Two models of masochism

Bibliographic Data

ID6130135
AuthorsHenrik Enckell (Private practice, Helsinki, FINLAND, corresponding author)
Year2022
Volume45
Issue1
Pages45-56
Publication date2022-01-02
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueThe Scandinavian Psychoanalytic Review (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0106-2301 • E-ISSN: 1600-0803
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/01062301.2023.2214436
OpenAlexW4377966455
LanguageEN
References cited19

In this paper, the author discusses two models of masochism. The starting point is a two-perspective theory on therapeutic action, put forward at the Anna Freud Centre. In one model, focus is on processes reflecting functions the patient has acquired (or not). In the other model, focus is on available representations. In the latter theory, one goes into the psychic material (the representations), in process or function theory, again, one concentrates on the use of the material. From these two perspectives, the author looks into masochism and the negative therapeutic reaction. In both models masochism seems to reflect a felt impossibility to accept vulnerability. The vulnerability, however, relates (in respective theory) to different realities. Three cases are used as illustrations

Action (physics) · Epistemology · Focus (optics) · Function (biology) · Impossibility · Perspective (graphical) · Psychic · Psychoanalysis · Vulnerability (computing) · Artificial Intelligence · Computer Science · Law · Medicine · Philosophy · Psychoanalysis, Philosophy, and Politics · Psychology · Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications · Violence, Religion, and Philosophy