Beta Communication and Osmosis

Datos Bibliográficos

ID21630744
AutoresCharles W Dithrich (Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California, autor de correspondencia)
Año2026
Volumen36
Número2
Páginas241-254
Fecha de publicación2026-03-04
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessNo
TipoARTICLE
RevistaPsychoanalytic Dialogues (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1048-1885 • E-ISSN: 1940-9222
EditorialInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/10481885.2026.2636504
OpenAlexW7154511359
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas2
Referencias citadas15

In this paper I consider a mode of communication occurring with beta elements and the beta screen which I refer to as beta communication. I first clarify Bion’s contradictory descriptions concerning whether beta elements and the beta screen reflect significant pathology or normal personality functioning. I then take up the function of beta elements and the beta screen in communicating sensorial and emotional experience. I examine the role of osmosis in beta communication and distinguish between beta communication and projective identification. Applying Bion’s theory of thinking to clinical material I show how the process of beta communication is distinct from its content. I extend Bion’s view that beta communication content is limited to sensory and emotional experience by offering clinical examples illustrating transmission of thought, perception, and reverie. In ending I show how beta communication enables access to deeply aesthetic variations of O through mystical experience and shared reverie

Models of communication · Personality · Advanced Energy Technologies and Civil Engineering Innovations · Chemical Synthesis and Characterization · Membrane Separation Technologies