in the Object Relations Model?

Listening, observing, responding to unconscious material, interpreting, and developing insight.

What is the purpose of the Theory of Change in Object Relations?

To express repressed objects, resolve negative aspects of repressed objects, and facilitate individuation of family members.

What does 'detachment and differentiation from the bad object' refer to in Object Relations?

It refers to the process of separating oneself from negative internalized objects.

What types of assessments are used in the Object Relations Model?

Self-report, family of origin history, analyzing the defensive system of the family, and intrapsychic material.

Who are some theorists associated with the Object Relations Model?

Dicks, Fairbairn, Framo, Scharf & Scharf.

What is the significance of unresolved family of origin issues in Object Relations?

They impact current relationships and are often projected onto family members.

What does 'analyzing the defensive system of the family' involve?

It involves understanding how family members protect themselves from emotional pain and conflict.

What is the goal of fostering insight and understanding in therapy?

To help clients recognize and address their unconscious material and improve their relationships.