Introduction to Object Relations Group Psychotherapy

Abstract

The author shows how object relations group therapy focuses on primitive defense mechanisms that shape the group-entity image or "basic assumptions group." Such primitive defense mechanisms as splitting, projective identification, omnipotent denial, projection, and introjection are the mental resources to protect the endangered self and the threatened objects from the fantasized imminent destruction. Object relations group psychotherapy addresses those defenses and the underlying psychotic anxieties, offering members opportunities to search for other ways to respond to their primitive fears. The author introduces two extensive clinical vignettes to illustrate how object relations group methods are different from other group-centered psychoanalytic techniques. He concludes by commenting on future theoretical refinements and on the problems in the professional practice of this modality.

A model of time-limited group therapy for men: Its use with recovering addicts

“…Among other models of group therapy for treating adult populations in general are psychodynamic/psychoanalytic models (e.g., Rutan & Stone, 1984), group-as-a-whole theory (Agazarian, 1990), and object-relations/group analytic models (Ganzarian, 1989). Also, feminists have developed group models for treating women (Brody, 1987).…”

The making of a group psychotherapist

“…For group therapists, it is also necessary to be a group patient. Ganzerain (1989) stresses the importance of personal group experience because in group therapy,"... narcissistic disturbances and problems of power are more deeply explored than in individual therapy. He recalls his own • experience involving intense sibling rivalries and struggles overpower and narcissism, reality and fantasy, and dependency and hostility.…”

The negative as potential prognostic marker of outcome in psychotherapy

“…In this sense, denial may be part of someone's ordinary psychology but is particularly evident in, for example, bereavement (Mittag, 1992), stress and trauma (Allodi, 1991; Fischman, 1998; Horowitz, 1986; Mohta, Sethi, Tyagi, & Mohta, 2003), anorexia nervosa (Lunn, 1990), substance dependence (Galanter, 1993; Levy, 1993), bipolar disorder (Graves, 1993), schizophrenia (Weiden & Havens, 1994), and chronic pain (Monsen & Havik, 2001). Generally, psychological denial in psychotherapy is considered to be an impediment to progress and eventually outcome, notwithstanding the protective function it may have (Coons, 1986; Galanter, 1993; Ganzarain, 1992; Graves, 1993; Levy, 1993; Olbrich, Cicholas, & Klenke‐Bossek, 1998; Weiden & Havens, 1994).…”