1. Object Relations Theory
Seeks to understand the interaction between intrapsychic dynamics and interpersonal relationships
Melanie Klein ( )
Proposed that drives are psychological forces that seek people as their objects
Splitting

2. Object Relations Theory
Margaret Mahler ( )
Separation and individuation by which child emerges from symbolic fusion with mother and develops individual characteristics
Sequence of stages in developing individuation
Normal autism and normal symbiosis
Differentiation
Practicing
Rapprochement
Consolidation

3. Object Relations Theory
Heinz Kohut ( )
Self theory suggests that children need to have their talk and accomplishments acknowledged
Nuclear self and autonomous self
Narcissistic character disorders occur when individuals fail to develop independent sense of self

4. emphasized the process of
development of the self
-in caring for infants’ physical and
psychological needs, adults or self-
objects treat them as if they had a
sense of self

5. -Self is the “center of the individual’s
psychological universe”
-Early self is characterized by two
narcissistic needs:
-To exhibit the grandiose self
-To acquire an idealized image
of parents

6. Personal Experiences Objects of attachment in your childhood
What things did you form an attachment to as a child? Try to list three of them.
What purpose did these objects serve in your life?
Why did you ascribe such value to them?
Do you still tend to form attachments to things today? If so, do you feel that these objects are serving the same purposes and needs as when you were a child?