Relational models in psychoanalytic theory.

Intersubjectivity and dialecticism

“…As many have written (Bachant et al . [1995], Kernberg, Bollas), the elimination of drive from theory also may have an effect on the analyst’s engagement with unconscious process.…”

The ego revisited.

“…For example, Levy and Inderbitzin (1996) emphasized the ego's role in modulating instinctual-sexual and aggressive-discharge. Bachant et al (1995), like Gray (1986), talk about drive derivatives, but they do not identify a scientifically updated perspective on the endogenous biological principles contributing to the drivenness of the psyche, nor do they specify how a more up-to-date understanding of biology and motivation affects ego development. Busch (1995), in his influential book, has only one reference to motivation.…”

“…Rangell (1997), as with most modern conflict theorists, remains a Freudian in that his overriding clinical perspective points to the past unconscious and stresses "the psychic interior as the specific unique area of psychoanalysis, while including and not overlooking its interaction and reciprocity with all external experiential factors" (p. 473). Bachant, Lynch, and Richards (1995) point out that Freud's drive reduction model bears "little relation" to the modern conflict analyst's view of drive and of the dynamic unconscious. Outlining the contemporary perspective, they note that children are faced with a number of fundamental existential questions and calamities and must cope with immature cognitive functions as well as with psychological urges that are self-centered and genuine.…”

The trend toward convergence in psychoanalysis: Comment on the special section on structural and relational psychoanalysis and on the commentary.

“…Toward this end I suggest that the terms, dynamics, and aims of the discussion are in need of modification.The most glaring problem was that neither the structuralists nor the relationalists could recognize themselves in the renderings that have been offered by members of the other group. From the structuralist side, Sugarman (1995), Bachant et al (1995), and Busch (1995 complained that the criticisms of their point of view were, in fact, attacks on a mythical analyst that would seem to have stopped developing the theory in early 1900s. As for Requests for reprints should be sent to Daniel Hill,…”