Kleinian Theory

Synopsis

The purpose of the Whurr series in Psychoanalysis edited by Peter Fonagy and Mary Target of University College London, is to publish clinical and research based texts of academic excellence in the field. Each title makes a significant contribution and the series is open-ended. The readership is academic and graduate students in psychoanalysis, together with clinical practitioners, in Europe, North America and indeed worldwide. This book comprises an introduction to major psychoanalytical concepts in Kleinian theory starting with the ideas formulated by Melanie Klein and extending them to those developed by her main followers. There are chapters focusing on the Psychoanalytic play technique, unconscious phantasy, paranoid-schizoid and depressive positions,envy and gratitude, oedipus complex, projective identification, internal objects, symbolisation, models of the mind, containment and transference. Emphasis has been placed on clarity and there is ample illustration of central concepts with clinical examples. Its chapters have been written by leading psychoanalysts: David Bell, Jill Boswell, Ronald Britton, Catalina Bronstein, Marco Chiesa, Betty Joseph, Ruth Riesemberg Malcolm, Hanna Segal, Elizabeth Bott Spillius, Priscilla Roth and Jane Temperley. The book will be useful to students of Psychology, Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychoanalysis as well as to specialists who want to consolidate their knowledge.

Summary

Chapter 1: Melanie Klein: An Introduction

* Summary: Introduces Melanie Klein's life and theory of psychoanalysis. Explores her emphasis on unconscious processes, especially early childhood experiences.
* Example: Klein's observation that playing with dolls and toys can reveal children's unconscious fantasies and anxieties.

Chapter 2: The Paranoid-Schizoid Position

* Summary: Describes the first stage of Klein's theory, where infants experience their world as split into "good" and "bad" objects. This leads to feelings of paranoia and persecution.
* Example: A child who sees their mother as both loving and angry may project these feelings onto external objects, such as toys or people.

Chapter 3: The Depressive Position

* Summary: Describes the second stage of Klein's theory, where infants begin to perceive their caregivers as whole objects. This leads to feelings of guilt and sadness over any perceived damage they may have caused.
* Example: A child who has bitten their mother may feel guilt and sadness, recognizing that they have harmed someone they love.

Chapter 4: Projective Identification

* Summary: Explains Klein's concept of projective identification, where individuals unconsciously project their own emotions and impulses onto others. This can be a defensive mechanism or a form of communication.
* Example: A child who feels aggressive may project their aggression onto a toy, which they then punish or destroy.

Chapter 5: The Death Instinct

* Summary: Discusses Klein's controversial concept of the death instinct, which she believed is an innate drive towards destruction and chaos.
* Example: Klein observed that children can experience a desire to destroy their toys or harm themselves, which she interpreted as evidence of the death instinct.

Chapter 6: Kleinian Theory and Contemporary Practice

* Summary: Explores the applications of Kleinian theory in contemporary psychoanalysis, including its impact on understanding borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression.
* Example: Kleinian therapists may use play therapy to help children express their unconscious fantasies and resolve their early conflicts.

Chapter 7: Criticisms and Controversies

* Summary: Discusses criticisms of Kleinian theory, such as its emphasis on aggression and the potential for misinterpreting children's play.
* Example: Critics argue that Klein's focus on unconscious fantasies may lead to therapists making inaccurate interpretations about children's experiences.

Chapter 8: Legacy and Influence

* Summary: Examines the significant influence of Kleinian theory on psychoanalysis and psychotherapy. Explores its contributions to understanding early childhood development and the role of unconscious processes.
* Example: Kleinian theory has influenced the development of other psychoanalytic theories, such as those of D.W. Winnicott and John Bowlby.