Psychoanalytic Model Object Relations

Psychoanalytic Model (Object Relations)

The object relations concept is a variant of the psychoanalytic theory, which deviates from the idea held by Sigmund Freud that mankind is driven by aggressive and sexual drives. Instead, psychoanalytic theory puts forward the notion that man is primarily driven by a need to forge relationships with others (i.e. contact). Object relations therapists aim to aid clients in uncovering early mental pictures that can further any current problems in their associations with other people, and adapt them so as to improve interpersonal performance.

Basic Concepts in Object Relations

The word 'object' in the object relations concept does not denote inanimate things but rather, it refers to significant individuals with whom one relates -- often, one's father, mother, or a primary caregiver. This term is also sometimes employed in referring to some part of an individual (e.g., the mental depictions of the important people in life, the mother's breast, etc.).

Object relations theoreticians emphasize the significance of early familial interactions, especially the mother-baby bond, in the development of personality. Infants are believed to form mental images of self, relative to other people. These internal pictures greatly influence their interpersonal associations later on in life. As relationships lies at the heart of this theory, the bond between client and therapist is crucial to the theory's success.

The Internal Object

The focus of object relations therapy and its theoretical model is internal objects. Internal objects denote pieces of the psychic framework that are formed from an individual's experiences with key caregivers in the early phase of their life. These reproduce themselves in the individual's personality by means of internalization; the individual's personality will, thereafter, bear vestiges of those initial relationships. Internal object can neither be considered as memories nor as representations. Rather, they constitute a key element of the individual self's being. They manifest themselves in people's interactions with, and choice of, other individuals (external objects) currently in their lives. Further, they can change through associations with current external objects (for instance, the psychotherapist).

The Self

Internal objects constitute only one of the components of self. To cut a long story short, the self is made up of: (1) internal objects; (2) the traditional concept of 'ego' -- the executive mechanism responsible for modulating self-control by means of its control over sphincters, affect states, and motility, which mediates a person's relationships with the external world; and (3) components and objects of the aforementioned 'ego' that are joined by feelings (affects) matching to a child's object relationship experiences. Consequently, the 'self' denotes a mix of internal objects and ego in a dynamic and distinctive relationship comprising of character. The individual's 'personal identity' is formed, which endures and is fairly constant as he/she ages (Scharff & Scharff, 1992).

The Self in Relation to Others

The comprehensive technical phrase 'Object Relations' covers interpersonal and intra-psychic dimensions. It represents the scheme of interrelationships and interactions between different facets of self that will then be expressed within the field of existing relationships with others. Components of self, including internal objects, correspond to outer objects such that, in all relationships, personalities mutually influence one another. In other words, internal psychic frameworks and external relationships constantly interact with one another (IPI, 2016).

Who Practices Object Relations?

Psychotherapists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors may earn their certificate in the area of object relations psychotherapy from any one of the many training institutions that can be found across the nation. For instance, the 'International Institute of Object Relations Theory' (now renamed as the IPI (International Psychotherapy Institute)), offers an object relations certificate program of two years for professional workers in the area of mental healthcare. Ottawa's Object Relations Therapy Institute also certifies Object Relations psychotherapists, while in the 'Object Relations Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis', one can enroll in an introductory certificate course (duration: 1 year) in the theory and practical technique of object relations, in addition to an advanced-level program of two years.

Goals of Object Relations Therapy

The focus of object relations psychotherapy is aiding clients in identifying and dealing with shortfalls in interpersonal functioning, as well as exploring ways to improve relationships. Therapists can assist clients in therapy in understanding how object relations of childhood influence present relationships, emotions, and motivations, whilst also being a factor in any current problems they encounter (Good Therapy, 2016).