Neuroscience of Object Relations in Health and Disorder: A Proposal for an Integrative Model

Abstract

Recent advances in the neuroscience of episodic memory provide a framework to integrate object relations theory, a psychoanalytic model of mind development, with potential neural mechanisms. Object relations are primordial cognitive-affective units of the mind derived from survival- and safety-level experiences with caretakers during phase-sensitive periods of infancy and toddlerhood. Because these are learning experiences, their neural substrate likely involves memory, here affect-enhanced episodic memory. Inaugural object relations are encoded by the hippocampus-amygdala synaptic plasticity, and systems-consolidated by medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Self- and object-mental representations, extracted from these early experiences, are at first dichotomized by contradictory affects evoked by frustrating and rewarding interactions (“partial object relations”). Such affective dichotomization appears to be genetically hardwired the amygdala. Intrinsic propensity of mPFC to form schematic frameworks for episodic memories may pilot non-conscious integration of dichotomized mental representations in neonates and infants. With the emergence of working memory in toddlers, an activated self- and object-representation of a particular valence can be juxtaposed with its memorized opposites creating a balanced cognitive-affective frame (conscious “integration of object relations”). Specific events of object relations are forgotten but nevertheless profoundly influence the mental future of the individual, acting (i) as implicit schema-affect templates that regulate attentional priorities, relevance, and preferential assimilation of new information based on past experience, and (ii) as basic units of experience that are, under normal circumstances, integrated as attractors or “focal points” for interactive self-organization of functional brain networks that underlie the mind. A failure to achieve integrated object relations is predictive of poor adult emotional and social outcomes, including personality disorder. Cognitive, cellular-, and systems-neuroscience of episodic memory appear to support key postulates of object relations theory and help elucidate neural mechanisms of psychodynamic psychotherapy. Derived through the dual prism of psychoanalysis and neuroscience, the gained insights may offer new directions to enhance mental health and improve treatment of multiple forms of psychopathology.

Intrapsychic and Interpersonal Realms in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Their Comparison with Normal Individuals: A Look at Object Relations and Anger Management

“…Some other studies, such as the study by Mahmoudi et al (2018) have not shown a difference in the perception of social support and self-compassion between patients with MS and the general population ( 28 ). Despite these differences, some neuroscience studies have confirmed that in illness and health, the intrapsychic and interpersonal realms of individuals create each other ( 1 ). The issue of communications between self and others seems to be more complex in patients with MS and more detailed explanations are needed of the effect of the disease on the basic personality traits.…”

“…Multiple sclerosis ( 1 ) is one of the most common neurological disorders and a leading cause of disability. According to the latest global atlases, about 2.8 million people in the world (35.9 per 100,000 population) have the disease, with an average age of 32 years.…”

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neuronal Anomalies inPOLGMutant Midbrain Organoids

“…This gap led to the rise of brain organoid technology-a cutting-edge in vitro paradigm emulating the sophisticated architecture and functions of the human brain [7,8]. These pioneering methodologies have harnessed the self-organizing propensities of PSCs, guiding them to mimic the early milestones of brain development [9][10][11].…”

Nicotinamide Riboside Supplementation Ameliorates Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neuronal Loss in POLG Mutant Midbrain Organoids

“…Recognizing these limitations, brain organoid technology has emerged as a revolutionary approach. It leverages the self-organizing capabilities of iPSCs, closely mimicking key milestones in early brain development (9, 10, 11, 12, 13). Emphasizing the significance of this shift towards three-dimensional (3D) modelling, several distinct organoid models have been developed, each targeting specific aspects of brain functionality and spatial organization.…”