Publication Date

2015

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Envy, Klein, Melanie, Bion, Wilfred R. (Wilfred Ruprecht), 1897-1979, Theoretical

Abstract

Envy, like so much in psychoanalytic thought, occupies something of a transitional space between concept and experience. Colloquially, envy is often used to mean something similar to (but worse than) jealousy. Psychoanalytically, the concept/phenomenon/experience is far more complex, however; it is something for which there are many causes and for which there can be no material cure. In this theoretical study of psychoanalytic envy, the work of Melanie Klein and Wilfred Bion are used to develop a conceptualization of envy and formulate recommendations for clinical work with the "envious patient." Case material is used to synthesize their two approaches to practice. A Kleinian/Bionian lens may help clinicians to better understand and more effectively work with patients who are struggling to soften their shame and guilt, more fully integrate their capacities for love and hate, grieve losses and a lack of early containment, and, ultimately, build up a strong internal world from which to draw in their continued development.

Language

English

Comments

iii, 100 pages. Thesis (M.S.W.)--Smith College School for Social Work, 2015. Includes bibliographical references (pages 92-100)

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