A Case Study: A Discussion of Depression, Ambivalence, Attachment, and Culture Portrayed in the Therapeutic Environment

This paper uses object relations theory to conceptualize and manage the complexities of a home-based case that was followed for a period of six months. It discusses maternal depression in relation to the caregiver role, self-harm, and self-determination. The client's ambivalence issues are addr...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Psychoanalytic social work 2008-01, Vol.15 (2), p.83-99
Main Author: Fitton, Victoria
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Ambivalence
Attachment
Crosscultural Differences
culture
depression
Depression (Psychology)
Mothers
Parent Child Relations
Reflexivity
Self Destructive Behavior
Self Determination
Citations: Items that this one cites
Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This paper uses object relations theory to conceptualize and manage the complexities of a home-based case that was followed for a period of six months. It discusses maternal depression in relation to the caregiver role, self-harm, and self-determination. The client's ambivalence issues are addressed, with particular emphasis on transference and countertransference issues in the relationship and the use of transitional space and objects. Also discussed is the effect of maternal depression and ambivalence on mother-infant attachment, with the introduction of interaction-guidance as a treatment modality. An examination of cultural differences and the concomitant ethical implications that arose in the treatment process is provided. Finally, therapeutic implications and reflexivity are addressed.
ISSN:1522-8878
1522-9033
DOI:10.1080/15228870802072736